San Diego is the craft beer capital of America—and that’s not just my opinion, it’s a fact. Already home to hundreds of breweries across the city, San Diego’s beer scene is ever-changing with new breweries emerging, old favorites experimenting with bold flavors, and local tap lists continuing to surprise even the most seasoned enthusiasts.
We all have our favorites, and that’s okay. No two beer drinkers are the same, and consensus in the craft beer world is almost as rare as a bad pint in San Diego. (Though we can probably all agree that Keystone Light belongs nowhere near a tasting flight.)
So, let’s lower our inhibitions and take a tour of San Diego breweries, with a brew worth ordering from each. From sours to stouts, pilsners, and porters, here are our top breweries in San Diego.
North Park Beer Company
Yes, everyone should have their own opinion, but anyone who doesn’t also include North Park Beer Company in their own personal shortlists is wrong. With consistently high-quality brews and 360-degree approach to hospitality, those who wish to see how to run an award-winning brewery need only glance in North Park’s direction.
Locations in North Park, Crown Point, and Bankers Hill
AleSmith Brewing Company
AleSmith has been a giant in San Diego beer for decades, and there’s no sign of them slowing down. Their mammoth tasting room and brewery should be on any beer lover’s pilgrimage list, but don’t just stop your wanderings at the bar. Meander around the Tony Gwynn museum, pop into their not-very-hidden speakeasy Anvil & Stave, and grab a few packs of their housemade Cheesesmith cheese curds on your way out.
9990 AleSmith Ct., Miramar
Nickel Beer Company
After 10 years, Nickel Beer Company is still going strong. Helmed by local beer pioneer Tom Nickel, his reach extends to a number of beer-centric businesses around the county, but this rustic outpost is a lovely oasis smack in the middle of cider and wine country, offering a wide variety of both esoteric and traditional beers on tap.
1485 Hollow Glen Rd., Julian
Societe Brewing
Societe takes its time, focusing on perfecting what they’re doing before moving onto the Next Big Thing. That’s why it took them 10 years to open a second location, and yes, it was worth the wait. Hype chasers may be left wanting, but those who value consistently excellent beer without gimmick will be more than satisfied.
Locations in Kearny Mesa and Old Town
Fall Brewing
It’s rare to find a place that self-identifies as “punk rock” that doesn’t end up either seeming pretentious or for posers, but Fall Brewing manages to embrace edginess without either. Whether you’re in Doc Martens or docksiders, all beer lovers are welcome at their two Mid City locations. Come for the IPAs, stay for the stout on nitro.
Locations in North Park and South Park
Kairoa Brewing Company
San Diego doesn’t have nearly as many rooftop patios as it should, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality. Perch yourself above University Heights with a pint in hand, but don’t forget to come hungry—Kairoa’s kitchen is as good as their brewhouse.
4601 Park Blvd., University Heights
Hopnonymous Brewing Company
Located in the heart of the Convoy District, Hopnonymous is the perfect post-KBBQ wind-down spot. With 18 beers on tap, highlights include the Two Amigos Lime Mexican Lager—a refreshing alternative for Pacifico and Buenaveza fans. If you’re looking for something richer, Leaving Without Saying ‘Goodbye’ is a red ale that pays homage to the classic Irish goodbye with a hint of caramel. Whether you’re capping off a feast or looking for a dog-friendly brewery, Hopnonymous is the place to be.
7705 Convoy Court, San Diego
Pure Project
Pure Project opened in San Diego in 2016, but it seems like they’re been a part of the local brew scene for far longer than that. With 150+ breweries in the county, achieving icon status of this magnitude is no small feat, and I for one am thrilled that they keep opening new spots to make grabbing a pint (or two) easy.
Locations in Carlsbad, Bankers Hill, Miramar, North Park, and Vista
Craft Coast Brewing Company
Good tacos deserve good beer, and both can be found at this Oceanside hot spot. With Pizza Port brewing alums at the helm and amazing birria coming out of the kitchen, this divine duo is a can’t-miss stop along the coast. Try Craft Coast Brewing Company‘s award-winning Old West IPA alongside a couple of tacos for a meal that’s hard to top.
275 Mission Ave., Oceanside
Eppig Brewing
Eppig was way ahead of the current lager trend, and they have been doing it long enough to know exactly what they’re doing. From Schwarzbiers to Vienna lagers, any of their locations will well-serve lager lovers, but their Waterfront Biergarten is an especially lovely place to imbibe.
Locations in Vista and Point Loma
Pizza Port
I don’t know what magical alchemy Pizza Port conjured when they opened in Solana Beach in 1987, but whatever deal they made with whatever deity has more than paid off. Pizza, beer, arcade games, garlic buddies, root beer floats—if it ain’t at Pizza Port, I don’t want it.
Locations all over the damn place
The Church by The Lost Abbey
Drinking in church may be sacrilegious, but this East Village brewery makes an exception. Just steps from Petco Park, The Church by The Lost Abbey invites you to sip your favorite brew from the pews. Go for the Serpent’s Stout if you like it dark and bold, or the Devotion Belgian Ale for something on the lighter side. Feeling hungry? Doggos Gus is on-site daily, serving up hot dogs worthy of an indulgent night out. Cheers to sinning in style.
1313 J Street, San Diego
Burgeon Beer Company
With an emphasis on protecting the environment and an inclination towards hoppy beers, Burgeon kicked San Diego beer up a notch when they opened in 2016. The staff at every taproom always provide stellar service, and it’s one of the only places that can make a bunch of different hazy IPAs that don’t suck.
Locations in Carlsbad, Escondido, and Little Italy
Three Frogs Brewery
For a laid-back night in Santee with great beer and zero pretension, visit Three Frogs Brewery. This no-frills spot keeps the focus on quality brews and quirky charm—including the three live frogs housed in terrarium throughout the joint. Among their lineup, the Golden Stout steals the show with rich caramel, whiskey, and vanilla notes, thanks to a special coffee infusion from their next-door neighbors, Motorcycle Monkey. Make sure to swing by on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 3-6 p.m. for $5 pints and time with your new amphibian friends.
10366 Mission Gorge Road, Suite A, Santee
Harland Brewing Company
Beer snobs sneered when Saint Archer Brewing sold to MillerCoors in 2015. They rolled their eyes when the team behind Saint Archer launched Harland a few years later. Today, Harland is laughing their way into San Diego beer history with tasting rooms all over the county. Plus, the beer—and South Park brunch—is interesting, consistent, and just plain tasty.
Locations in One Paseo, South Park, Scripps Ranch, and Bay Park
Deft Brewing
Beer drinkers with a fondness for Old World traditions can rest easy at Deft. Their roster of European-inspired brews ranges from Oud Bruins to Dubbels, Dark Milds, German Leichtbiers, and more, making it the ideal stop for those who seek a more traditional biergarten experience. (Better still, they share their space with a pizza pop-up, a meadery, and wine tasting room to provide something for everyone.)
The Gärten at 5328 Banks St., Bay Park
BNS Brewing and Distilling
Tucked away in an industrial park on Wheatlands Avenue, BNS Brewing and Distilling is a hidden gem worth seeking out. Step inside, and you’ll find a rustic taproom that feels straight out of the Wild West. While there are plenty of great brews to choose from, the standout is the Revolver IPA, a GABF gold medal winner that delivers crisp citrus notes. Not an IPA fan? The Ole Prospector Red Ale is a smooth, malty alternative. Beyond the beer, there’s no shortage of entertainment at this cowboy-inspired watering hole including line dancing lessons, trivia nights, cornhole tournaments, the occasional cigar truck, and live music, weekly. Giddy up!
10960 Wheatlands Avenue #101, Santee
Sunny Grove Brewing Company
A family-owned passion project from Scott and Tessa Christian, Sunny Grove Brewing may be new to the scene, but their love for craft beer runs deep. Order the popular Hammerhead IPA—a West Coast-style brew with a light pilsner base and mosaic hops. Each week, the brewery hosts trivia nights, live music from Pat McBride, and a rotating lineup of local food vendors like MJ’s Cheesesteaks and Marcella Pizza.
8665 Argent Street, Suite B, Santee
