Huntington Beach, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Directory
Huntington Beach, California, affectionately known as Surf City USA, is not only famous for its picturesque coastline and consistent waves but also for its thriving craft beer scene. Local breweries have cultivated a culture that reflects the laid-back yet adventurous spirit of the city, offering residents and visitors alike an array of unique and flavorful beers. With a passion for quality and innovation, these establishments are contributing to California's renowned craft beer reputation.
The city's breweries have become a pivotal part of the local identity, with each telling its own story through distinctive brews. From beachfront taprooms to hidden gems nestled in the heart of this coastal community, there's a diverse range of settings in which to enjoy a handcrafted pint. The craft beer aficionados will find everything from hop-forward IPAs and robust stouts to experimental sours and seasonals that echo the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
As Surf City USA continues to embrace its craft beer movement, beer enthusiasts are invited to explore the various breweries Huntington Beach has to offer. Whether one is after a classic beer style or something innovative inspired by a myriad of flavors, the local craft beer community is sure to provide a memorable tasting experience that complements the city's surf culture.
The Craft Beer Scene of Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach, often referred to as Surf City USA, has gained a reputation well beyond its iconic waves and sandy shores. At its heart, a thriving craft beer scene beckons beer aficionados and casual sippers alike, with local breweries showcasing a blend of innovation and tradition in Southern California.
History of Brewing in Huntington Beach
The history of brewing in Huntington Beach is intertwined with the city's evolution from a quiet beach town to a bustling community. The brewing tradition dates back several decades, with a gradual shift from mainstream lagers to more innovative and locally crafted beers. As the city grew, so did its taste for unique brews, setting the stage for the craft beer movement to take root in the community.
Rise of Craft Beer Culture
The rise of craft beer culture in Huntington Beach reflects a broader trend across Southern California, where there's a growing appreciation for artisanal and small-batch beers. New breweries emerge steadily, each offering their own unique twist on brewing and contributing to the dense tapestry of the city's craft beer landscape. These breweries not only serve the locals but also attract visitors looking to experience the authentic Huntington Beach lifestyle through its distinctive flavors.
Top Breweries in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is home to a burgeoning craft beer scene, boasting a diverse array of breweries ranging from family-owned businesses to modern establishments offering unique and award-winning brews.
Riip Beer Co.
Riip Beer Co. emerges as one of the local favorites, offering handcrafted beers along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. As a testament to its mastery, the company infuses Coastal California culture into every pint, attracting beer aficionados with its quality and ambiance.
Beachwood Brewing
Beachwood Brewing is renowned for its exceptional lineup of beers. At its Huntington Beach location, Beachwood continues to impress with its innovative and flavorful brews, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of the craft beer community in the area.
Green Cheek Beer Co.
With a flair for creativity and excellence, Green Cheek Beer Co. stands out for its modern take on brewing. This brewery embodies a forward-thinking approach to craft beer, evidenced by their collection of refreshing and crowd-pleasing beers.
Four Sons Brewing
A true family-owned gem, Four Sons Brewing brings a personal touch to the Huntington Beach beer scene. Their diverse selection of high-quality beers showcases the passion and craftsmanship that have become synonymous with the family name.
Huntington Beach Beer Company
As one of the veterans, Huntington Beach Beer Company is a staple for both locals and visitors. This brewery prides itself on offering a wide range of traditional and contemporary beers, making it a trusted establishment for those looking to experience the heart of Surf City's beer culture.
Distinctive Brews and Local Favorites
Huntington Beach boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with a host of local breweries offering an eclectic selection of beers. The community has embraced several standouts for their unique approach to brewing and flavorful concoctions.
Riip Beer Company has carved out a reputation with their innovative beers. Located on Pacific Coast Highway, this small brewery is not only a local favorite but also a destination for visitors seeking award-winning craft beers. Their selection often incorporates bold hop flavors, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the craft beer landscape.
Over at The Bruery Terreux, patrons are introduced to a range of sour beers, a distinct offering that sets this brewery apart from others in the area. This event space is recognized for its mastery over classic beer styles, while also pushing the envelope with food and beverage-inspired brews.
Green Cheek Beer Company is another establishment that has made a significant impact with its commitment to fresh, quality beers. They emphasize a deep understanding of hops, which is evident in the complex flavor profiles of their offerings. The brewery tends to focus on producing memorable, hop-forward beers.
For those exploring Huntington Beach's beer selection, the following table highlights each brewery's signature elements:
Brewery Notable Aspects
Riip Beer Company Award-winning craft beers, hop-centric selections
The Bruery Terreux Innovative sour beers, food-inspired flavors
Green Cheek Beer Company Fresh, hop-forward beers, quality ingredients
Each brewery contributes to the rich tapestry that makes Huntington Beach's beer scene a treasure for locals and a worthy exploration for beer aficionados everywhere.
The Brewery Experience
In Huntington Beach, the local craft beer scene impresses with engaging tours, diverse tasting rooms, and an array of food pairings complemented by entertaining events and games.
Brewery Tours
Brewery tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the beer-making process. Visitors can observe the intricate brewing operations and often get the chance to meet the masterminds behind their favorite drinks. The tours can range from detailed walkthroughs of the brewing and fermentation areas to brief overviews accompanied by a guide.
Tasting Rooms
Tasting rooms in Huntington Beach invites guests to sample the latest and greatest brews. Riip Beer Company is known for its cozy atmosphere and a great selection of unique beers. Here, one can savor an array of flavors, from classic ales to innovative new concoctions, often in a flight format to get a true sense of the brewery's range.
Food Pairings
Craft breweries in Huntington Beach often feature diverse food menus or host food trucks to complement their beverages. Visitors can enjoy everything from snacks to full meals that are curated to enhance the flavors of the beers. Options might include gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, (What wine goes well with pizza?) or local seafood, perfect for amplifying the tasting experience.
Events & Games
Breweries in Huntington Beach are hubs of activity, hosting a variety of events such as quiz nights, live music performances, and holiday-themed festivities. Additionally, games like cornhole or board games are commonly available, providing a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. Reviews often praise the lively environment and how it contributes to the enjoyment of the craft beer experience.
Dining Options & Craft Beer Pairings
In Huntington Beach, the craft beer scene complements an array of culinary delights, offering perfect pairings for food enthusiasts and beer connoisseurs alike.
Signature Dishes
Pineapple Bacon Jalapeño Pizza typically comes with a bold combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The pairing of a craft IPA, with its hoppy bitterness, balances the sweetness of the pineapple and the heat from the jalapeños. Riip Beer Company offers a selection of unique and award-winning craft beers that would enhance the experience of this vibrant dish.
Suggested Pairing: IPA to counterbalance both sweetness and heat
Venue: Riip Beer Company
Local Delicacies with Craft Beer
For those opting for gluten-free dining, Matter of Craft provides excellent options, including a gluten-free crust that ensures everyone can enjoy their pizza. Pairing a gluten-free crust with a light Pilsner or Blonde Ale from a local brewery like Four Sons Brewing can elevate the dining experience, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that caters to dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
Suggested Pairing: Light Pilsner or Blonde Ale to complement the lightness of the gluten-free crust
Venue: Four Sons Brewing
When visiting these establishments, one can expect attentive service as employees are generally known for their knowledge about beer pairings and willingness to provide recommendations to enhance the dining experience.
Staff Tip: Don't hesitate to ask employees for pairing suggestions to fully enjoy the local craft beer and food scene.
Craft Beer Beyond the Breweries
In Huntington Beach, the craft beer experience extends well beyond the local breweries. Visitors and locals alike can discover a diverse selection of craft beers at many bars, pubs, and restaurants, often paired with innovative cocktails and gourmet food offerings that complement the brews.
Local Bars and Pubs
Huntington Beach's bars and pubs often curate an extensive selection of local craft beers. The Pump Room is a prime example, known for spotlighting a variety of craft beers that residents and tourists can enjoy. HQ Gastropub - Huntington Beach merges a vibrant ambiance with a craft beer lineup that satisfies enthusiasts looking to try something new. These spots not only serve beers but also often feature cocktail options, making them a versatile choice for any drinker.
Restaurants Featuring Craft Beers
Restaurants in Huntington Beach have embraced the craft beer movement by incorporating these flavorful brews into their beverage programs. Establishments like Mama's On 39 offer a glimpse into the intricate pairing of brews with their hearty American food menu. Additionally, Beachwood Pizza & Beer combines the love for pizza with a selection of craft beers, ensuring a complementary dining experience. Visitors can expect to find dedicated beer pairings that enhance both the culinary flavors and the distinct notes of the craft beers.
Beyond Beer: Exploring Local Distilleries
While Huntington Beach is renowned for its craft beer, local distilleries are carving out their own space in the city's vibrant drinks scene. At the forefront is Surf City Still Works, which holds the distinction of being Huntington Beach's first craft distillery. With a recent investment of $2.7 million, they are expanding their operations to become the second largest distillery in Southern California.
Surf City Still Works is setting a high bar with a future tasting room and kitchen, which promises a seasonal selection of spirits and dishes curated by a 2 star Michelin chef and a master mixologist. The distillery's offerings extend beyond taste to an entire experience that reflects the local culture and community spirit.
Local Distilleries in Huntington Beach:
Surf City Still Works: Known for its artisan spirits and upcoming tasting room.
Other Local Offerings: As the craft beverage scene thrives, additional distilleries may emerge, following the trend of bespoke, quality spirits.
For the Spirits Enthusiast:
Tasting Rooms: A well-rounded experience with food pairings.
Craft Spirits: A focus on quality and small-batch production.
Huntington Beach's distillery scene, although in the shadow of its breweries, is on the rise. These establishments offer a distinct alternative for those looking to venture beyond the familiar realm of hops and malt. Visitors and locals alike can discover innovative spirits and partake in tastings that underscore the richness of the city's craft beverage culture.
Promoting Responsible Drinking
Exploring Huntington Beach’s local craft beer is an exciting way to appreciate the region’s creative brews, but it's essential to approach this experience with responsibility.
Plan Your Transportation:
Designate a Driver: Always have someone in your group commit to not drinking and be responsible for driving.
Public Transport: Research local bus or shuttle services available in the area.
Ride-Sharing: Utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft to ensure a safe return home.
Know Your Limits:
Pace Yourself: Drink slowly and savor the flavors. Craft beer is for enjoying, not rushing.
Hydrate: Drink water between beers to stay hydrated and moderate alcohol consumption.
Understand the Beer:
ABV Awareness: Be aware of the Alcohol by Volume (ABV) in different brews, as craft beers often have a higher ABV than standard lagers.
Enjoying craft beer responsibly is key to a positive experience. Be mindful of your intake, plan ahead for transportation, and savor each pint thoughtfully.
Sunset Beach and Craft Beer Tastings
Sunset Beach, a charming oceanfront community within Huntington Beach, is a hidden gem for craft beer enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in the pleasure of tastings along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. Green Cheek Beer Co., located at 16685 Pacific Coast Highway, offers an impressive lineup of beers crafted with innovation and quality.
Craft Beer Experience at Green Cheek Beer Co.:
Tasting Room Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 11 am - 9 pm
Friday - Saturday: 11 am - 10 pm
Sunday: 11 am - 9 pm
Offerings:
On-site Kitchen
Curbside Pickup
Patrons savor the flavors of distinct brews, each telling its own story. The tasting room is designed to welcome all—from casual drinkers to beer aficionados—ensuring an experience that caters to every palate.
The staff at Green Cheek ensure visitors leave with a better understanding of each pour, adhering to the warm reputation of Sunset Beach establishments. The relaxed atmosphere coupled with the fresh ocean breeze provides a memorable tasting affair.
While savoring their craft beer, customers can also enjoy food pairings that accentuate the beer's profile from their scratch kitchen—a delightful addition to the tasting adventure. For those seeking a coastal experience alongside quality craft beer, Sunset Beach is an impeccable choice.
Visitor's Guide to Huntington Beach Craft Beer
Huntington Beach, California, affectionately known as Surf City USA, offers a rich palette for craft beer enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local beer culture that boasts a variety of independent breweries and tasting rooms, each offering unique and flavorful brews.
Key Destinations:
Riip Beer Company: With its location at 17214 Pacific Coast Highway, this brewery has become a staple for both locals and visitors. They open their doors daily starting at 11:00 AM. Their spacious tasting room and dog-friendly patio make for a relaxing day out. While they do not serve food, there are numerous local restaurants nearby.
The Bruery -Terreux Event Space: Known for classic beer styles and an always fresh selection, they also delve into culinary-inspired beer creations.
Experience Local Flavors:
Breweries to Visit:
Cheers to HB: Features a selection of breweries that elevate the craft of beer making.
Riip Beer Company: Offers a superb location for enjoying craft beers by the beach.
Downtown Breweries: Wander along the Surf City USA Barrel Trail to explore multiple craft breweries and distilleries in the heart of Huntington Beach.
Important Details:
Operating Hours: It's best to check individual brewery websites or contact them directly for the most accurate hours of operation.
Dining Options: Some breweries might not provide food, but the vibrant local dining scene perfectly complements the craft beer experience.
Should there be inquiries about the craft beer scene or specific destinations like the Surf City USA Barrel Trail, Visit Huntington Beach can be reached for information and assistance. Enjoy Huntington Beach's craft beer scene responsibly and cherish the taste of the coast.
Conclusion
Huntington Beach's craft beer landscape is a testament to the city's love for quality and variety in brewing. Local breweries not only emphasize classic flavors but also bring innovative twists to the table, reflecting the area's eclectic taste. Patrons can indulge in a range of options, from the food-inspired brews of The Bruery - Terreux Event Space to the timeless offerings at Flashpoint Brewing Company.
The city's beer scene is tailored to cater to all preferences, whether one prefers a bustling patio atmosphere or an intimate taproom experience. Among the top picks, Flashpoint Brewing Company stands out with its address at 7302 Autopark Dr, along with its spacious patio that encapsulates the vibrant Huntington Beach vibe.
Matter of Craft, Riip Beer Company, and others add to the diversity of local craft beer bars, providing an array of unique and award-winning selections served by friendly staff. Beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike can find solace in the fact that quality brews are a staple in Huntington Beach. Local breweries take pride in their craft, ensuring that every pint is a celebration of the city's passionate brewing culture.
