Glendale, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider's Tour to Artisan Brews
Glendale, California, has become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting an eclectic mix of breweries and beer bars that cater to all palates. The city's momentum in the craft beer scene is evident in its selection of bespoke breweries and specialty beer bars that offer a vast array of local and regional brews. Patrons can expect to find unique and innovative beers alongside classic favorites, ensuring that both newcomers to craft beer and seasoned aficionados will find something to delight their taste buds.
Establishments like Brewyard Beer Company and Golden Road Brewing have established themselves as mainstays in the local craft beer landscape of Glendale, drawing in crowds with their quality brews and engaging atmospheres. Meanwhile, bars such as The Glendale Tap have gained acclaim for their extensive selection, providing beer lovers with an impressive lineup of craft options on tap, including offerings from smaller, niche breweries that are pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
Navigating Glendale's craft beer offerings is an exciting venture. With each visit to a brewery or beer bar, exploration is on the agenda as seasoned beer connoisseurs and curious drinkers alike can sample a diverse range of craft beers. This ever-evolving scene ensures that Glendale stands as a significant player in the Southern California craft beer community, inviting locals and visitors to experience the depth and breadth of its beer selection.
History of Craft Beer in Glendale, CA
Glendale, a city nestled in the Greater Los Angeles area of California, has been a growing hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The local craft beer scene traces its pathways alongside the state's rich brewing history, which saw a resurgence of interest in craft brews from the 1960s onwards.
Brewyard Beer Company has taken a significant role in shaping Glendale's craft beer landscape. This brewery is notable for being the first craft beer outlet in the city. They ambitiously equipped their 4,500 square foot space with a 15 barrel brewing system. Their central mission diverges from the conventional; they aspire to bring back the "Common" style Lager, once a staple of California, a brew that harmoniously combines strong ale-like flavors with the crisp finish of a lager.
The brew culture in Glendale is not just about reviving old traditions but also about setting new trends. OpenTap, a digital platform, has emerged from the city's innovative spirit. This application’s objective is to weave together breweries, beer aficionados, and beer-centric events, creating a cohesive community. It aims to further the city’s and California's legacy by fostering local involvement and promoting small businesses.
Glendale's craft beer story is still evolving, with each establishment contributing its narrative and brewing style, creating a unique identity within the broader Los Angeles craft beer tapestry. They have embraced their role in both cherishing the Californian brewing heritage and innovating to captivate modern palettes.
Top Breweries in Glendale
Glendale, California, is home to a vibrant craft beer scene that features a diverse selection of local breweries, each offering a unique flavor profile and community-focused atmosphere.
Brewyard Beer Company
Brewyard Beer Company is renowned for its innovative approach to craft beer. This local favorite often experiments with its selection, bridging traditional styles with contemporary tastes. The brewery provides a communal space where patrons can congregate and enjoy a variety of craft beers that highlight the Brewyard's creativity.
Eagle Rock Brewery
Celebrated for its contribution to the Los Angeles craft beer community, Eagle Rock Brewery stands out due to its eclectic range of beers that capture the essence of Glendale's unique culture. The brewery emphasizes quality and character in their brews, crafting each beer to offer a distinctive experience to beer enthusiasts.
Golden Road Brewing
Golden Road Brewing is a staple in the local beer landscape, recognized for its commitment to producing a broad spectrum of craft beers. They cater to all palates, from the casual drinker to the seasoned beer connoisseur, ensuring a local Glendale feel with every sip.
Paperback Brewing
Paperback Brewing has quickly established itself with a flair for variety and a dedication to flavor. This newer entrant to the Glendale craft beer community has already garnered attention for their passion-infused beers and the unique stories that accompany each brew, embracing the artistry behind craft beer creation.
Noteworthy Beer Bars
Glendale, California, offers a diverse range of beer bars that boast an impressive selection of local and international brews. These establishments are known for their extensive taps, eclectic variety, and inviting atmospheres, which include amenities like pool tables and outdoor areas.
The Glendale Tap
The Glendale Tap stands out with its astonishing selection of 52 taps, catering to an array of palates. Regulars and visitors alike relish the chance to sample the ever-changing variety of craft beers. The ambiance is further enhanced by the inclusion of a classic pool table, making it a favorite hangout spot for both beer aficionados and those looking to unwind.
The Cellar
At The Cellar, one can expect a meticulously curated range of both local craft beers and unique bottled/canned options. Not only does the bar offer a fantastic beer selection, but it also provides a menu with satisfying food pairings. This enhances the drinking experience, as patrons can savor each sip alongside a complementary bite.
Yardhouse
Yardhouse is widely recognized for its dynamic kitchen that effortlessly pairs with a vast beer line-up. Beer enthusiasts appreciate the bar for its commitment to showcasing local brews alongside renowned global beers. The establishment's prime location in Long Beach adds to its allure, attracting a crowd that values quality and variety.
Mechanics Shop
The Mechanics Shop introduces a different vibe with its outdoor area, creating an inviting setting for social gatherings. The bar doesn't compromise on selection, assuring that those who venture in are treated to a diverse tap list. The Mechanics Shop emphasizes local beer, paying homage to Glendale's own craft beer scene.
Unique Drinking Experiences
Glendale's craft beer scene offers a rich blend of hops and flavors, creating unique experiences with curated food pairings, informative brewery tours, and lively community events.
Local Craft Beer and Food Pairings
Visitors to We're Pouring at 524 E Glenoaks Blvd are treated to a sensational 30-tap bar renowned for its extensive beer selection. Patrons can savor craft beers alongside their gourmet offerings, elevating the flavors of both the brew and the dish. For example, a hoppy IPA from Bottle Logic pairs exquisitely with a spicy pizza, accentuating the heat and the beer’s citrus notes.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
For those interested in the brewing process, Highland Park Brewery (not located in Glendale but a notable mention in the Los Angeles area) on 5125 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042, provides an insightful peek behind the scenes. They offer brewery tours that demystify the brewing process and tastings that introduce patrons to their innovative beer roster, fostering a deeper appreciation for craft beer production and flavor profiles.
Beer Events and Community Gatherings
Community gatherings are a cornerstone of the Glendale beer culture. Craft beer advocates can converge at events like those hosted by Glendale Tap, which boasts a rotating list of more than 50 beers on tap. Their events often become social hubs where friends and community connect over shared passions for local brews and lively discussion.
Specialty Shops and Bottle Shops
In Glendale, CA, craft beer enthusiasts are met with an impressive array of specialty shops and bottle shops that boast a wide selection of local and international craft beers. These establishments offer a diverse variety to cater to every palate, from the hoppiest IPAs to the smoothest pilsners.
Burbank Bottle Shop
Burbank is home to The Bottle Shoppe, revered for its curated selection of craft beer. Patrons find a variety of styles, with local brews standing out as a customer favorite. The store's shelves are a testament to the vibrant craft beer scene, showcasing options ranging from robust stouts to crisp ales.
Orange County Cerveza Retailers
South of Glendale, in Orange County, craft beer retailers are known for their eclectic selection, catering to both the casual drinker and the connoisseur. Retailers stock everything from bold local IPAs to imported pilsners, ensuring that beer lovers have access to both new flavors and classic favorites. Their dedication to variety is evident in the comprehensive range of choices available to customers.
Craft Beer Selections and Recommendations
Glendale, CA boasts an impressive array of craft beer establishments that cater to a variety of palates. For enthusiasts seeking a rich tapestry of flavors, these local spots offer a diverse selection of ales, IPAs, lagers, saisons, stouts, and the increasingly popular hazy IPAs.
One must-visit is The Glendale Tap, where the selection is extensive, especially known for smaller, unique breweries. Their offering focuses on craft beer that is both high-quality and diverse, ensuring that each visit can bring a new tasting experience.
Brewyard Beer Company distinguishes itself with a fusion of traditional and innovative brewing, producing lagers that have a distinct Californian twist. The lagers here are crisp and refreshing, demonstrating Brewyard's dedication to the art of craft brewing.
Over at Golden Road Brewing, beer aficionados will find a strong lineup of IPAs, including their signature Point the Way IPA. This locale capitalizes on the California IPA trend, delivering bold flavors that are a testament to the regional love for this beer style.
For those partial to stouts and the robust character they bring, Eagle Rock Brewery is a stand-out. Their stout selection embraces the full-bodied texture and depth for which this style is known.
Amid the challenges of the pandemic, these breweries have shown resilience, often adjusting their operations to continue serving their communities safely. The attention to flavor and variety that these local craft beer hubs maintain has made them pillars of the community for both casual drinkers and beer connoisseurs.
The Craft Beer Culture in Glendale
In Glendale, California, craft beer enthusiasts have cultivated a vibrant scene that embodies the region's commitment to community and quality. This Los Angeles suburb provides a diverse selection of craft beers, offering a reflection of the unique tastes and innovative spirit that define the area.
Local establishments such as The Famous highlight the communal nature of Glendale’s craft beer culture. Patrons can gather with friends to explore a myriad of craft beer options, including highly acclaimed selections from breweries like Epic Brewing. Various venues also contribute to the city’s camaraderie, where connoisseurs and newbies alike can bond over shared appreciations.
Paperback Brewing emerges as a novel experience with its pulp novel-themed taproom, bolstering the local craft beer narrative. Its front patio and open-air brewhouse make it a perfect daytime destination for both individual exploration and social gatherings.
Highland Park Brewery extends Glendale’s reach into Los Angeles, advocating not just for the selling of beer, but for the selling of an engaging experience. This ethos resonates across Glendale's beer culture, where craft beer is more than a beverage—it's a medium for discovery and enjoyment.
Noteworthy Mention Location/Contact Notable Features Highland Park Brewery 5125 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042 Emphasis on community and new experiences Paperback Brewing 422 Magnolia Ave, Glendale Outdoor seating and unique themes
Craft beer in Glendale is a testament to the area's dedication to selection, quality, and community-building. It stands as a distinguished aspect of the broader Los Angeles craft beer landscape, encouraging exploration and the formation of lasting bonds over a shared love for finely crafted brews.
Design and Ambiance
Glendale's craft beer scene marries vintage charm with modern flair, offering a variety of taprooms and bars that boast distinctive interiors and welcoming outdoor areas. Each establishment displays a unique character reflecting the local culture and the artistry of craft beer.
Interiors of Local Tap Rooms
The interior design of Glendale's taprooms often incorporates elements from the city's history and the spirit of the craft beer movement. An example is The Glendale Tap, characterized by a bar top crafted from reclaimed bowling lanes, enhancing its rustic and vintage allure. These spaces prioritize comfort and community, enticing beer enthusiasts to linger over their carefully curated taps.
Unique Features: Reclaimed materials, vintage decor
Atmosphere: Welcoming, community-centric
Outdoor Areas and Al Fresco Drinking
Many taprooms in Glendale extend their charm outdoors, featuring al fresco drinking spaces where patrons can enjoy the sunny climate. Outdoor areas range from simple patios to more elaborate setups with food trucks and live music, catering to a relaxed and social atmosphere.
Outdoor Elements: Patios, beer gardens, food trucks
Purpose: Social gatherings, casual drinking environments
The Art of The Craft Beer Establishment
Craft beer bars in Glendale showcase not just their beers, but also the artistry behind their spaces. This approach can be seen in the attention to detail and aesthetic choices, from the choice of tap handles to the lighting fixtures. They aim to create not just a place to drink, but an experience that resonates with the local culture and the craft itself.
Aesthetic Details: Carefully selected tap handles, bespoke lighting
Cultural Resonance: Reflective of Glendale's local culture and community
Supporting Local: The Impact of Craft Beer on Glendale's Economy
Glendale, California, has witnessed a burgeoning craft beer scene that has provided a notable economic stimulus to the local community. The presence of these small, independent breweries has illuminated the role of craft beer as a catalyst for business growth and community development.
Local businesses often experience a symbiotic relationship with craft breweries. The latter attract a diverse clientele, which in return, spurs increased foot traffic to surrounding shops, restaurants, and services, fostering an ecosystem of economic activity. For instance, Glendale's craft beer festivals and taproom events draw in residents and tourists alike, providing more than just a pint of beer - they offer a communal space that bolsters the local business fabric.
Economic Contributions:
Craft breweries in Glendale contribute taxed revenue, which supports city services and infrastructure.
Job creation extends beyond the breweries themselves, affecting supply chains that include local farms and producers.
The impact on the Glendale community is not solely economic. Breweries often forge a sense of connectivity among residents, encouraging a culture of 'buying local,' which in turn, cultivates an affinity for community-driven initiatives. By investing in quality and local ingredients, Glendale's craft beer establishments not only enhance the flavor profiles sought by enthusiasts but also fortify the bonds within their community fabric.
In conclusion, Glendale's economy benefits from the vibrancy and entrepreneurship of the local craft beer landscape. Embracing these establishments contributes to sustaining a dynamic and economically robust local ecosystem.
Navigating the Craft Beer Scene
In Glendale, California, one finds themselves at the heart of a vibrant craft beer movement. The city boasts a scene that provides both selection and variety, catering to enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The Glendale Tap stands out with its commendable range of choices, featuring 52 taps that supply not just local brews but also selections from across the globe.
This eclectic collection is housed in an atmosphere rich with vintage design elements, adding charm to the experience. Here, one can delve into the tastes of Glendale while surrounded by decor that includes a bar top crafted from reclaimed bowling lanes. It’s a space where history and modernity blend seamlessly, mirroring the diversity of the beer offerings.
For those exploring the greater Eastside of Los Angeles, the craft beer selections expand further. A distinct marker of the area's dedication to the craft is the sheer number of breweries and brewpubs that dot the county. Local guides and maps can be indispensable in navigating these options, often exceeding 30 different locations.
Glendale's location in Southern California positions it as an influential player in the craft beer landscape. Establishments like The Famous and Talon Tap & Wine enrich the community with their meticulously curated craft beer and wine assortments. These venues not only stand as pillars of the local scene but also reflect the wider influence that Southern California exerts over the craft beer culture.
Visitors and residents alike can take advantage of resources such as the Beer Finder to plan their own beer tours, ensuring they sample the finest Glendale has to offer. The following provides a focused list of some leading spots:
The Glendale Tap
The Famous
Talon Tap & Wine
Village Liquor & Wine
Each location brings its own distinct flair to Glendale’s beer tapestry, presenting aficionados with a bounty of choices.
Women in the Craft Beer Industry
The craft beer scene in Glendale, CA, like many places, is experiencing a shift as women continue to make significant strides in the industry. While men have predominantly owned breweries, women are increasingly establishing themselves as powerful figures in the craft beer community through ownership, brewing, and advocacy.
Ownership and Leadership Women ownership of breweries may still be a small percentage, but they are influential, helming operations, and steering the business side with determination and strategic acumen. They are creating inclusive spaces that prioritize equality and community engagement.
Brewing Prowess Female brewers are dismantling stereotypes, showcasing their prowess in recipe creation and production. Their contributions to flavor innovation and brewing techniques help diversify the range of craft beers available to aficionados.
Community Influence These entrepreneurs and artisans are building communities through events and partnerships, focusing on collaboration rather than competition. They work toward creating a more inclusive craft beer culture that welcomes diversity and encourages more women to explore and enjoy the craft beer industry.
Advocacy and Representation They advocate for the representation of women in the industry, addressing issues of gender disparity while mentoring the next generation of female brewers. These efforts contribute to a gradual but noticeable transformation in the once male-dominated field.
By infusing the craft beer industry with fresh perspectives and dedication to quality and community, women in Glendale are helping redefine the craft beer experience for producers and consumers alike.
Expert Reviews and Ratings
In Glendale, CA, the local craft beer scene has garnered attention for its variety and unique selections. Expert reviews and customer ratings provide a window into the quality and diversity of the offerings.
Customer Review Aggregates
Craft beer enthusiasts often turn to platforms like Yelp to share their experiences. A compilation of customer feedback emphasizes a positive reception for places like The Famous, known for its expansive selection of craft beers, including offerings from Epic Brewing. Additionally, Talon Tap & Wine has been recognized for superior craft beer and wine choices, along with commendable service.
The Famous: Numerous reviews applaud the bar for its impressive craft beer roster.
Talon Tap & Wine: Customers mention the exceptional variety and knowledgeable staff.
Professional Critiques and Awards
While individual patrons provide valuable insights, professional accolades and critique also play a pivotal role. Breweries in Glendale such as Brewyard Beer Company, Golden Road Brewing, Lincoln Beer Company, and Trustworthy Brewing have been noted by beer experts for their contributions to the craft beer landscape.
Golden Road Brewing: Highlighted for creativity and consistent quality in their brews.
Lincoln Beer Company: Recognized for distinctive flavors that resonate with beer connoisseurs.
Across these establishments, the consistent theme in reviews and professional recognition is a commitment to quality, variety in selection, and the uniqueness of the beer offerings in Glendale.
The Future of Craft Beer in Glendale
As the craft beer landscape continues to evolve, Glendale's local breweries demonstrate resilience and adaptation in the face of industry shifts and a post-pandemic market. These businesses have cultivated not just a product, but a community ethos, anchoring themselves as social hubs where discovery and enjoyment flourish.
Industry Trends:
Post-Pandemic Recovery: Glendale breweries like Paperback Brewing navigated the pandemic with innovation, signaling a robust future trajectory for local craft beer ventures.
Community Focus: Establishments such as Highland Park Brewery prioritize creating community connections, a trend likely to spur customer loyalty and ongoing success.
Local Business Climate:
New Entrants: The arrival of Brewyard Beer Co. as Glendale's first craft brewery has paved the way for others, suggesting a welcoming business environment.
Growth Potential: With a receptive community and a high interest in craft beer, the potential for new breweries and expansion of existing ones in Glendale exists.
Craft Beer Variety:
Creative Offerings: Propelled by the desire for novel flavors, local breweries are anticipated to continue diversifying their beer selections.
Quality Emphasis: Consistent with broader trends, Glendale's craft beer scene will likely maintain a strong emphasis on quality and artisanal brewing techniques.
The future of craft beer in Glendale appears promising. By intertwining business acumen with a community-centric approach, Glendale's breweries are well-positioned to thrive within the dynamic craft beer industry.
Glossary of Craft Beer Terms
Ales: A type of beer brewed using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, full-bodied and fruity taste. Ales encompass a variety of styles, including but not limited to bitter ales, pale ales, and brown ales.
Lagers: Beers characterized by their cold fermentation process, which gives them a cleaner, crisper taste compared to ales. Common lagers include pilsners and a variety of light and dark lagers.
Saisons: Originating from the Wallonia region of Belgium, saisons are a type of farmhouse ale. They are typically golden to amber in color, have a high level of carbonation, and often feature fruity and spicy flavors.
Stouts: A dark, rich beer with a flavor profile that includes chocolate, coffee, and caramel. Stouts come in several varieties, with the most famous being the dry Irish stout.
Hazy IPA: Also known as New England IPA (NEIPA), this style is known for its cloudy appearance and juicy, fruit-forward hop presence. The haze comes from certain grains, yeast, and hop compounds left in suspension.
Cerveza: While not a beer style itself, it's commonly used to refer to light, crisp lagers produced in Latin America.
Pilsner: A type of pale lager that takes its name from the city of Pilsen, Czech Republic. It offers a clear golden color with a clean, bitter flavor from the specific use of noble hops.
Craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse flavors these styles bring to the burgeoning Glendale, CA craft beer scene. Each term correlates with a distinct brewing tradition and flavor profile that connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike can explore and appreciate.
