8 Craft Breweries in Austin You Need to Visit
Top Spots for Beer Enthusiasts
Austin, Texas has earned a stellar reputation for its vibrant craft beer scene, making it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city's breweries showcase a diverse range of flavors and styles, reflecting both traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques. Austin's craft breweries offer an authentic taste of the local culture and community, with many featuring unique taproom experiences and seasonal beers that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more.
Visitors to Austin are in for a treat, as the city's craft breweries not only produce exceptional beer but also create inviting spaces for people to gather and enjoy. From industrial settings in East Austin to scenic venues in West Austin, there's a perfect brewery experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or someone new to the craft beer world, exploring these breweries promises an unforgettable journey through Austin's dynamic beer landscape.
1) Austin Beerworks
Austin Beerworks stands out as a local favorite in the craft brewing scene. Known for its distinctive beers, this brewery has garnered awards and high praise for its innovative brews.
Located on the north side of the city, Austin Beerworks offers a range of beers that cater to various tastes. From hop-heavy IPAs to smooth lagers, there's something for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy the spacious taproom, which is perfect for gatherings. The brewery also frequently hosts events, enhancing the overall experience with live music and local food trucks.
For a must-try, consider the 'Peacemaker', a light and crisp extra pale ale, or their well-loved 'Flavor Country' dry-hopped pale ale.
Austin Beerworks Address: 3009 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
Phone: (512) 821-2494
Website: austinbeerworks.com
2) Jester King Brewery
Jester King Brewery is nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country on the outskirts of Austin. It's known for its authentic farmhouse brewing techniques. They specialize in wild ales and spontaneously fermented beers, offering unique flavors tied to their location.
The brewery spans 41 acres, combining a brewery, pizzeria, and even a goat ranch. This makes for a one-of-a-kind experience where guests can enjoy fine food, drinks, and the serene outdoors.
Using wild yeast from their own farm, no two batches of beer at Jester King are ever the same. This commitment to natural processes ensures a distinct taste profile in every brew.
Jester King is also open seven days a week. Visitors can enjoy pizza, beer, and even take some beer to go.
Visit them and explore their wide range of beers crafted with time, patience, and unique fermentation techniques.
Contact Details:
Address: 13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
Website: jesterkingbrewery.com
3) Lazarus Brewing Company
Lazarus Brewing Company is a unique brewpub located in the heart of East Austin. Known for its distinctive approach, it was founded by practicing pastor Christian Cryder and his wife Marilyn. This brewery blends a cozy atmosphere with an eclectic mix of beverages, offering not just craft beers but also coffee and tacos.
The brewery operates out of two locations - one on the famous 6th Street at 1902 E 6th St, and the other on Airport Blvd. The original location on 6th Street features a funky interior that reflects its vibrant neighborhood. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy great beer in a laid-back setting.
Lazarus Brewing Co. prides itself on crafting award-winning beers. Their selection ranges from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, ensuring there’s something for every palate. They also stand out for their community-oriented vibe, often hosting events that bring people together.
For those interested in visiting:
Contact Details:
Address: 1902 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 394-7620
Website: lazarusbrewing.com
This establishment encapsulates the spirit of Austin’s craft beer scene, making it a must-visit for any beer enthusiast.
4) St. Elmo Brewing Company
St. Elmo Brewing Company is a well-loved brewery located in South Austin. Founded by Tim Bullock and Bryan Winslow in 2016, it aims to offer exceptional beer experiences. The brewery is known for its wide variety of beer styles, catering to both casual drinkers and beer aficionados.
The brewery features a welcoming beer garden that’s perfect for families and friends to gather. It’s dog-friendly, and there’s even live music to create a lively atmosphere. For those looking to pair their drinks with food, the Soursop food truck is parked on-site.
St. Elmo Brewing Company offers to-go beer options. They also host weekly trivia nights, adding an extra layer of fun to the visit. Open Wednesday through Sunday, it’s an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy quality beer.
Contact details, address, and website:
Address: 440 E St Elmo Rd, Unit G2, Austin, TX 78745
Phone: +1 737-300-1965
Website: stelmobrewing.com
5) Blue Owl Brewing
Located in the heart of East Austin, Blue Owl Brewing is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. This brewery specializes in sour beers, making it one of the first all-sour breweries in the region. Their innovative approach has made them a trailblazer in the craft beer scene.
Blue Owl Brewing offers a range of beers from mainstays to specialty brews. Patrons can enjoy draft pours, traditional flights, and unique tasting experiences. The brewery is known for its East Austin Specialty Sours and Bob's Fine Beers.
In addition to their signature sours, they also have hard seltzers and snacks available from their on-site kitchen. Special deals include $3 pints and $5 growler fills on Thursdays. The tasting room provides a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable bartenders.
For those looking to take some of their favorite brews home, Blue Owl also offers beer-to-go options. The brewery's hours are Wednesday to Thursday from 3 PM to 10 PM, Friday to Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 8 PM.
Contact Details:
Address: 2400 E Cesar Chavez St #300, Austin, TX 78702
Website: Blue Owl Brewing
Phone: 512-881-8687
6) Zilker Brewing Company
Zilker Brewing Company sits in the heart of East Austin's vibrant 6th Street Bar District. This urban craft brewery stands out with its impressive range of beers, including Hazy IPAs, American IPAs, Sours, and Lagers.
Founded by three friends with a passion for brewing, Zilker Brewing maintains its commitment to quality and community.
Visitors can enjoy their brews in a spacious taproom, converted from an old mechanics garage. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both locals and travelers. Popular choices include Heavenly Daze, a favorite among IPA enthusiasts.
Contact details:
Address: 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: Zilker Brewing Company
7) Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches
Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches is a family-owned brewery and kolache bakery in Austin, Texas. Combining traditional baked goods with a curated selection of craft beers, this spot offers a unique experience for visitors. The kolaches, a Central Texas Czech pastry, are elevated to gourmet status by pastry chef Jasmine Jones, who partners with local vendors for high-quality ingredients.
Located at 3220 Manor Road, the bakery and taproom provide a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Batch's beer selection features local and domestic craft brews, reflecting the best of the current beer scene. Whether you're looking for a morning coffee or an evening beer, Batch has it all.
Hours of operation are extensive, making it easy for visitors to drop by. They open from 8 AM to 10 PM on weekdays, extending their hours slightly on weekends.
Contact Details:
Address: 3220 Manor Road, Austin, TX 78723
Phone: 512-401-3025
Website: Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches
8) Hops & Grain Brewing
Hops & Grain Brewing is an award-winning craft brewery located in Austin, Texas. Known for their sustainability practices and high-quality beers, they have earned a World Beer Cup Gold Medal. Their commitment to ecological responsibility is reflected in their brewing processes.
Despite its physical brewery remaining closed, Hops & Grain beers are widely available in stores. Two popular brews, A Pale Mosaic and The One They Call Zoe, have made a notable return to local shelves.
Customers are encouraged to check with their favorite Central Texas retailers to find Hops & Grain products. Their dedication to creating exceptional beers continues to resonate within the community.
Contact Details:
507 Calles Street, Austin, TX 78702
Phone: (512) 914-2467
Website: Hops & Grain Brewing
Craft Beer Culture in Austin
Austin's craft beer culture combines a rich history with innovative flavors. From local ingredients to unique brewing techniques, the city offers an exciting experience for beer enthusiasts.
History and Evolution
Austin's engaging craft beer scene began to flourish in the early 2000s. The city's first major brewery, Live Oak Brewing Company, opened in 1997 and set the stage for future breweries. Over the years, the number of breweries increased significantly, contributing to the city’s reputation as a craft beer destination.
By 2010, brewery numbers surged, with names like Hops & Grain Brewing and Austin Beerworks becoming key players. These breweries introduced a variety of styles, from IPAs to stouts, showcasing the diversity in brewing approaches.
Local Ingredients and Unique Flavors
One standout feature of Austin's craft beer is the use of locally sourced ingredients. Many breweries incorporate Texas-grown hops, native yeasts, and malted grains from nearby farms. This focus on local sourcing helps create distinctive and memorable beers.
Innovative flavors also define Austin's breweries. For instance, Zilker Brewing Company is known for its Coffee Milk Stout, which uses locally roasted coffee beans. Similarly, seasonal ingredients like regional fruits and herbs often appear in limited-edition brews at various breweries, enhancing the local flavor palette.
Understanding Beer Styles
Exploring craft beer involves recognizing various styles and learning to taste and savor the distinct flavors and aromas they offer.
Popular Craft Beer Styles
Craft beer enthusiasts often encounter a variety of styles, each offering unique flavor profiles and brewing techniques. India Pale Ales (IPAs) feature strong hop flavors and aromas, with a typically higher alcohol content. Stouts and Porters are known for their dark, rich, and roasted malt characteristics, often with notes of coffee and chocolate. Sour beers, like Gose and Berliner Weisse, have a tangy, acidic taste, often with fruity overtones. Pale Ales balance malt and hops, providing a smooth, drinkable option.
How to Taste and Appreciate Craft Beer
Tasting craft beer involves engaging multiple senses. Start by observing the beer's color and clarity. Swirl the beer gently to release aromas and take a moment to inhale deeply, identifying scents such as citrus, pine, or malt. Take a small sip, letting the beer flow over the palate, noting the flavor balance between hops, malt, and any additional ingredients like spices or fruit. Pay attention to the beer's mouthfeel, which can range from light and crisp to full and creamy. Finally, enjoy the finish or aftertaste, which offers lingering flavors that reveal the beer's complexity.
Events and Experiences
Austin's craft breweries offer much more beyond just delicious beers. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, exclusive tastings, and vibrant annual festivals.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
Many of Austin's top breweries, such as Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company (ABGB) and Zilker Brewing, feature guided tours. These tours provide an insider look into the brewing process. Visitors have the chance to see the machinery, learn about different brewing techniques, and get acquainted with the unique ingredients used.
Tasting sessions often follow these tours. Guests can sample a range of beers, from popular choices to exclusive, limited-edition brews. Tastings are typically led by knowledgeable staff who can explain the flavor profiles and answer any questions.
To join a tour, it is often necessary to book in advance, particularly at popular spots like ABGB. Tours and tastings are excellent ways for beer enthusiasts to deepen their appreciation of craft beer and discover new favorites.
Annual Craft Beer Festivals
The city's craft beer scene comes alive during annual festivals. The Texas Craft Brewers Festival is a standout event, typically held in late September. It features over 200 beers from more than 70 breweries across Texas. Attendees can enjoy live music, food trucks, and the opportunity to meet brewers.
Another notable event is Austin Beer Week, which spans multiple days and involves various breweries around the city. It includes special releases, pairing dinners, and educational sessions.
These festivals provide a platform for both seasoned beer lovers and newcomers to explore the diverse craft beer offerings in Austin. They also foster a sense of community among beer enthusiasts and local brewers.
