Exploring San Diego Breweries: The Ultimate Craft Beer Journey
San Diego is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts. Once Upon a Time, it was easy to visit all the top breweries in the San Diego area. Today, with roughly 150 breweries, it takes more than just a leisurely week to experience it all. This guide will help you navigate the best spots to savor San Diego’s finest craft beer.
Craft Beer Haven: Pizza Port
Locations: Carlsbad, Solana Beach, Bressi Ranch, Ocean Beach, Imperial Beach
Pizza Port is famous for its beer, consistently outperforming others at the Great American beer festival with 101 medals. Whether you try the Mongo double IPA or the Belgian blonde Guillaume, the quality is undeniable, even if the pizza isn’t the highlight.
The Jewel of Beeramar: AleSmith
Location: Miramar
AleSmith stands as a beacon in ‘Beeramar,’ a neighborhood known for its cluster of beer halls. With a sprawling brewery space and a museum dedicated to baseball legend Tony Gwynn, AleSmith offers both history and fantastic brews. Don’t miss the Speedway Stout, available in delightful variations.
The Magic of Mujeres Brew House
Location: Barrio Logan
At Mujeres Brew House, the influence of Mexican culture shines through. Their beers, infused with fresh and natural flavors from guava, mango, and tamarind, reflect the richness of the San Diego-Tijuana border’s culinary scene. It’s a vibrant spot run by creative women brewsters.
North Park Beer Co.: A Rising Star
Locations: North Park, Banker’s Hill, Crown Point
Founded by award-winning home brewer Kelsey McNair, North Park Beer Co. has quickly gained fame. Known for its bold IPAs like Hop-Fu, each location offers a unique experience—whether it’s cozy ambiance, pizza focus, or architectural beauty.
Family-Run Excellence: McIlhenney Brewing
Location: Alpine
McIlhenney Brewing, led by Shawn McIlhenney, offers some of the brightest IPAs. Their flagship, Wizard’s Wand, is a zesty delight, complemented by lighter beers with flavors of vanilla, apricot, and raspberries. It’s a friendly, family-run spot in a rustic setting.
If you’re still thirsty, consider these additional suggestions: The Lost Abbey for Belgian-style brews, Karl Strauss, a long-standing favorite, Societe, known for punching above its weight, Blind Lady Ale House with its nano-brewery ales, and White Labs, a leader in brewers’ yeast.
Experience Craft Beer with a San Diego Flavor
San Diego breweries offer a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. From the storied halls of AleSmith and the magical brews of Mujeres Brew House to the welcoming locales of North Park Beer Co., each visit enriches your appreciation for craft beer. Whether you’re hunting for the next favorite IPA or exploring unique, fruit-infused brews, San Diego’s craft beer scene has something special for every beer lover.
| Breweries | Must-Try Beers | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza Port | Mongo, Guillaume | 101 GABF Medals |
| AleSmith | Speedway Stout, .394 Pale Ale | Tony Gwynn Museum |
| Mujeres Brew House | Guava and Mango Brews | Women-run & Cultural Influence |
| North Park Beer Co. | Hop-Fu IPA | Craftsman Architectural Style |
| McIlhenney Brewing | Wizard’s Wand | Family-run Business |
San Diego’s breweries are more than just places to get a drink—they are destinations where craft beer culture thrives. Enjoy your San Diego craft beer journey!
