Riverside, California, once known for its citrus industry, has blossomed into a vibrant cultural destination with a thriving craft beer scene. Beer enthusiasts can explore a diverse range of local breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences.
Riverside’s craft beer landscape features notable establishments like Thompson Brewing, Route 30 Brewing Company, and Packinghouse Brewing Company, which showcase the city’s brewing talent and creativity. These breweries, along with others in the area, contribute to a rich tapestry of craft beer options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
The city’s craft beer culture extends beyond breweries to include specialty bottle shops and taprooms. Venues like The Brickwood and Beerfarm provide extensive selections of local and regional craft beers, allowing visitors to sample a wide array of brews in one location. This growing beer community reflects Riverside’s evolving identity as a destination for quality craft beverages and innovative brewing techniques.
Exploring Riverside’s Craft Beer Scene
Riverside’s craft beer scene has flourished in recent years, offering a diverse range of locally brewed ales and IPAs. The city’s breweries showcase unique flavors and innovative brewing techniques that reflect the region’s character.
The Rise of Craft Breweries
Craft breweries have become an integral part of Riverside’s cultural landscape. The city has seen a surge in local beer production, with several new breweries opening their doors to enthusiastic beer lovers. This growth has been fueled by a growing appreciation for artisanal beverages and a desire for locally-made products.
Riverside’s craft beer industry has also created new jobs and contributed to the local economy. Many breweries have transformed unused industrial spaces into vibrant taprooms, revitalizing neighborhoods and attracting both residents and tourists.
Local Breweries and Their Signature Offerings
Riverside boasts a variety of craft breweries, each with its own unique style and signature beers. Packinghouse Brewing Company, one of the city’s pioneers, offers a range of ales that pay homage to Riverside’s citrus heritage. Route 30 Brewing Company has gained popularity for its experimental brews and rotating tap list.
Thompson Brewing focuses on traditional styles with a modern twist, while All Points Brewing Co. has made a name for itself with its innovative flavor combinations. These breweries often collaborate with local businesses, incorporating local ingredients into their recipes.
Many taprooms offer tasting flights, allowing visitors to sample a variety of craft beers in one sitting. Some breweries also host food trucks or have on-site kitchens, creating a complete dining and drinking experience.
IPA: A Local Favorite
India Pale Ale (IPA) has emerged as a clear favorite among Riverside’s craft beer enthusiasts. Local breweries have embraced this hop-forward style, creating a wide range of IPAs to suit different palates.
Riverside brewers experiment with various hop varieties, producing IPAs that range from bitter West Coast styles to hazy New England versions. Some local IPAs incorporate citrus notes, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage.
Many breweries offer seasonal IPA releases, taking advantage of fresh hop harvests or introducing fruit-infused variations during summer months. The popularity of IPAs has also led to the creation of IPA-focused events and festivals in Riverside, celebrating this beloved beer style.
Where to Enjoy Craft Beers in Riverside
Riverside boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with numerous venues catering to beer enthusiasts. From specialty bars to gastropubs, the city offers diverse options for savoring local and regional brews.
Bars with the Best Beer Selection
The Brickwood stands out as a top destination for craft beer lovers in Riverside. This bar features an extensive selection of local and regional brews on tap. M & M Liquor & Market, while primarily a retail shop, offers an impressive array of craft beers for those looking to enjoy at home.
Riverside Liquor also provides a wide variety of craft beer options. For a unique experience, Beerfarm at the Riverside Food Lab showcases a rotating selection of Southern California’s finest craft beers.
Restaurants Offering Craft Beers on Tap
Safe Haus Craft Beer & Kitchen combines great food with an excellent craft beer selection. Their menu features dishes that pair well with their curated beer list.
Route 30 Brewing Company offers a brewpub experience, serving their own craft beers alongside a menu of pub favorites. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for trying new brews.
Locals Public House is another spot where diners can enjoy craft beers with their meals. They focus on supporting local breweries and often feature limited-release beers.
Pubs and Gastropubs for Beer Enthusiasts
The Brickwood, in addition to its impressive beer selection, offers a gastropub menu that complements its brews. The atmosphere is perfect for those who appreciate good food with their craft beer.
Packinghouse Brewing Company provides a true brewery experience. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the brewing process, and taste fresh beers straight from the source.
Thompson Brewing combines a cozy pub atmosphere with house-brewed beers. Their rotating taps ensure there’s always something new to try for regular patrons.
Tasting and Pairing Experiences
Riverside’s craft beer scene offers unique tasting and pairing experiences that elevate the enjoyment of local brews. From gourmet food pairings to the art of matching beers with meals, beer enthusiasts can explore new flavor dimensions.
Gourmet Food and Beer Pairing Events
Riverside breweries host regular events showcasing the harmony between craft beers and gourmet cuisine. Local chefs collaborate with brewmasters to create menus that complement specific beer styles. These events often feature small plates or tasting portions, allowing guests to sample multiple pairings.
Some breweries partner with food trucks or local restaurants to offer rotating culinary options. This variety keeps the pairing experiences fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.
Many events include educational components, with experts explaining the flavor profiles and how they interact. Attendees learn about beer styles, brewing processes, and food pairing principles.
The Art of Pairing Beers with Meals
Riverside’s craft beer culture extends beyond breweries into local restaurants and homes. Restaurants increasingly offer beer pairing suggestions on their menus, highlighting local brews that enhance specific dishes.
Beer sommeliers and knowledgeable servers guide diners through pairing options, explaining how beer characteristics like bitterness, sweetness, or maltiness complement different foods.
Common pairings include:
- Hoppy IPAs with spicy dishes
- Wheat beers with light salads or seafood
- Stouts with rich desserts or grilled meats
Home enthusiasts can explore pairing principles through tasting kits offered by local breweries. These often include beer samples, food items, and pairing guides for at-home experimentation.
Specialty Beer Outlets
Riverside offers several options for craft beer enthusiasts to discover and purchase their favorite brews. Local liquor stores and specialty wine and beer shops provide extensive selections of regional and international craft beers.
Top Local Liquor Stores for Craft Beer
M & M Liquor & Market stands out as a top destination for craft beer in Riverside. They offer a wide variety of local and imported craft beers. House of Booze is another popular spot, known for its diverse beer selection and knowledgeable staff.
Canyon Crest Liquor caters to beer aficionados with an impressive array of craft options. Liquorama is praised for its extensive beer inventory and competitive prices. These stores often feature rotating taps for growler fills, allowing customers to take home fresh draft beer.
Wine and Beer Specialty Shops
La Bodega Wine & Spirits combines an impressive wine selection with a curated craft beer assortment. They frequently host tasting events, giving patrons the opportunity to sample new and unique brews.
The Brickwood, while primarily known as a bar, also functions as a bottle shop. Customers can purchase bottles and cans to enjoy at home. This establishment focuses on local and regional craft beers, supporting the Southern California brewing scene.
Beerfarm specializes in hard-to-find and limited-release craft beers. They maintain relationships with breweries to secure rare offerings for their customers. The shop also provides expert recommendations to help beer enthusiasts discover new favorites.
Promotions and Happy Hours
Riverside offers numerous opportunities to enjoy craft beer at discounted prices. Many local breweries and bars feature happy hour specials and promotional events focused on craft beer.
Craft Beer Happy Hour Hotspots
Craftz Lounge stands out as a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts during happy hour. They offer a rotating selection of local and regional brews at reduced prices. W Wolfskill, known for its craft cocktails, also includes craft beer options in its happy hour menu.
Yard House, with its extensive beer selection, runs a daily happy hour featuring discounted pints and appetizers. The Brickwood, a local favorite, offers happy hour specials on craft beers from Riverside breweries and beyond.
Heroes Restaurant and Brewery combines in-house brews with happy hour deals, making it an excellent choice for sampling local craft beer at lower prices.
Deals and Discounts on Craft Beers
Many Riverside establishments offer weekly specials on craft beers. All Points Brewing Co. runs “Thirsty Thursdays” with discounted pints of their signature brews. Route 30 Brewing Company features a “Flight Night” where customers can sample multiple craft beers at a reduced cost.
Beerfarm regularly hosts tap takeovers, showcasing different breweries with promotional pricing. Locals Public House offers a “Beer of the Month” at a special price, encouraging patrons to try new craft options.
Some bottle shops, like M & M Liquor & Market, run promotions on packaged craft beers, allowing customers to enjoy discounts on take-home options from local and regional breweries.
Unique Riverside Beer Destinations
Riverside boasts several standout spots for craft beer enthusiasts. These locations offer diverse experiences, from community-focused brewing to creative beer and wine pairings.
Thompson Brewing Co: A Community Staple
Thompson Brewing Co has established itself as a cornerstone of Riverside’s craft beer scene. This family-owned brewery prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Their tap list features a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs.
The brewery’s spacious tasting room provides ample seating for groups. On weekends, food trucks often park outside, offering tasty pairings for Thompson’s brews. Regular events like trivia nights and live music performances add to the vibrant community feel.
Thompson Brewing Co’s commitment to quality is evident in their brewing process. They use locally-sourced ingredients when possible, supporting regional farmers and businesses.
La Bodega – The Ultimate Wine and Beerfusion
La Bodega offers a unique twist on the typical beer bar experience. This establishment seamlessly blends the worlds of craft beer and fine wine. The carefully curated drink menu features an impressive selection of local and international beers alongside a diverse wine list.
Beer aficionados can explore limited-release brews from Riverside’s top breweries. Wine lovers will appreciate the carefully selected vintages from California and beyond. La Bodega’s knowledgeable staff excels at recommending pairings for their small plates menu.
The venue’s rustic-chic decor creates an inviting atmosphere for date nights or casual gatherings. Regular tasting events allow patrons to expand their palates and discover new favorites.
The Salted Pig: More than Just a Gastropub
The Salted Pig has earned a reputation as one of Riverside’s premier gastropubs. While known for its excellent food menu, the pub’s beer program is equally impressive. The tap list showcases a mix of local Riverside brews and sought-after beers from across California.
Seasonal rotations ensure there’s always something new to try. The Salted Pig’s beer-savvy staff can guide patrons to the perfect pour to complement their meal. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, the selection caters to all taste preferences.
The pub’s commitment to the craft beer community is evident in their frequent collaboration events with local breweries. These special nights often feature limited-edition beers and allow guests to meet the brewers behind their favorite pints.
Craft Beer Varieties and Styles
Riverside’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles and flavors for beer enthusiasts to explore. Local breweries showcase their creativity through unique interpretations of classic and modern beer varieties.
Discovering DIPAs, Sours, and More
Double India Pale Ales (DIPAs) are popular among Riverside’s craft brewers. These bold, hoppy beers pack a punch with higher alcohol content and intense flavors. Many local breweries experiment with different hop varieties to create distinctive DIPA profiles.
Sour beers have gained traction in Riverside’s craft beer community. Brewers use wild yeasts or bacteria to produce tart, acidic flavors. Some local establishments offer fruited sours, adding layers of complexity to these unique brews.
Other styles found in Riverside include:
- Stouts and porters
- Belgian-style ales
- Wheat beers
- Lagers and pilsners
Regional Craft Beers: Exploring Local Flavors
Riverside’s breweries often incorporate local ingredients to create beers that reflect the region’s character. Citrus-infused IPAs are common, utilizing fruits grown in nearby orchards. Some brewers experiment with herbs and spices native to Southern California.
Seasonal releases are popular among Riverside’s craft beer makers. Light, refreshing styles dominate summer menus, while heartier brews appear in colder months. Many breweries collaborate with local businesses to produce limited-edition beers that showcase the area’s culinary diversity.
Riverside’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, with new styles and flavor combinations emerging regularly. Beer enthusiasts can find a wide array of options to suit their tastes at local taprooms and bottle shops.
Community and Culture
Riverside’s craft beer scene fosters a strong sense of community and local culture. Breweries serve as gathering places that bring people together and host events celebrating the artisanal craft.
Beer Farms and Their Impact on Local Culture
Beer farms in Riverside blend agricultural traditions with craft brewing innovation. These unique venues grow their own ingredients, offering visitors farm-to-glass experiences. Local beer farms host tours and tastings, educating the public about brewing processes and ingredients.
Beerfarm, a popular destination, emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing. Their practices inspire other breweries to adopt eco-friendly approaches. This focus on local agriculture strengthens ties between brewers, farmers, and consumers.
Beer farms also serve as community hubs, hosting seasonal events that showcase local produce alongside their brews. These gatherings foster a deeper appreciation for Riverside’s agricultural heritage and craft beer culture.
Craft Beer Events: Bringing People Together
Riverside’s craft beer events create vibrant social experiences that unite beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The BrewGrass Craft Beer and Music Festival, held annually in June, exemplifies this community spirit. It combines local brews with live music and gourmet food.
Breweries frequently collaborate on special releases, fostering camaraderie within the industry. These limited-edition beers generate excitement and draw crowds to taprooms. Tasting events and beer pairing dinners educate attendees about flavor profiles and food compatibilities.
Many breweries partner with local charities, hosting fundraisers that combine philanthropy with craft beer appreciation. These events strengthen community bonds and support important causes while celebrating Riverside’s brewing culture.
Dining and Entertainment Venues
Riverside offers diverse dining and entertainment options that pair perfectly with its craft beer scene. From food halls to upscale restaurants, beer enthusiasts can find their favorite brews alongside delicious cuisine.
Riverside Food Lab: A Foodie’s Paradise
Riverside Food Lab is a culinary hotspot featuring 14 artisanal food vendors under one roof. This modern food hall concept showcases local flavors and craft beverages.
Visitors can sample dishes from various cuisines while enjoying a rotating selection of craft beers. The communal seating encourages a social atmosphere, making it ideal for groups.
Food Lab often hosts events like beer tastings and live music performances. These gatherings highlight the vibrant food and drink culture of Riverside.
Enjoying Craft Beers at a Local Pizzeria
Riverside’s pizzerias offer a casual setting to savor craft beers with classic Italian fare. Many local pizza joints feature extensive beer lists, including regional and national craft options.
Patrons can pair their favorite slice with a carefully curated beer selection. Some pizzerias even offer beer flights, allowing customers to sample multiple brews.
The relaxed ambiance of these establishments makes them perfect for unwinding after work or gathering with friends on weekends. Many also feature outdoor seating for al fresco dining and drinking.
Yard House: Where Beer and High Cuisine Meet
Yard House stands out as a premier destination for beer aficionados in Riverside. This upscale restaurant boasts an impressive selection of over 100 beers on tap.
The menu features American fusion cuisine designed to complement their extensive beer offerings. Dishes range from street tacos to gourmet burgers and steaks.
Yard House’s signature central island bar showcases their vast array of taps. Beer enthusiasts can explore new brews or stick to familiar favorites.
The restaurant’s sleek, modern decor and lively atmosphere make it suitable for both casual outings and special occasions. Happy hour specials offer a chance to try premium beers at discounted prices.
