Pasadena, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider's List to the Best Brews
Pasadena, California, often associated with its historic Rose Bowl and thriving cultural scene, is also a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Valley, the city's burgeoning craft beer scene attracts both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. With its collection of gastropubs, taprooms, and breweries, Pasadena offers a wealth of options, showcasing a range of styles from hoppy IPAs to robust stouts.
Local establishments like Kings Row Gastropub epitomize Pasadena's dedication to craft beers, featuring an array of California brews that pair perfectly with their menus of elevated pub fare. The historic ambiance of Old Pasadena, along with its cluster of craft beer spots, underscores the community's blend of tradition with contemporary tastes. Whether visitors are seeking a casual beer garden experience or an extensive selection of draught beers, this city’s craft beer offerings are designed to satisfy diverse palates.
Pasadena's craft beer destinations are often praised for their unique atmospheres, and the growth of the local brewing scene indicates a vibrant future. While Old Town serves as a walkable epicenter for beer lovers, the rest of the city continues to emerge as a destination for those looking to explore the flavors and communities forged by Pasadena's craft beer artisans. Whether a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the craft beer world, one can confidently navigate Pasadena's landscape with the assurance of finding quality brews that encapsulate the spirit of local craftsmanship.
History of Craft Beer in Pasadena
The craft beer scene in Pasadena has a deeply rooted history and a dynamic character, reflecting the broader trends from Los Angeles and the state's brewing history. Here's an exploration of its emergence, LA's influence, and the evolution of local beer tastes.
The Emergence of Local Breweries
In the early days of Pasadena's craft beer movement, a handful of pioneering establishments laid the groundwork for a flourishing scene. While Pasadena itself may not have been the birthplace of craft brewing, the city holds its own with notable locales like Kings Row Gastropub, which has become a cornerstone in the local beer community. They began by offering an array of Californian craft beers, complemented by a menu that celebrated local produce and beer-friendly cuisine.
Kings Row Gastropub
Notable for: Historic setting, 24 Californian craft beers on draught
Cuisine: Elevated pub grub with local ingredients
Influence of Los Angeles Craft Beer Scene
Pasadena's craft beer culture does not exist in isolation; it is significantly influenced by the burgeoning craft beer movement in Los Angeles. The city's proximity to LA has allowed it to tap into a larger community of beer enthusiasts and industry innovators. Los Angeles has served as a catalyst for spreading the popularity of craft beers, with Pasadena's bars, restaurants, and gastropubs curating selections that cater to a sophisticated palette developed in the larger metro region.
Influence Indicators
Community Engagement: Inspired by the trends in LA.
Selection: A wide range offered, mirroring the diverse LA scene.
Evolution of Beer Tastes in Pasadena
Pasadena's beer tastes have evolved significantly as consumers' preferences have shifted towards more artisanal and diverse offerings. A reflection of Southern California's adventurous and health-conscious tendencies, local breweries and drinking establishments have started showcasing beers that are not only bold in flavor but also boast local and organic ingredients, often served alongside artisanal and locally sourced food.
Trends in Taste
Artisanal Focus: Emphasizing complex, nuanced flavors.
Organic Offerings: Incorporating local, sustainably sourced ingredients.
The community's palate versatility is showcased through events and platforms like OpenTap, aiming to connect craft beer lovers with local brewers—a testament to the ongoing growth and adaptation within Pasadena's craft beer narrative.
Pasadena's Premier Craft Breweries
Pasadena is home to a flourishing craft beer scene, boasting several notable establishments renowned for their artisanal brews and inviting tasting rooms. Here, craft beer enthusiasts can expect a delightful array of handcrafted beers that showcase both traditional methods and innovative brewing techniques.
Craftsman Brewing Company
Craftsman Brewing Company stands as a forerunner in the local craft beer movement. Reflecting over two decades of brewing excellence, this pioneering establishment features a portfolio of beers that honor the intricacies of traditional styles while embracing modern flavors. The brewery is well-regarded for its attention to detail and commitment to quality handcrafted beer.
Ohana Brewing
Ohana Brewing represents the younger generation of craft breweries, imprinting its spirit of 'ohana', meaning family, onto the Pasadena craft beer community. Situated with a prime focus on small-batch, flavor-driven brews, Ohana's approach is about thoughtful experimentation merged with a deep respect for brewing artisanship. Their tasting room serves as a hub where new flavors are celebrated and crafted with care.
Stone Brewing Tap Room
A prominent figure on the craft brewing stage, Stone Brewing Tap Room Pasadena ensures a robust selection of beers that resonate with the brewery's bold and uncompromising reputation. Famed for its assertive and innovative craft beers, this tap room offers aficionados a chance to savor Stone's signature offerings alongside exclusive Pasadena-only brews in an environment tailored for discovery and appreciation of finer hops and malts.
Popular Craft Beer Bars and Taprooms
Pasadena's craft beer scene is vibrant, with a diverse array of bars and taprooms that showcase an extensive selection of local brews. These establishments take pride in their carefully curated beer offerings, each with its own unique atmosphere.
Congregation Ale House
Location: Pasadena, CA
Notable Features:
Taps: A wide variety of Californian craft beers.
Atmosphere: Gothic-themed pub with long wooden benches and stained glass decor.
The Congregation Ale House is a well-known stop for craft beer enthusiasts, presenting a Pasadena chapter that not only serves a rotational list of regional brews but also pairs them with savory pub-style dishes.
Kings Row Gastropub
Location: Historic landmark in Old Pasadena
Notable Features:
Beer Garden: Inviting outdoor seating.
Taps: 24 Californian craft beers on draught.
Menu: Elevated pub grub made with local ingredients.
The Kings Row Gastropub resides in a structure full of history and character. Their focus is on showcasing a diverse collection of tap offerings from across California, complemented by a food menu that celebrates the pairing of great beer with hearty cuisine.
The Blind Donkey
Location: Pasadena, CA
Notable Features:
Whiskey Selection: Extensive, alongside craft beers.
Atmosphere: Laid-back with a rustic charm.
Although better known for its impressive whiskey line-up, The Blind Donkey also serves a respectable selection of craft beers. They strike a balance between offering a choice beer bar experience and maintaining a relaxed ambiance where patrons can enjoy a pint or two in a casual setting.
Guide to Pasadena Beer Festivals
Pasadena, known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks, also showcases an enthusiastic dedication to craft beer through various festivals throughout the year. Beer aficionados can revel in Pasadena beer festivals that highlight the city's local breweries and offer an array of unique brews.
Pasadena Beer Craft Week
One of the standout celebrations is the Pasadena Beer Craft Week. This event typically spans several days, featuring tap takeovers, brewery tours, and beer pairing dinners hosted by local establishments.
Events: Exclusive tastings, educational panels
Highlights: Collaboration brew releases
Oktoberfest Celebrations
Come autumn, Pasadena embraces the spirit of Oktoberfest with traditional German festivities, lagers, and ales. A number of Pasadena's breweries and pubs pay homage to this Bavarian festival, offering special events with German music, foods, and of course, Oktoberfest beers.
When: October
What: German-themed brews, food, and music
Annual Pasadena Beer Festival
The city also hosts a major beer festival annually, attracting craft beer lovers to enjoy a variety of craft beers from local and regional breweries.
Activities: Live music, food trucks
Focus: Showcasing Pasadena and Southern California breweries
Attendees are encouraged to indulge responsibly, with events often providing educational content on craft beer culture. Check local event listings for the most up-to-date information on festival dates, ticket prices, and participating breweries.
Best Happy Hour Spots for Craft Beer
Pasadena offers an array of vibrant spots where aficionados can enjoy craft beer during happy hour. The city showcases a selection of venues in Old Pasadena and along Colorado Boulevard, each with its unique offerings and specials.
Old Pasadena Favorites
Kings Row Gastropub stands out as a historical landmark in Old Pasadena that combines a full patio bar and a beer garden for an ideal happy hour escape. Their selection of craft beer is complemented by classic pub cuisine. Happy hour enthusiasts can find great deals here from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. Live music from Thursday to Sunday adds to the atmosphere.
Congregation Ale House is another Old Pasadena gem with its beer program that heavily features California brews with 24 taps in rotation. The generous happy hours here last from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, and an extended session from 10:00 p.m. until midnight Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to midnight.
Colorado Boulevard Hotspots
Along Colorado Boulevard, Craft by Smoke & Fire - Pasadena provides a welcoming setting for happy hour seekers. Customers can enjoy a selection of craft beers and modern American cuisine. The happy hour at this location is renowned for its value and variety.
The Blind Donkey, a local favorite on Colorado Boulevard, delivers an ever-changing array of craft beers. This bar is well-known for its cozy atmosphere and an extensive list of beers during their happy hour, which is one of the most eager-anticipated in the area.
Craft Beer Pairings and Cuisine
Pasadena's craft beer scene offers a variety of flavors that pair exquisitely with both classic pub cuisine and innovative vegetarian dishes (What wine goes well with vegetarian dishes?).
Gastropub Delights
Gastropubs in Pasadena serve elevated pub grub that goes hand-in-hand with the local Californian craft beers. Kings Row Gastropub, for instance, pairs its 24 California craft beers on draft with a menu that includes tasty options like burgers, hot dogs, and sausages. One of the standout pairings is a bold IPA matched with a spicy sausage, where the hoppiness of the beer cuts through the richness of the meat.
Beer Pairing Sample:
IPA: Complements Spicy Sausage
Stout: Pairs with a juicy Burger
Pilsner: Balances a flavorful Hot Dog
Each of these pairings is designed to enhance both the dish and the brew, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Vegetarian Options and Beer
Vegetarian diners have ample choices for beer pairings as well. Establishments like Dog Haus, which is known for its hot dogs, also offers vegetarian options that can be beautifully complemented by a light lager or wheat beer. The freshness of a salad or the savory notes of a veggie burger find their perfect match in Pasadena's craft beer offerings.
Vegetarian Pairing Suggestions:
Light Lager: With Hearty Veggie Burgers
Wheat Beer: Alongside Fresh Salads
These pairings consider the delicate flavors of vegetarian cuisine, ensuring that the beer enhances rather than overwhelms the dish.
International Influence on Local Brews
Pasadena's craft beer scene showcases a global tapestry, with local brewers embracing and infusing traditional Belgian and German brewing techniques and flavors into their offerings.
Belgian Inspirations
Local Pasadena breweries have taken a page from Belgium's storied brewing book, incorporating unique yeasts and age-old styles into their lineup. They approach beer-making with a Belgian twist, particularly in the use of distinctive Belgian yeast strains, which impart a range of flavors from fruity to spicy. Beer cheese, a spreadable gastronomic delight, often accompanies these Belgian-inspired brews, underscoring the communal and convivial spirit of Pasadena's beer culture.
Belgian Yeast Strains: A hallmark of many Belgian beers, known for producing distinctive flavors.
Beer Cheese Pairings: Often served with Belgian-style ales, enhancing the tasting experience.
German Flavors and Festivities
In homage to Germany's rich brewing heritage, Pasadena brewers have integrated classic German styles into their repertoires. From crisp, clean lagers to the more robust, malty marzens served during Oktoberfest celebrations, local breweries respect German purity laws by showcasing brews made traditionally, with only water, hops, malt, and yeast. Festivities reminiscent of Germany’s famous beer festivals also find a home in Pasadena, where beer enthusiasts gather to celebrate their shared passion for quality craftsmanship in brewing.
German Lagers and Marzens: Emphasizing purity and traditional ingredients.
Oktoberfest Celebrations: Festive events featuring German-style beers and community gathering.
Craft Beer Retail and Home Brewing
Pasadena's craft beer scene offers more than just a sip at the bar; it extends to retail experiences and resources for aspiring brewmasters. For enthusiasts looking to enjoy draft quality at home or acquire the tools for brewing, Pasadena caters to both.
Growler Stations
Pasadena features several venues where patrons can fill growlers with their favorite craft beers. Growler stations are equipped with a variety of draught beers, from classic ales to seasonal specialties. Stone Brewing Tap Room, for instance, offers growler fills of flagship beers alongside a selection of experimental batches.
Popular Growler Fill Locations:
Stone Brewing Tap Room
Select local breweries and beer-focused retail stores
Each location prides itself on providing a range of options to ensure freshness and quality for take-home craft beer.
Home Brewing Supplies
Those intrigued by the art of beer-making will find Pasadena well-stocked with essential home brewing supplies. Aspiring brewmasters have access to ingredients, equipment, and advice necessary to begin or continue their home-brewing journey. Local shops empower individuals to create their own brews by offering a variety of hops, yeasts, malts, and more.
Home Brewing Essentials:
Hops, yeast, and malt
Fermentation vessels
Bottling and capping tools
Local retailers equip brewers with the supplies to experiment with creating personalized beer from the comfort of their home.
Social Scene and Entertainment
Pasadena offers a vibrant scene where live music and sports entertainment meet a diverse selection of craft beers. Patrons can indulge in a rich array of flavors accompanied by varied entertainment options, from lively tunes to exciting game watches.
Live Music and Craft Beer
Kings Row Gastropub stands out as a prominent venue where visitors can enjoy live music from Thursday to Sunday. The gastropub is housed in a historic landmark of Old Pasadena and features a beer-friendly menu alongside a rotation of 24 Californian craft beers on draft. The blend of history and modern entertainment makes it a cherished locale for both music lovers and beer aficionados.
Sports Bars with Craft Beers
For sports enthusiasts, Pasadena doesn't disappoint with establishments like Kings Row Gastropub that double as a sports bar. Complete with a beer garden and full patio bar, it's a favored spot for catching the big game. Local brews are on tap for guests looking to pair their favorite sports with a craft beer experience. The focus on Californian draughts ensures a taste of local culture with every pint shared during the thrill of the game.
Bars with More Than Beer
While Pasadena is renowned for its craft beer offerings, the city also boasts a variety of establishments that cater to wine enthusiasts and spirits connoisseurs. Patrons can find upscale wine bars and cocktail lounges, each with its unique ambiance and selection.
Pasadena Wine Bars
Lucky Baldwin's serves more than just beer. As an established favorite, this British-style pub offers a variety of European wines that can be paired with their hearty pub fare. Patrons can savor the relaxed atmosphere along with a curated selection of reds and whites.
Vertical Wine Bistro provides an upscale wine-drinking experience, with a list that takes one on a journey through premier wine regions. Here, the selection emphasizes variety and quality, inviting guests to enjoy vintages by the glass or bottle in a sophisticated setting.
Cocktail Lounges and Whiskey Bars
For those with a penchant for mixology, The Blind Donkey specializes in whiskey and boasts a library of options. The bar’s talented mixologists craft cocktails that highlight the nuances of this storied spirit, from the smoky and peaty to the smooth and caramel-noted.
35er Bar brings a laid-back ambiance to its cocktail offerings. This local favorite spotlights classic cocktails alongside innovative creations, making it an ideal spot for both traditionalists and adventurers looking to indulge in a meticulously mixed drink.
In both wine bars and cocktail lounges, guests can trust that each sip comes with Pasadena's stamp of excellence—an assurance of both quality and an unforgettable experience.
User Reviews and Recommendations
To truly understand the craft beer scene in Pasadena, CA, one should consider the insights provided by local beer enthusiasts and travelers. These individuals often share their experiences and recommendations on platforms such as Yelp and social media.
What Locals Say on Yelp
Yelpers in Pasadena have consistently praised venues like Stone Brewing Tap Room for their extensive selection of craft beers. Wild Parrot Brewing Company and Congregation Ale House are also frequently mentioned for their distinctive brews and inviting atmospheres. Users specifically commend the happy hour deals, such as those at Dog Haus Biergarten, which offers reduced prices on California brews during weekday afternoons and late-night Mondays through Thursdays.
Happy Hours: Locals often mention establishments that provide generous happy hour times.
Brew Selection: Priority is given to places with multiple taps and a rotating selection of craft beers.
Traveler's Choice on Social Media
Travelers on platforms like Instagram and Twitter are vocal about their craft beer journeys in Pasadena. They typically share images of their favorite picks at places like Craftsman Brewing Company and the historic setting of Kings Row Gastropub. Reviews often emphasize the authenticity of the craft beer experience, the variety available, and the lively environments suited for enjoying a game or live music.
Authenticity: Travelers appreciate breweries that offer a genuine craft beer experience with unique local flavors.
Atmosphere: The social media posts highlight the importance of not only the beer quality but also the vibe of the venue, with a special nod to spots that provide live entertainment or outdoor seating.
Exploring the Craft Beer Movement
Pasadena, nestled in California's San Gabriel Valley, presents a unique blend of history and modernity, especially in its craft beer scene. The city's Old Town area stands out as a walkable center for shopping and dining but it's the presence of established craft breweries that adds a special flavor to this historic district.
One notable location is Kings Row Gastropub, which operates from a landmark building with charming exposed brick walls. Visitors can appreciate the well-curated selection of 24 Californian craft beers on draught, which are thoughtfully paired with a menu of locally sourced, beer-friendly fares.
Beer enthusiasts can also enjoy a unique experience at the Congregation Ale House, a craft beer bar with a historical twist. Sitting where the old Crown City Brewery once stood, Congregation Ale House now hosts a selection of house beers from the fledgling Congregation Brewing.
For those exploring beyond the confines of Old Pasadena, the local craft beer gems are scattered across the city, creating pockets of destinations that shouldn't be missed. A visit to Pasadena's craft breweries offers a glimpse into the area's blossoming community-oriented beer culture, extolled in local publications like the Pasadena Star-News.
The city's beer gardens and patios provide relaxed settings for sipping on the region’s finest ales and lagers. Pasadena’s craft beer destinations rank highly, reflecting the local community's appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. This robust craft beer movement represents more than just a passing trend; it's a vital part of Pasadena's current identity, bringing together locals and visitors alike.
Craft Beer Hotspots Noteworthy Features
Kings Row Gastropub Historic ambiance, 24 draughts, local ingredients
Congregation Ale House Historical site, unique house beers
British Pubs and Biergartens
In Pasadena, CA, aficionados of traditional British pubs and German-style biergartens are well catered for. Establishments such as Lucky Baldwin's Pub intertwine British charm with Californian flair, where patrons can expect a robust draft beer menu featuring over 60 taps. This includes both local and international selections, ensuring a pint for every palate.
Lucky Baldwin's, located on Raymond Avenue, presents an authentic pub experience with quintessential British fare like fish 'n' chips. They pride themselves on being one of the few spots to carry Pasadena's own Craftsman Brewing beer, embodying local brewing culture.
In the heart of Old Pasadena, venues like Kings Row Gastropub operate within historic buildings, offering a blend of the classic and contemporary. A beer-friendly menu complements the California-centric array of 24 craft beers on draught. Here, exposed brick walls set the scene for an intimate encounter with Pasadena's brewing best.
For those who favor outdoor drinking spaces, German-inspired biergartens offer the perfect setting. With sprawling patios and lively atmospheres, these establishments provide an inviting environment to enjoy craft beers and sunshine.
Pub/Biergarten Name Notable Features
Lucky Baldwin's Pub British ambiance, extensive draft selection, local brews
Kings Row Gastropub Historic setting, California craft beers, outdoor seating
Visitors should note that while British pubs offer a cozy, nostalgic environment, the biergartens emphasize a communal outdoor experience, often accompanied by live music or other entertainment. Both lend themselves to an exploration of flavorful drafts and the sociable culture that's alive in Pasadena's beer scene.
Conclusion
Pasadena, known for its rich cultural heritage, also boasts a vibrant craft beer scene that caters to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. The gastropubs, breweries, and taprooms dotted throughout the city make it a notable destination for anyone looking to sample local brews.
The historical charm of Old Pasadena melds seamlessly with modern craft beer culture at locations like Kings Row Gastropub, which not only offers a diverse range of Californian craft beers but also a menu that highlights local ingredients. Similarly, establishments such as Congregation Ale House pay homage to the city’s brewing history, promising patrons a unique blend of tradition and contemporary beer crafting.
Outdoor spaces such as beer gardens are common, providing an inviting al fresco experience that's perfect for Southern California's climate. For instance, Stone Brewing Tap Room features a comfortable patio, ideal for enjoying flagship beers and limited releases.
Pasadena’s craft beer offerings are both geographically and stylistically diverse, ensuring that whether one is shopping in Old Town, dining out, or exploring the city, there is always a nearby spot to enjoy high-quality, small-batch beers. Moreover, the community's commitment to celebrating local craftsmanship is evident in the consistent availability of unique, experimental batches alongside proven favorites.
Pasadena has truly etched its name onto the map as a destination for craft beer lovers. With its walking-friendly districts and a convivial atmosphere, the city stands as a testimony to the thriving craft beer revolution in California.
