Five Point Five Brewing Co

L to R Above: Mark Bella, Michelle Bella Legaspi, Joe Bella, Angela Chagnon, Jeremy Montemagni, Melissa Bella Montemagni, Ted Chagnon

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Five Point Five Brewing Co is a family business known for its handcrafted beer and small neighborhood vibe. Siblings Michelle Bella Legaspi, Melissa Bella Montemagni, Joe Bella and Mark Bella run the brewery along with Melissa’s husband, Jeremy Montemagni—who has been brewing since the 1990s—and his sister and brother-in-law, Angela Chagnon and Ted Chagnon. The team opened the doors of Five Point Five Brewing Co last summer.

What inspired you to open a brewery? 

The love of family and building something together inspired us to go into business together. We have been successful in our individual careers but have always dreamed about doing something together. We have enjoyed Jeremy’s beer for years and knew that this was the project we believed in and wanted to get behind. We have created a place to come together, catch up,and enjoy great beer.

Speak about the importance of community to your business.

We understand the close-knit community that is El Segundo, and we wanted to make sure that it wasn’t just the city we have our business in. We set out to provide a community space that locals and non-locals alike could feel connected to. Even our name, Five Point Five, is a callout to El Segundo’s square mileage of 5.5. It is a constant reminder to us to always keep the community in mind. We prioritize supporting local businesses and the school district through events and sponsorships. The community has been a tremendous support to us, and we will continue to look for ways to have a positive impact.

How is your company leading the way with women in positions of authority?

The craft beer industry is typically a male-dominated space. This is often reflected in the masculine taprooms within breweries. We provide a more neutral space for our patrons that is both functional and comfortable. Women love beer too!

 Tell us about your team. 

We are truly a family-owned and operated business! We all firmly believe in hard work and have definitely put in the sweat equity since our opening. You will often find one of us behind the bar, as well as our kids helping out in any way they can. The people we hire quickly become part of the family, and we strive to support them and make sure they feel valued.

Photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro