Arlington, TX Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider's Tour to the Best Brews
Arlington, Texas, has become a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts, proudly offering a diverse selection of local brews that reflect the city's growing reputation as a hub for beer aficionados. With a dedication to quality and creativity, the first locally owned and operated brewery, Division Brewing, opened its doors, firmly establishing the city's craft beer scene. Their extensive experience in homebrewing is evident in the range of styles they offer, solidifying their position in the community as a producer of fine beers.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Arlington's craft breweries, beer lovers have much to explore. Establishments like Legal Draft Beer Company have made their mark with a commitment to local production, insisting on a right to enjoy great beer in the company of friends and family. The city's breweries take pride in their craft, continually innovating while serving up a variety of unique and flavorful brews.
Arlington's craft beer offerings provide a vibrant array of choices for residents and visitors alike. Whether it's seeking out a bar with a modern vibe and an impressive selection of 50 craft beers on tap or engaging in the charm of a smaller, neighborhood brewery, there's a place for every taste. The local craft beer scene in Arlington invites exploration and enjoyment in a welcoming environment that celebrates the artisanal spirit.
The History of Craft Beer in Arlington, TX
Arlington's craft beer scene has grown from simple beginnings into a key component of the city's cultural fabric, marked by significant developments and the establishment of breweries that play a vital role in the local community.
The Origins of Arlington Brewing
In the early days, Arlington, Texas, was not widely recognized for its brewing industry. The city was better known for its sports venues and attractions like Six Flags. However, a transformation began as local entrepreneurs recognized a growing demand for quality, artisanal beers and sought to fill this niche. The craft beer movement in Arlington started quite modestly with passionate beer enthusiasts and home brewers looking to create high-quality, flavorful brews that represented the city's unique character and history.
Key Milestones in Local Craft Brewing
Legal Draft Beer Co. Established: 2016
Impact: A significant milestone for Arlington's craft beer industry was the founding of the Legal Draft Beer Co., which became one of the first legal breweries to set up shop in the city.Craft Beer Establishments Rise Timeline: Post-2016
Effect: The establishment of Legal Draft Beer Co. and others attracted new interest in the city for both locals and visitors alike. These craft breweries have placed Arlington on the map as a destination for beer aficionados, contributing to a socioeconomic boost separate from the city's sports and entertainment attractions.
Arlington's breweries continue to evolve, offering a range of beers that appeal to a diverse audience, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Each brewery contributes to the city's local craft beer narrative with unique styles and flavors, enriching Arlington's identity beyond its traditional imagery.
Guide to Arlington's Breweries
Arlington, Texas showcases a thriving craft beer scene with a selection of breweries and pubs that offer unique, locally-produced beers. This guide explores some of the standout breweries and beer-centric pubs in the area, detailing the distinctive character and offerings of each venue.
Division Brewing
Division Brewing holds the distinction of being Arlington’s first locally-owned brewery. This brewery takes pride in its wide range of flavors, appealing to patrons who enjoy everything from tart, zesty ales to robust stouts.
Location: 506 E Main St, Arlington, TX 76010
Phone: (682) 276-1276
Highlight: They offer a selection of beers that are locally sourced and have a unique, homebrew-inspired touch.
Legal Draft Beer Co.
Legal Draft Beer Co. makes its mark with legal-themed beers, including their well-known Legal Blonde Lager. They provide a range of core beers that serve as the foundation for their brand.
Location: Arlington, TX
Highlight: The lineup includes the Chief Justice Stout and Presumed Innocent IPA, among other creatively named brews.
Turning Point Beer
The brewers at Turning Point Beer specialize in crafting a diverse selection of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers. They focus on producing innovative flavors, catering to both traditional and adventurous taste buds.
Location: Arlington, TX
Highlight: Turning Point Beer is known for their innovative approach to brewing and their dedication to crafting a memorable beer experience.
Hooligan's Pub
This local staple, Hooligan's Pub, offers a rich selection of craft beers. Patrons can enjoy a cozy atmosphere while exploring the variety of beers on tap, including those from surrounding local breweries.
Location: Arlington, TX
Highlight: Hooligan's Pub is revered for its extensive beer selection and commitment to showcasing a rotating variety of craft brews.
Kool Keg
At Kool Keg, beer enthusiasts will find a carefully curated selection, highlighting both local and international craft beers. Known for their friendly staff, Kool Keg helps patrons navigate through their assortment to find the perfect pint.
Location: Arlington, TX
Highlight: Kool Keg is recognized for its knowledgeable staff and an impressive array of beers, ensuring that there is something for every palate.
Sampling the Best Craft Beers
When visiting Arlington, Texas, craft beer enthusiasts can look forward to a rich selection of local brews. With a range of seasonal specialties and distinct year-round flavors, the local breweries offer a taste that caters to various palates.
What to Expect on Tap
In Arlington's craft beer bars, one can expect to find a rotating selection of beers on tap. On Tap, conveniently located near the University of Texas at Arlington, boasts an extensive menu that features the best of local craft beers. Patrons can enjoy light, refreshing ales, robust ambers, and hop-heavy IPAs. Each taproom promises a unique experience, often with knowledgeable staff who are eager to share their passion for craft beer and assist in finding the perfect pint.
Seasonal and Year-Round Offerings
Local breweries in Arlington have made a name for themselves not just with their regular offerings but also with their seasonal brews. Division Brewing, recognized as Arlington's first locally-owned brewery, showcases an array of beers that are available year-round. They also tempt visitors with seasonal offerings that capture the essence of each season, enhancing the craft beer experience with limited-edition batches that correspond to the time of year.
Unique Flavors to Look For
Craft beer aficionados will discover a plethora of unique flavors in Arlington's breweries. Beyond the traditional profiles, there are beers with fruity or sour notes, and some that may even incorporate local Texan ingredients. Creativity flourishes here, with breweries like Jeckylls Beer Lab known for their experimental approach to brewing. This pursuit of distinctive flavor combinations ensures there's always something new and exciting to try for those looking to expand their beer-tasting horizons.
Craft Beer Tasting Experiences
Arlington's craft beer scene affords aficionados a spectrum of tasting experiences, from guided samplings highlighting a range of styles to educational brewery tours. Visitors can savor the local brews in various serving options, including flights, pints, growlers, or crowlers.
Guided Beer Tastings
Guided beer tastings offer an in-depth look at the craft behind the brews. Expert hosts walk participants through a curated selection, often including a flight of beers, which typically consists of four 5-ounce samples. These sessions cater to both novices seeking to broaden their palates and connoisseurs aiming to deepen their knowledge of beer profiles and breweries' unique offerings.
Establishments to consider for guided tastings:
Legal Draft Beer Company: Recognized for its engaging atmosphere and flavorful, full-bodied beers.
On Tap: Boasts over 50 beers on rotation, providing fresh experiences with every visit.
Brewery Tours
Brewery tours give beer enthusiasts a glimpse into the creation process, from grain to glass. Participants learn about the brewing stages, the significance of different ingredients, and the brewers' personal stories, connecting them to the local culture. Post-tour, guests typically enjoy a pint of their favorite brew or have the option to fill a growler or crowler to take home.
Destinations for brewery tours:
Jeckylls Beer Lab: A locale revered for its innovative brews and the experience it offers to its visitors.
The Brew Shop: While primarily a store, it provides insights into local and small batch brews, with a wide selection of beers available.
These venues embody the vibrancy of Arlington's craft beer scene, presenting enthusiasts with a comprehensive tasting experience reflective of the city's brewing craftsmanship.
The Craft Beer Community
Arlington's craft beer community thrives on the diversity and passion of its homebrewers and craft beer enthusiasts. The presence of local brewing clubs and a robust calendar of beer-related events are hallmarks of the city's vibrant beer scene.
Homebrewing Clubs
Within Arlington, one might find a dynamic group of homebrewing aficionados eager to share their craft and knowledge. Members range from novices to those with years of brewing experience. These clubs often act as a nexus for community and creativity, providing a supportive environment for the exchange of brewing techniques and new flavors, and ultimately fueling the innovative spirit that characterizes the local craft breweries.
Arlington Homebrewers Association: A prominent group for those looking to refine their brewing skills or simply connect over a shared love for craft beer.
Monthly Meetups: These gatherings serve as educational sessions and tasting events, reinforcing the communal bond.
Craft Beer Events
Throughout the year, Arlington plays host to an array of craft beer events that welcome enthusiasts from all corners. These events often feature local breweries and homebrewers, and provide an excellent opportunity to taste different beer styles.
Arlington Craft Beer Week: An annual celebration featuring tastings, brewery tours, and special releases.
Beer Festivals: Notable festivals, such as the Division Brewing Festival, offer live music, food, and a wide selection of brews in an outdoor setting, attracting a broader audience and shining a spotlight on local talent.
The shared interests of home brewing and appreciating finely crafted beer strengthen Arlington's community, while events provide a lively platform for engagement and entertainment.
Pairing Food with Local Craft Beers
The landscape of Arlington's craft beer scene offers both seasoned aficionados and casual drinkers a rich tapestry of flavors suited for a diverse array of culinary pairings. Especially important for visitors is to note the synergy between local brews and regional cuisine at brewpubs and restaurants, as well as the burgeoning BYOB restaurant scene which accommodates those wishing to match their meal with their favorite local beer.
Brewpubs and Restaurants
When visiting Arlington brewpubs, guests can expect a carefully curated menu designed to complement the house brews. For example, robust porter styles often pair well with hearty, smoked meats – a staple in Texas cuisine. On the other hand, a hazy IPA with its fruity notes might contrast nicely with spicy dishes, enhancing the flavor profile of both the beer and the food.
Food Suggestion: Smoked brisket with a dark and roasty stout.
Food Suggestion: Spicy street tacos with a hoppy and bitter IPA.
Family-friendly options are also a highlight in the area, with some restaurants offering a relaxed atmosphere where a rich golden ale might accompany classic comfort foods like burgers or pizza, inviting a shared experience that caters to all ages.
BYOB Restaurants
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beer) restaurants in Arlington represent a unique opportunity for diners to tailor their eating experience. Guests can bring a growler of their preferred local craft beer to pair with the restaurant's offerings. This flexibility is perfect for those with discerning tastes or dietary restrictions.
Expert Tip: Check the restaurant's flavor profiles and choose a beer that pairs well. For example, bring a malty and sweet amber ale to complement a rich, cheese-based dish.
Expert Tip: Collaborate with the restaurant ahead of time to find the perfect food pairings for your BYOB choice.
One should remember that these establishments often cater to family gatherings, so selecting a beer that harmonizes with a variety of dishes will ensure that everyone at the table enjoys the pairing.
Beyond Beer: Cider, Mead, and More
Arlington's craft beverage scene extends beyond beer, featuring unique offerings like cider, mead, and a variety of non-alcoholic craft options catering to diverse palates.
Exploring Cider Breweries
In Arlington, cider enthusiasts can find a refreshing change of pace from traditional beers. Establishments offer a rotation of craft ciders, showcasing a range from classic apple to innovative flavor infusions. On Tap prominently features cider on its menu alongside craft beers, providing visitors with a diverse selection to satisfy their cider cravings.
Local Mead Offerings
Mead, an ancient drink made from fermented honey, is gaining modern appeal in Arlington's craft scene. Local spots serve up this honeyed beverage with a nod to tradition while embracing contemporary brewing techniques. Breaking Brew Meadery is a notable destination for those curious about the revival of this storied drink, blending brewing expertise with mead for a truly unique experience.
Non-Alcoholic Craft Options
As non-alcoholic craft beverages rise in popularity, Arlington's venues are responding with an array of options. Patrons can indulge in cold brew coffee, kombucha, and root beer, all crafted with the same attention to detail as their alcoholic counterparts. While beer may be a primary focus, these non-alcoholic offerings ensure that there's something special on tap for everyone, regardless of their drinking preferences.
Growlers, Crowlers, and Beer-to-Go
Arlington, Texas, offers a variety of local establishments where craft beer enthusiasts can purchase freshly tapped beer in growlers and crowlers. These containers allow them to enjoy their favorite drafts at home with maximum freshness.
Local Growler Bars
On Tap and Kool Keg Arlington are standout venues for growler fills in the area. They provide access to a wide array of craft beers ready to be taken home in growlers. A growler is a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel jug used to transport draft beer in the United States. These establishments cater to both seasoned craft beer aficionados and those new to the craft beer scene, offering anywhere from 50 taps to a meticulously selected array of craft beers.
On Tap DFW: Known for its expert CO2 filled growlers, offers draft beers to-go with a focus on maintaining the beer's freshness.
Kool Keg Arlington: A respected growler filling station and bar, boasts a comfortable atmosphere ideal for all levels of beer enthusiasts.
Takeaway Options
Packaged beers are readily available for takeaway in both growler and crowler formats, with the latter being a can-growler hybrid that offers a single-use, recyclable option. These containers are not only eco-friendly but also ensure that the beer preserves its taste and carbonation as if it's straight from the tap.
Growler Fill Options: Craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages like root beer, cider, kombucha, and cold brew coffee.
Crowler Availability: A selection of craft beers and other beverages available in crowler format for those preferring a one-time, recyclable option.
Enhancing the Craft Beer Experience
Arlington, Texas, has leveraged both technology and unique interactive features within its bars to elevate the craft beer scene, marrying innovation with tradition for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Beer Apps and Technology
The use of beer apps has become a significant asset for craft beer aficionados in Arlington. They enable users to access a broad database of brews, find local favorites, and discover new releases:
Untappd: This app allows users to track the beers they drink, share with friends, and find nearby craft beer venues.
Brewery Passport: Craft beer drinkers can collect stamps from local Arlington breweries and learn about upcoming events.
These platforms often integrate with bar systems to provide real-time updates on tap lists, making sure patrons have the latest information at their fingertips.
Interactive Bar Features
Local craft breweries in Arlington have adopted interactive bar features that engage customers more deeply in the beer-drinking experience. Such features include:
Digital Pour Boards: Craft beer joints are integrating digital pour boards that display the current beer offerings along with detailed information like flavor profiles and ABV (alcohol by volume) levels.
Self-serve Beer Walls: Some venues employ self-serve technology, allowing customers to pour their own pints and sample a variety of beers at their own pace.
These innovations not only help educate consumers but also create an engaging atmosphere that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Arlington's craft beer culture.
Craft Beer and Local Laws
In Arlington, TX, the craft beer scene has flourished within the framework of state and local liquor regulations. Understanding these laws is crucial for both consumers and producers as they define the operating landscape for breweries and bars.
Understanding Arlington's Alcohol Regulations
Arlington's alcohol laws dictate specific parameters for the sale and distribution of craft beer. Texas law, until a pivotal change in September 2019, prevented breweries from selling beer-to-go. This shift had a significant impact on local businesses, allowing patrons to purchase beer directly from breweries. However, Arlington breweries must contend with common state-wide regulations, such as obtaining a Brewpub License to sell food, beer, and wine, or a Manufacturer's License for beer production without on-site consumption.
Licenses Required:
Brewpub License: Sales of food & alcohol on premises; limited off-premises sales.
Manufacturer's License: Beer production; off-premises sales not permitted.
Alcohol catering businesses in Arlington must also adhere to these regulatory landscapes, ensuring they are properly licensed to serve at events.
Impact on Breweries and Bars
The change in beer-to-go laws positively impacted local breweries such as the Legal Draft Beer Company. They, like other Arlington craft beer producers, can now engage in direct sales, fostering a closer relationship with their customers and expanding their market reach. Bars, too, benefit from these evolving laws, with the opportunity to offer a wider variety of local brews.
Key Benefits for Breweries:
Expanded sales channels
Increased customer engagement
As the laws evolve, Arlington’s craft beer industry continues to adapt, seeking innovative ways to grow within the legal framework, maintain high-quality standards, and meet the demands of the thriving local beer community.
The Future of Craft Beer in Arlington
Arlington's craft beer scene is on a growth trajectory, with new breweries and beer-centric establishments contributing to a more complex and vibrant local industry.
Emerging Breweries
New breweries are continuously opening their doors, drawing in both locals and visitors alike. They are embracing the small-batch mentality, which allows them to experiment with diverse styles and flavors. Attention must be paid to the oncoming wave of breweries that are set to expand Arlington's portfolio of locally-made ales.
Upcoming Local Breweries:
Brewery A: Known for its inventive IPAs
Brewery B: Specializes in seasonal stouts
Brewery C: Offers a diverse sour beer lineup
Trends to Watch
The craft beer community in Arlington is witnessing several trends that signal a maturing market rich with innovation.
Specialized Pairings:
Establishments are increasingly offering beer-infused dishes and thoughtful pairings with local cuisine.
Innovative Brews:
Local breweries are investing in research and development to produce unique beer variants, reflecting both traditional and modern brewing techniques.
Consumer Education:
Efforts are being made to educate the consumer on the nuances of craft beer, fostering a community of knowledgeable enthusiasts.
By combining the allure of handcrafted brews with an eye on sustained innovation, Arlington's future in the craft beer industry looks promising. The focus remains on quality, originality, and creating a good beer that stands out in an ever-competitive market.
