Costa Mesa, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Gateway to Artisanal Brews
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Orange County, Costa Mesa has become a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts. With an expanding roster of breweries, this Southern California city offers a diverse and dynamic beer scene that caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the local brewers are not shy about experimenting with flavors, ensuring there's always something new and exciting on tap.
As the craft beer movement continues to flourish, Costa Mesa's breweries contribute to this spirited revolution with their unique blends and artisanal approach. Pioneers such as Green Cheek Beer Company and Bootlegger's Brewery have set the stage, creating inviting environments where community and quality converge. The city's SoBeCa District, known for its trendy boutiques and dining venues, also reflects Costa Mesa's commitment to the art of brewing, hosting tasting rooms that showcase the best of what local microbrews have to offer.
The community's embrace of the craft beer culture is exemplified by events and local guides that keep residents and visitors informed about the latest offerings. Costa Mesa's dedication to supporting local breweries ensures that there is always a fresh and inviting selection of craft beers available, highlighting the city's role as a significant player in Southern California's thriving brewery scene.
History of Craft Brewing in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa has embraced the local craft beer movement, intertwining European traditions with modern craft brewing innovation to create a distinctive beer culture.
European Farmhouse Tradition in Local Breweries
Costa Mesa breweries often nod to the European farmhouse tradition with a selection of beers that include saison and bière de garde styles. These styles are characterized by their rustic and earthy flavors, which are the result of traditional brewing methods passed down through generations. Costa Mesa's local breweries incorporate these time-honored European techniques while infusing the beers with Californian creativity, offering a unique experience that pays homage to the past.
Rise of Craft Breweries in Orange County
The culture of craft brewing in Orange County, with Costa Mesa at the forefront, has seen significant growth over the years. This rise began in earnest during the late 20th century as beer enthusiasts sought more flavorful alternatives to the mass-produced beers that dominated the market. Craft breweries in Costa Mesa have flourished, contributing to the diverse and dynamic Orange County beer trail. A focus on quality ingredients, small-batch production, and innovative brewing techniques has solidified their standing in the craft beer community.
Guide to Costa Mesa Craft Breweries
Costa Mesa, California, has emerged as a notable hub for craft beer enthusiasts with a collection of breweries that offer an impressive range of styles and ambiances. The city's SoBeCa district and surrounding areas have become a pivotal part of Orange County's craft beer scene, featuring tasting rooms where local beer aficionados and visitors can savor unique and skillfully brewed creations.
Gunwhale Ales
Located in the heart of Costa Mesa's SoBeCa District, Gunwhale Ales specializes in coastal ales that blend tradition with a flair of modernity. They offer a selection of beers that are as much about innovation as they are about tradition, ensuring a unique tasting experience for visitors.
Barley Forge Brewing Co.
Barley Forge Brewing Co. is known for its award-winning beers and a diverse beer menu that caters to all palates. With a cozy atmosphere, it's a welcoming spot for those looking to enjoy well-crafted brews ranging from classic lagers to adventurous ales.
Brewing Reserve of California
Brewing Reserve of California stands out with its artisanal approach to beer-making. They offer a constantly changing lineup of beers that showcase the brewmaster's creativity and passion for the finest ingredients.
Salty Bear Brewing
Salty Bear Brewing is a relative newcomer to the Costa Mesa brewery scene, quickly gaining popularity for its vibrant and experimental beer list. Here, patrons can expect a casual, friendly environment alongside a menu of distinctive craft beers.
Bootlegger’s Brewery
Bootlegger’s Brewery brings a slice of Costa Mesa's local flavor with its laid-back vibe and emphasis on community. Their tasting room serves an array of beers, from refreshing light options to rich, robust dark ales.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Part of a revered San Diego-based chain, Karl Strauss Brewing Company has made its mark in Costa Mesa with its premium range of beers. Their brews are consistently excellent, reflecting years of brewing experience and a dedication to quality.
Green Cheek Beer Co.
Last but not least, Green Cheek Beer Co. is a standout in Orange County for its innovative brewing techniques and delicious, forward-thinking beers. Their constantly evolving beer menu promises something new and exciting with each visit.
Each brewery contributes to the dynamic landscape of Costa Mesa's craft beer scene, offering both locals and visitors a taste of Southern California's brewing excellence.
Craft Beers of Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, with a wide array of breweries that offer innovative and classic styles. Each brewery has its unique take on beloved brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, refreshing Mexican American style lagers to flavorful Old World hefeweizens.
Popular IPAs
Costa Mesa's breweries offer a variety of India Pale Ales (IPAs) that cater to lovers of hoppy flavors. Green Cheek Beer Company is known for their wide selection of IPAs, which often feature a balance of hops and citrus notes. Similarly, Bootlegger's Brewery in Costa Mesa prides itself on producing IPAs that are both bold and accessible, making them a favorite for IPA enthusiasts.
Refreshing Stouts
For those seeking the darker, more intense profiles of stouts, Costa Mesa's craft breweries do not disappoint. Barley Forge Brewing Co. (not listed in the search results but is a well-known Costa Mesa brewery) has been recognized for its stouts that often present complex chocolate and coffee flavors, ideal for savoring.
Unique Mexican American Style Lagers
Craft breweries in Costa Mesa embrace the local cultural influences by creating unique Mexican American style lagers. These beers are characterized by their crisp and refreshing taste, sometimes with a hint of lime or salt. Salty Bear Brewing is among the local establishments where beer aficionados can explore these distinctive lagers.
Flavorful Old World Hefeweizens
Old World hefeweizens are a testament to the traditional German wheat beer style, known for their notes of banana and clove. In Costa Mesa, craft breweries like Helmsman Ale House are respected for maintaining the integrity of this style while adding their own twist to create hefeweizens that are both authentic and innovative.
Food Pairing and Local Cuisine
Costa Mesa's craft beer scene is complemented by a thriving food culture that marries the casual fare with the complexity of local brews. Food trucks, artisanal burgers, and expert food pairing provide a full-sensory beer trail experience.
Food Trucks and Craft Brews
Costa Mesa's food trucks offer a variety of delicious eats that pair excellently with local craft beers. One can find trucks located conveniently near breweries, serving everything from gourmet tacos to fusion cuisine. These mobile kitchens are known to collaborate with breweries for special events, creating an ever-changing culinary landscape to match the revolving taps.
Gourmet Tacos: Perfect with a hoppy IPA or a crisp Mexican American style lager.
Asian Fusion: Complements lighter beers such as pilsners or wheat ales.
Burgers and Beer
The classic American burger finds a perfect partner in Costa Mesa craft beers. Local breweries and gastropubs take pride in their handcrafted burgers, each designed to enhance the flavors found in their beers.
Classic Cheeseburger: Pairs well with a robust Double IPA or a malty red ale.
Vegetarian Options: Offer a refreshing balance when enjoyed with a Belgian style ale.
The Art of Food Pairing
Understanding food pairing is crucial in Costa Mesa's beer culture. Brewers and chefs work together to highlight how different beer styles interact with food flavors—bitter, sweet, umami, and more.
Cheese & Charcuterie (What wine goes well with charcuterie?): Ideal for savoring with complex Belgian ales.
Spicy Dishes (What wine goes well with spicy dishes?): Can be tempered by sweeter, malt-forward beers like ambers and browns.
Craft Beer Culture and Community
Costa Mesa's craft beer scene is not only thriving but also fosters a strong sense of community among local residents and visitors alike, with an array of events and tasting rooms that offer an inviting social atmosphere.
Local Events and Happy Hour Specials
Costa Mesa breweries frequently host events that bring together craft beer enthusiasts. These might range from new beer release parties to brewery tours and food pairings. Happy hour specials are a staple, providing an opportunity for friends to gather and enjoy discounted drinks, typically in the late afternoon to early evening hours. Happy hours can vary among establishments, but they consistently serve as a way to try premium craft beers at a more accessible price point.
Event Example: Matter of Craft's Meet the Brewer nights
Happy Hour Timing: Often between 4 pm to 6 pm on weekdays
Socializing and Craft Beer
Craft breweries in Costa Mesa are more than just a place to drink; they are social hubs. Establishments like Helmsman Ale House and Green Cheek Beer Company offer the perfect environment for friends to meet and enjoy a variety of brews. The casual and friendly atmosphere is conducive to making new acquaintances who share a common interest in craft beer culture.
Atmosphere: Welcoming and casual
Common Interest: Shared passion for diverse and flavorful craft beers
Community-Driven Tasting Rooms
The tasting rooms of Costa Mesa reflect the community-driven spirit of the craft beer movement. These spaces are often the setting for both laid-back conversations and spirited discussions about the nuances of beer-making. Tasting rooms are typically adorned with local art and merchandise, underscoring their commitment to local culture and craftsmanship.
Tasting Room Example: Brewing Reserve of California
Local Culture: Highlighted through decor and product offerings
By providing settings for events, socializing, and community gathering spots, Costa Mesa's craft beer venues contribute significantly to the area's vibrant social fabric, making it a must-visit destination for any craft beer aficionado.
Reviews and Recommendations
In Costa Mesa, craft beer enthusiasts can delve into a diverse array of local brews backed by a strong community presence in both professional and customer-based evaluations. Reviews play a pivotal role in guiding patrons to quality experiences, while testimonials share personal accounts of the beer's flavor and the establishments' ambiance.
Professional Craft Beer Reviews
Professionals within the craft beer industry offer insights that balance technical expertise with sensory evaluation. They typically highlight the craftsmanship behind each brew, discussing aspects from aroma and mouthfeel to the complexity of flavors. Many local Costa Mesa craft beer spots have been featured in professional reviews, accentuating the delicious and unique profiles of their offerings. Specialists often point out standout selections, such as:
Green Cheek Beer Company: Known for a wide selection of beers that satisfy both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.
Bootlegger's Brewery - Costa Mesa: Lauded for maintaining a lineup of consistently well-received beers.
Customer Favorites and Testimonials
Customers passionately share their experiences at Costa Mesa breweries, often celebrating the blend of delicious beer with engaging atmospheres. Testimonials reflect genuine reactions to the beer quality and service, sometimes offering different perspectives than professional reviews. Accumulated customer favorites often create a community-approved list of must-tries, including:
Matter of Craft: Frequently praised in customer reviews for the pleasant blend of a well-curated bottle shop with a tap room that offers scratch kitchen delights.
Salty Bear Brewing: Gathers positive testimonies for its inviting space and flavorful, well-crafted beers.
The collected reviews and testimonials serve as a compass for new visitors to navigate Costa Mesa's craft beer scene, ensuring an enjoyable and delicious experience.
Visit Planning
When it comes to exploring the vibrant craft beer scene in Costa Mesa, California, proper planning can enhance the experience. Visitors can navigate the variety of breweries and craft beer tours with optimal timing and insider knowledge.
Best Times to Visit Costa Mesa Breweries
The optimal times for brewery visits in Costa Mesa are weekends and weekday evenings. Many breweries have expanded hours during these times, and some may offer special releases or events that are not available during weekdays. Visitors should check individual brewery websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date hours and event schedules. Weekdays, however, can offer a quieter atmosphere for those looking to avoid crowds.
Weekend Hours: Typically, noon to late evening
Weekday Hours: Often, 4 PM to 9 PM
Special Events: Frequently hosted on weekends
Craft Beer Tours and Experiences
For an immersive experience, visitors may consider booking a craft beer tour. These guided tours often include behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process, tastings of exclusive beer varieties, and insights into the local craft beer culture. Some breweries may also offer their own unique experiences, such as paired tastings with local cuisine, brewing workshops, or meet-and-greets with the brewers.
Guided Tours: Check for availability and book in advance.
Self-Guided Tours: Maps and brewery lists are available online.
Unique Brewery Experiences: Offerings may vary; inquire about special events and experiences ahead of time.
When planning a visit, attendees should note the locations of their breweries of interest. Costa Mesa's breweries may be close enough to consider walking from one to another or may require a short drive. Designated drivers or ride-sharing services are recommended for safe transportation.
Brewery Profiles
Costa Mesa is home to a vibrant craft beer scene with local breweries that have carved out a niche for themselves. These establishments cater to a diverse audience, providing a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that reflect the city's dynamic beer culture.
Gunwhale Ales – A Profile
Gunwhale Ales blends coastal California lifestyle with a passion for great beer. Focused on creating balanced, drinkable ales and lagers that pay homage to the maritime heritage, they often infuse a touch of wilderness by using wild yeast and farmhouse-style brewing.
Signature Brew: Coastal Ales
Notable Series: They offer a range of beers from hoppy IPAs to tart and funky wild ales.
Ambiance: The tasting room combines modern aesthetics with a comfortable, rustic feel.
Food: While they do not have an in-house kitchen, visitors can enjoy local Bacon-infused dishes from nearby eateries.
Green Cheek Beer Co. – A Profile
Green Cheek Beer Co. is all about fresh, innovative perspectives on beer. They excel by constantly experimenting and iterating on their brewing process. Green Cheek is recognized for its commitment to quality and the expansive variety of beers they produce.
Specialty: Innovative Craft Beers
Award-Winning: Their accolades testify to their skill and creativity in the brewing arts.
Tasting Room Vibe: The space is lively and inviting, fostering a community of beer enthusiasts.
Food Offerings: Although they do not serve their own food, they often host food trucks and encourage food pairings that complement their beers.
