Chico, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Directory of Craft Breweries
Chico, California, is a vibrant city with a rich tapestry of local breweries that contribute to its unique character. The burgeoning craft beer scene in Chico invites both connoisseurs and casual drinkers to explore a diverse range of brews. From inventive ales to traditional lagers, the city's microbreweries are a testament to the community's passion for quality and creativity in brewing.
Local establishments, such as Secret Trail Brewing Company, are popular among residents and visitors for their wide variety of beers that highlight the brewery's commitment to innovation and exploration. Another cornerstone of the local craft beer community is Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., a pioneering brewery that has garnered national acclaim for its environmental sustainability practices, as well as its extensive selection of beers.
Chico's craft beer scene reflects the essence of Northern California's culture, blending a laid-back atmosphere with a commitment to excellence. Whether one is seeking a refreshing wheat beer or a robust barrel-aged stout, Chico's breweries offer a window into the region's craft beer renaissance, delivering quality and variety at every turn.
History of Craft Beer in Chico
Chico's connection to craft beer can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, which marked the beginning of the microbrewery movement in this Northern California city. Despite Chico's origins, where its founders, John and Annie Bidwell, opposed alcohol due to their support for the temperance movement, Chico has since become a renowned beer destination.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, established in 1980, stands as a pivotal figure in Chico's beer history. It was one of the first microbreweries of its time and played a crucial role in defining and popularizing craft beer both regionally and across the United States. Sierra Nevada's story is synonymous with quality, innovation, and the craft beer revolution.
Here's a brief timeline highlighting key moments in Chico’s craft beer evolution:
1979-1980: Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is founded by Ken Grossman, catalyzing the craft beer movement in Chico.
Late 1980s: Sierra Nevada becomes a benchmark for the American craft beer industry, inspiring a wave of new breweries across the region.
1990s: The home-brewing culture flourishes in Chico, leading to the emergence of multiple local breweries.
21st Century: Chico continues to support a vibrant craft beer community, characterized by a variety of styles and a dedication to quality.
Chico's craft beer scene today remains dynamic, with several breweries that invite both locals and visitors to savor the diverse selection of independently brewed beers. A visit to Chico offers a direct link to the past and present of America's craft beer narrative, where each brewery tells its unique story through the language of malt, hops, yeast, and water.
Discovering Chico's Breweries
Chico, California, offers a rich and diverse brewery scene. With a blend of established entities and innovative newcomers, visitors can savor everything from pioneering craft beer recipes to unique local flavors.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is a cornerstone of Chico's craft beer culture. It is one of America's premier craft breweries, known for its Pale Ale and eco-friendly practices. At 1075 E. 20th St, beer enthusiasts can explore an extensive selection of ales and lagers in the Main Taproom, which serves as a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Nor Cal Brewing Company
Nor Cal Brewing Company provides a comfortable and social atmosphere perfect for enjoying a pint amongst friends. While specific details from the search results are not provided, Nor Cal Brewing prides itself on a diverse range of handcrafted beers, and it is a vital part of the brewery district in Chico, contributing its unique take on classic styles.
Secret Trail Brewing Co
As an innovation-driven microbrewery, Secret Trail Brewing Co. encourages its patrons to 'drink off the beaten path'. This brewery offers a variety of traditional and experimental beers, ensuring that there is something to suit all palates. Located in Chico’s vibrant brewery district, it reflects the city's creative spirit and passion for brewing.
The Allies Pub
The Allies Pub stands out with its British-style ales and welcoming pub atmosphere. Highly rated by locals and visitors alike, The Allies adds to Chico's brewery district with its focus on community and quality. Patrons can enjoy a well-curated selection of ales in a setting that celebrates Chico’s friendly and laid-back culture.
Chico's Brewery District
Chico's Brewery District is notable for its collection of craft breweries and taprooms, where visitors can enjoy unique and locally brewed beverages. The area is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts seeking to explore a variety of flavors and brewing styles.
Bar and Taproom Guide
Chico boasts a thriving bar and taproom scene, highlighted by Secret Trail Brewing Company, praised for its innovative brews and cozy taproom experience. The Allies Pub and The Chico Taproom also offer a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse selection of craft beers. For those looking to explore customer opinions, Yelp reviews can be a useful resource to gauge popular spots and highly rated experiences.
Secret Trail Brewing Company: Emphasizes originality in their beer lineup.
The Allies Pub: Known for a social ambiance and a broad beer menu.
The Chico Taproom: Features an extensive range of craft beers.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
Several Chico breweries, including the famed Sierra Nevada Brewing, provide educational tours and tastings. Ramble West Brewing differentiates itself with not only a selection of signature beers but also by hosting live events and food trucks. Hours for these establishments typically range from mid-afternoon to evening, with extended hours on weekends.
Sierra Nevada Brewing: Offers a comprehensive tour of their brewing operations.
Ramble West Brewing: Unique for its events, food options, and vibrant beer selection.
Popular Craft Beers
Chico's craft beer scene thrives on a diverse selection of ales, with pale ales and hazy IPAs standing out as local favorites due to their unique flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
Pale Ale Offerings
Pale ales in Chico are renowned for their balanced hop bitterness and a spectrum of malty flavors. At the forefront is Sierra Nevada Brewing with its flagship Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, a brew that helped catapult the American craft beer movement. This particular pale ale boasts a crisp, refreshing taste with signature pine and citrus notes.
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: A classic choice known for its hop-driven taste and a clean finish.
Hazy IPA Selections
The hazy IPA trend has taken hold in Chico, with breweries producing these turbid ales that deliver a smooth, juicy hop character without the sharp bitterness. Secret Trail Brewing Co., for instance, offers hazy IPAs that feature a blend of aromatic hops creating flavors from tropical fruit to pine.
Secret Trail Hazy IPAs: A rotation of juicy, New England-style IPAs with varying hop profiles.
Local Eats and Pairings
Craft beer enthusiasts often seek the perfect meal to complement their brew of choice. Chico, CA, offers a variety of establishments where patrons can indulge in the classic duo of burgers and craft beer, each pairing enhancing the flavors of the other.
Burgers and Fries Favorites
In Chico, The Handle Bar has secured a spot in the heart of burger lovers, known for serving up hearty burgers that pair exceptionally well with their selection of local craft beers. A customer might favor a juicy burger with a crisp pale ale, which cuts through the richness of the beef.
Secret Trail Brewing Company is another haven for beer and burger enthusiasts. They offer a range of craft brews that can be paired with local food truck offerings, inviting diners to find their perfect match of burgers and ales.
Restaurant Recommendations
Sierra Nevada Brewing's Taproom & Restaurant stands out as a prime dining destination, offering a range of dishes specifically crafted to harmonize with their beers. Their menu often features gourmet burgers, with recommended pairings of robust porters or stouts that complement the savory flavors.
Another notable spot is Mulberry Station Brewing Company, which combines creative brews with delectable eats. Their kitchen serves up classic burgers and fries, giving patrons the chance to experience the synergy between culinary craftsmanship and brewing expertise.
Craft Beer Shopping
In Chico, the craft beer enthusiast finds a comfortable haven with a number of dedicated bottle shops that cater to an impressive variety of local and regional craft beers. Enthusiasts can expect a selection of bottles, cans, and sometimes even growlers available for purchase, making it easy to enjoy the breadth of Chico's craft beer scene at home or with friends.
Bottle Shops and Retailers
For a curated selection of craft beer in Chico, CA one can explore Spike's Bottle Shop. Renowned for its wide array of craft beers, this location is a prime spot for discovering both local and international brews. The staff is typically well-versed in their offerings and can guide customers through their options, whether they're looking for a light wheat beer or a robust barrel-aged stout.
Another prominent name is Tony's Market & Liquor, ensuring that connoisseurs can acquire their favorite craft beers alongside other spirits. The establishment often stocks glassware as well, ensuring that one has the proper vessel to fully appreciate the nuances of their chosen craft beer.
Here is a simple table listing the key information for the top craft beer shopping options in Chico:
Shop Name Specialty Notes
Spike's Bottle Shop Wide variety of craft beers Known for knowledgeable staff and extensive selection
Tony's Market & Liquor Craft beers alongside a range of spirits Offers glassware to complement beer purchases
These establishments are essential stops for any craft beer aficionado looking to explore Chico's local offerings or to find that perfect bottle to take home.
Events and Happy Hours
Chico's craft beer scene is vibrant, offering enthusiasts an array of happy hour specials and seasonal events that cater to every taste. Patrons can expect to find enticing deals on local brews, particularly in the downtown area, and a calendar dotted with beer-centric celebrations.
Weekly Specials
Downtown Chico brims with activity, and numerous establishments roll out weekly specials that make any day a potential happy hour. For instance:
The Handle Bar and The Pour House are known for their daily happy hours, inviting guests to unwind with discounted drinks.
Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant, a cornerstone of Chico’s brewing culture, has a reputation for consistent happy hour offerings that highlight their classic and innovative beer lineup.
Seasonal Events
Chico’s craft beer calendar is punctuated with seasonal events that attract both locals and visitors. These are some notable highlights:
Sierra Nevada Brewing orchestrates events throughout the year, showcasing everything from new releases to beer education classes.
Seasonal releases and celebrations, such as Oktoberfest or special brewery anniversaries, foreground the rich beer culture that thrives within Chico.
Reviews and Recommendations
Chico's craft beer scene is vibrant and offers a rich diversity of locally brewed options. Enthusiasts often praise Secret Trail Brewing Company for its dedication to craftsmanship. They brew a range of styles from a light wheat beer to a robust barrel-aged stout, making it a must-visit for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.
The Handle Bar has been noted for its friendly atmosphere and good selection of local beers. Patrons appreciate the knowledgeable staff who are ready to provide recommendations. It's a spot where someone can enjoy a pint and learn more about what sets Chico's craft beer apart.
Sierra Nevada Brewing is a pioneer in the craft beer movement and remains a stalwart in the community. Beer lovers consistently recommend taking a tour of the brewery and then settling down to sample some of the signature brews in their taproom.
For a comprehensive experience, The Chico Taproom is often highlighted for its wide assortment of beers. It's a place where both local and rare beers can be found, satisfying the palate of even the most discerning drinker.
Lost Dutchman Taproom garners positive reviews for its cozy vibe and excellent beer selection. This spot is frequently mentioned as a local favorite and often recommended to visitors looking to taste the local beer culture.
Taproom/Brewery Notable Features
Secret Trail Brewing Company Wide range of beer styles
The Handle Bar Friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable staff
Sierra Nevada Brewing Tours available, iconic craft beers
The Chico Taproom Large beer selection, both local and rare finds
Lost Dutchman Taproom Cozy ambiance, well-curated beer options
Visitors and locals alike would do well to explore these establishments to truly appreciate the breadth and depth of Chico's craft beer offerings.
Visiting Chico's Breweries
Chico, California is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a plethora of local breweries each with its own unique offerings and atmosphere. Here's what to know about their hours of operation and the best times to visit for a satisfying brewery experience.
Hours of Operation
When planning a visit to Chico’s breweries, it's essential to know their hours of operation to ensure a smooth brewery-hopping experience. Each location may vary, so consider this general guidance:
Secret Trail Brewing Co.: The exact hours are not listed; visitors should check their website or contact them directly.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.: Typically open daily; for specific hours, consult their contact information.
Chico Brew Tour: Offers a collective experience of local breweries; times are as arranged for the tour.
Ramble West Brewing Co.: Open Wednesday to Thursday from 4-8 PM, Friday from 3-9 PM, Saturday from 12-9 PM, and Sunday from 12-6 PM.
Visitors should always confirm the current hours before visiting, as breweries may adjust their times for special events or seasonally.
Best Times to Visit
To fully experience what Chico's breweries have to offer, one should consider the ambiance at different times:
Weekdays typically provide a more relaxed environment, perfect for those who enjoy quiet sampling and the chance to chat with brewmasters.
Weekends can be lively, with a busy, energetic atmosphere, often featuring live music or special events.
Visiting during off-peak hours, such as early afternoons or weekday evenings, can mean personalized attention and less crowded tasting rooms.
Remember to check for any special events or releases that can offer a unique visit, but may also affect the typical experience with higher foot traffic.
