Best 9 Breweries in Los Angeles CA: Top Places to Grab a Cold One

Los Angeles, CA is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, and craft beer is no exception. With a multitude of breweries scattered throughout the city, LA has become a hub for beer enthusiasts looking to try new and unique brews.

From classic IPAs to experimental sour beers, Los Angeles has something for every type of beer drinker. The city’s breweries offer a range of experiences, from laid-back taprooms to bustling brewpubs. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, exploring the best breweries in Los Angeles is a must-do activity.

With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. This article will highlight some of the best breweries in Los Angeles, providing insight into what makes each one unique and worth visiting. From established breweries with a loyal following to up-and-coming spots pushing the boundaries of beer-making, this guide will help you discover the best of LA’s craft beer scene.

History of Breweries in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has a rich and diverse history of beer brewing that dates back to the late 19th century. The city’s first brewery was established in 1874 by Joseph Maier, a German immigrant who founded the Maier Brewing Company. Maier’s brewery was located in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles and produced a range of beers, including lagers, ales, and stouts.

The early 1900s saw a surge in the number of breweries in Los Angeles, with many new companies emerging to meet the growing demand for beer. One of the most successful of these was the Los Angeles Brewing Company, which was founded in 1897 and later acquired by Bavarian immigrant George Zobelein. Under Zobelein’s leadership, the company introduced a new line of beers, including the popular Eastside Lager, which became a favorite among Angelenos.

Despite the city’s thriving beer industry, the onset of Prohibition in 1920 dealt a severe blow to the brewing community in Los Angeles. Many breweries were forced to close their doors, and those that remained open were forced to adapt to the new reality of producing non-alcoholic beverages.

The end of Prohibition in 1933 brought new hope to the brewing industry in Los Angeles, but it would take several decades for the city’s beer scene to fully recover. In recent years, however, the craft beer movement has taken hold in Los Angeles, with a growing number of breweries producing a wide range of unique and flavorful beers.

Today, Los Angeles is home to a thriving beer scene, with dozens of breweries scattered throughout the city. From small, independent breweries to large, well-established companies, there is no shortage of options for beer lovers in Los Angeles.

Art District Brewing Company

Art District Brewing Company is one of the best breweries in Los Angeles, located in the Arts District of Downtown LA. The brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious food.

The atmosphere of the brewery is trendy and welcoming, with a spacious indoor area and outdoor seating. The interior is decorated with colorful murals, giving it a vibrant and artistic feel.

One of the unique features of Art District Brewing Company is its selection of cocktails. They serve classic cocktails as well as their own signature creations. Customers can enjoy a refreshing beer or a creative cocktail while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

In addition to its drinks, Art District Brewing Company also offers a variety of food options. Their menu includes classic pub fare such as burgers, fries, and wings, as well as more unique options such as vegan tacos and poke bowls.

Website: http://artsdistrictbrewing.com/

Address: 828 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Eagle Rock Brewery

Eagle Rock Brewery is a popular brewery located in the Glassell Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, CA. The brewery was founded in 2009 by Jeremy Raub, Ting Su, and her husband, Jerry Su. The brewery has a taproom that is open to the public, where visitors can sample their beers and enjoy a variety of food options.

One of the unique things about Eagle Rock Brewery is that they use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For example, they recently debuted a California native plant lager made with California laurel, yerba santa, and sagebrush. This commitment to using local ingredients is part of their overall philosophy of sustainability and supporting the local community.

Eagle Rock Brewery has a wide variety of beers available, including IPAs, lagers, stouts, and more. Some of their most popular beers include the Populist IPA, Revolution Stout, and Red Velvet Ale. They also have a rotating selection of seasonal beers, so there is always something new to try.

In addition to its taproom, Eagle Rock Brewery also offers tours of its brewery. Visitors can learn about the brewing process and see firsthand how their beers are made. The brewery also hosts events throughout the year, including live music, food trucks, and special beer releases.

Website: http://eaglerockbrewery.com/

Address: 3056 Roswell St Suite A, Los Angeles, CA 90065, United States

Highland Park Brewery

Highland Park Brewery is a popular brewery located in Los Angeles, CA. With multiple locations across the city, this brewery has become a must-visit destination for beer lovers.

One of the unique aspects of Highland Park Brewery is its focus on creating small-batch, experimental beers. This means that visitors can always expect to find something new and exciting on the menu. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is something for everyone at Highland Park Brewery.

In addition to its impressive beer selection, Highland Park Brewery also offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their drinks in a cozy taproom or outside on a spacious patio. The brewery also hosts regular events and live music, making it a fun spot to hang out with friends or meet new people.

Website: http://hpb.la/

Address: 1220 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Golden Road Brewing

Golden Road Brewing is a popular brewery located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a wide selection of craft beers, including IPAs, ales, and lagers. Their beers are brewed on-site and are made with locally sourced ingredients.

One of Golden Road Brewing’s most popular beers is the “Wolf Among Weeds” IPA. This beer is made with a blend of hops and has a strong, hoppy flavor. Another popular beer is the “Mango Cart” wheat ale, which is brewed with fresh mango puree and has a sweet, fruity flavor.

Golden Road Brewing also offers a variety of food options, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. One popular food item is the Mac and Cheese Pretzel Bowl, which is a pretzel bowl filled with mac and cheese and topped with bacon bits.

Website: https://www.goldenroad.la/

Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

The brewery has a spacious indoor seating area as well as an outdoor patio. They also offer tours of their brewery, which include a tasting of their beers.

Smog City Brewing

Smog City Brewing is a popular brewery located in Torrance, California. The brewery has been brewing beer since 2011 and has gained a reputation for its creative and high-quality brews.

One of the unique aspects of Smog City Brewing is its commitment to using local ingredients in its beers. The brewery uses locally sourced hops and malts to create unique and flavorful brews that are distinct to the Southern California region.

Smog City Brewing offers a wide range of beers that cater to different tastes. Some of the popular brews include the Sabre-Toothed Squirrel, an amber ale, and the Little Bo Pils, a Czech-style pilsner. The brewery also offers seasonal and limited-edition brews that are worth trying.

In addition to its delicious beers, Smog City Brewing is also known for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The brewery has a spacious taproom with plenty of seating options, including a large outdoor patio. Visitors can enjoy a pint of beer while playing board games or chatting with friends.

Website: http://www.smogcitybrewing.com/

Address: 1901 Del Amo Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501, USA

Unique Brews in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to some of the most unique and innovative breweries in the country. These breweries offer a wide range of flavors and styles that are sure to satisfy any beer enthusiast. Here are some of the most unique brews in Los Angeles:

1. Phantom Carriage Brewery

Phantom Carriage Brewery is a horror-themed brewery that specializes in sour beers. One of their most unique offerings is the “Broadacres” sour ale, which is brewed with blackberries, raspberries, and boysenberries. This beer is tart and fruity, with a refreshing finish.

Website: https://www.phantomcarriage.com/

Address: 18525 S Main St #4611, Gardena, CA 90248, United States

2. Brouwerij West

Brouwerij West is a Belgian-style brewery that specializes in farmhouse ales. One of their most unique beers is the “Dog Ate My Homework” saison, which is brewed with plums, cinnamon, and vanilla. This beer is spicy and fruity, with a dry and refreshing finish.

Whether you’re a fan of sour beers, stouts, or farmhouse ales, Los Angeles has something unique and exciting to offer. These breweries are pushing the boundaries of what beer can be, and are sure to provide a memorable drinking experience.

Website: http://www.brouwerijwest.com/

Address: 110 E 22nd St, San Pedro, CA 90731, USA

Monkish Brewing Co.

Monkish Brewing Co. is a small brewery located in Torrance, Los Angeles, CA. The brewery has gained a cult following for its Belgian-style ales since it opened during the IBU arms race of the early 2010s. Monkish has differentiated itself from other breweries in the area by focusing on classic styles.

The brewery has a tasting room that is open to the public. Visitors can sample a variety of Monkish beers, including their popular Tripels and Saisons. Monkish also offers limited-edition beers that are only available in the tasting room.

Monkish’s beers are highly sought after and often sell out quickly. The brewery releases new beers every week, and fans of the brewery often line up early to get their hands on the latest release.

Monkish has received numerous awards for its beers, including medals at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup. The brewery has also been featured in various publications, including Hop Culture and The Hop Review.

Website: http://www.monkishbrewing.com/

Address: 20311 S Western Ave, Torrance, CA 90501, USA

Beachwood Blendery

Beachwood Blendery is a small-batch Belgian-style Lambic-inspired brewery located in Long Beach, California. The brewery was founded in 2014 by the Beachwood BBQ & Brewing team, which also operates the Beachwood BBQ restaurant in Seal Beach.

The Blendery’s focus is on creating beers inspired by the Belgian Lambic tradition. They use locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fruit, to create their unique and flavorful beers. Their beers are aged in oak barrels and blended to create complex and delicious flavors.

Some of the Blendery’s signature beers include the Propagation Series, which features a rotating selection of fruit beers, and the Funk Yeah series, which includes a variety of funky and sour beers. They also offer a selection of barrel-aged beers, including the Tart Simpson, a sour blonde ale aged in oak barrels with raspberries.

The Blendery has received recognition both at home and abroad. In 2017, they won a gold medal at the World Beer Cup for their Funk Yeah: Apricot beer. They have also been named one of the best breweries in Los Angeles by publications such as Hop Culture and Eater LA.

Website: http://beachwoodbrewing.com/blendery.html

Address: 247 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA

Visitors to the Blendery can enjoy a selection of their beers in the tasting room, which is open Thursday through Sunday. They also offer a variety of merchandise, including t-shirts, glassware, and beer to-go.

The Brewery Art Walk

The Brewery Art Walk is a biannual event that takes place in the historic Brewery artist colony in Los Angeles, California. The event showcases the works of over 100 artists who live and work in the colony’s converted industrial buildings.

Visitors can tour the artist studios, view and purchase art, and enjoy live music and food trucks. The event is free to attend and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The Brewery Art Walk is not just an art event, but also a celebration of the history and culture of the Brewery. The colony was originally founded in the 19th century as the Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery and was later converted into an artist community in the 1980s.

In addition to the art walk, the Brewery is home to a number of galleries, studios, and creative businesses. Visitors can explore the Brewery any time of year to discover new artists, attend events, and experience the unique atmosphere of this historic community.

Website: http://breweryartwalk.com/

Address: 2100 N Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90031, USA

Brewery Tours in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to some of the best breweries in the country. For those who want to explore the local beer scene, taking a brewery tour is a great way to do it. Here are some of the best brewery tours in Los Angeles:

• LA Beer Hop: LA Beer Hop offers a variety of brewery tours in Los Angeles. They have tours that focus on specific neighborhoods, such as the Arts District, and tours that visit multiple breweries in one day. Each tour includes transportation, tastings, and a knowledgeable guide.
  
• SoCal Brew Bus: SoCal Brew Bus offers brewery tours in Los Angeles and Orange County. They have a variety of tours to choose from, including tours that focus on specific breweries or neighborhoods, and tours that include food and beer pairings.
  
• Best Coast Tours: Best Coast Tours offers brewery tours in Orange County and Long Beach. They have a variety of tours to choose from, including tours that focus on specific breweries or neighborhoods, and tours that include food and beer pairings.
  
• Secret Beer Tours: Secret Beer Tours offers a brewery tour in Los Angeles that includes tastings at three different breweries. The tour lasts 3-3.5 hours and includes transportation, beer tastings, and a knowledgeable guide.
  
• West Coaster Brewery Tours: West Coaster Brewery Tours offers private brewery tours in Los Angeles and Orange County. They can customize a tour based on your preferences and interests, and they provide transportation, tastings, and a knowledgeable guide.
  

No matter which brewery tour you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the local beer scene in Los Angeles.

Craft Beer Festivals

Los Angeles is home to some of the best craft beer festivals in the country. These events bring together local breweries, food vendors, and beer enthusiasts for a day of fun and celebration. Here are a few of the top craft beer festivals in Los Angeles:

• Los Angeles Beer Festival: This annual festival is held in the heart of downtown LA and features over 80 breweries, food trucks, and live music. Attendees can sample unlimited pours of craft beer and cider while enjoying the beautiful views of the city skyline.
  
• California Beer Festival: This festival is held in various locations throughout California, including Ventura, San Dimas, and Santa Cruz. The Los Angeles edition of the festival takes place at Frank G. Bonelli Park and features over 85 craft breweries, live music, and food vendors.
  
• L.A. Vegan Beer and Food Festival: This festival is perfect for beer lovers who also follow a plant-based diet. Held at the Rose Bowl Stadium, the festival features over 200 beers and ciders from local and national breweries, as well as vegan food vendors and live music.
  
• Brew at the Zoo: This unique festival is held at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens and gives attendees the opportunity to sample craft beer while exploring the zoo after hours. The festival features over 40 breweries, food vendors, and live music.
  
• Beer Camp: Hosted by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Beer Camp is a traveling beer festival that stops in cities across the country, including Los Angeles. The festival features over 100 breweries, food vendors, and live music, as well as educational sessions on brewing and beer tasting.
  

Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these craft beer festivals are a great way to experience the best of Los Angeles’s craft beer scene.