Oakland, California boasts a vibrant and diverse craft beer scene. From established giants to tiny, innovative newcomers, there's a brewery in Oakland to suit every taste. This guide explores 21 of the best, highlighting their unique offerings and atmospheres. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting your craft beer journey, this list will help you navigate the exciting world of Oakland breweries.
Exploring Oakland's Best Breweries: A Diverse Selection
Oakland's brewing community is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find everything from traditional styles to experimental concoctions, showcasing the creativity and passion of local brewers. This extensive list provides a starting point for your Oakland brewery exploration. Remember to check individual brewery websites for hours of operation, special events, and tour availability.
Established Oakland Favorites: Tried and True Brews
These breweries have stood the test of time, building reputations for quality and consistency. Their popularity is well-deserved.
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Drake's Brewing Company: A long-standing Oakland institution, Drake's offers a wide range of beers, from their classic pale ales to more experimental brews. Their spacious taproom is perfect for groups. Known for: 1500° Pale Ale, Denogginizer IPA.
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21st Amendment Brewery: With a lively atmosphere and a popular location, 21st Amendment is known for its creative and approachable beers. They frequently host events and have a great outdoor space. Known for: Hell or High Watermelon Wheat, Brew Free! or Die IPA.
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The New Parkway Theater & Brewery: This unique spot combines a movie theater with a brewery, offering a truly unique experience. Enjoy a craft beer while catching a classic film. Known for: Rotating selection of craft beers paired with movie screenings.
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Temescal Brewing Company: Located in the vibrant Temescal neighborhood, this brewery prides itself on using local ingredients. Their taproom features a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Known for: Rotating seasonal brews and locally-sourced ingredients.
The Rising Stars: New Oakland Breweries Making a Splash
These newer breweries have quickly gained popularity for their innovative beers and unique styles.
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East Bay Brewing Company: This brewery focuses on traditional brewing techniques with a modern twist. Their beers are consistently well-crafted and highly rated. Known for: Well-balanced ales and lagers.
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Cellarmaker Brewing Company: Cellarmaker is renowned for its experimental and often high-alcohol beers. Their focus is on pushing boundaries and exploring new flavor profiles. Known for: Barrel-aged stouts and sours.
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Fractured Brewing Company: Fractured Brewing is known for its hazy IPAs and innovative use of hops. They often collaborate with other breweries, creating exciting and unique collaborations. Known for: Hazy IPAs and collaborative brews.
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Alchemist Brewing Company: This smaller brewery focuses on high-quality, small-batch brews. Their focus on meticulous brewing results in flavorful and complex beers. Known for: Small-batch ales and lagers.
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Ghost Town Brewing: This brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, often with creative and unusual names. Their unique approach keeps things exciting for regular visitors. Known for: Creative beer names and rotating taps.
Unique Experiences: Breweries with a Twist
Some Oakland breweries offer more than just great beer; they provide unique experiences and environments.
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Clandestine Brewing Company: The name itself suggests a hidden gem. Clandestine Brewing Company offers a small, intimate taproom with a unique atmosphere. Known for: A cozy and intimate setting.
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Lake Merritt Beer Garden: This outdoor beer garden offers a relaxed and social atmosphere with a wide selection of beers on tap. Perfect for a sunny afternoon. Known for: Relaxed outdoor setting and diverse beer selection.
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Anchor Brewing Company (Technically San Francisco, but close!): While technically in San Francisco, Anchor Brewing's proximity and historical significance warrant a mention. It's a classic brewery with a rich history. Known for: Steam Beer and rich brewing heritage.
Beyond the Usual: Exploring Diverse Styles and Flavors
These breweries stand out for their specific styles or unique approaches to brewing.
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Woods Beer Co: Woods Beer Co. focuses on unique and approachable styles including sours and farmhouse beers. They often use interesting ingredients in their creations. Known for: Sour and farmhouse ales, use of unique ingredients.
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Sobah: This brewery focuses on gluten-free beers, proving that excellent beer can be enjoyed by everyone. Their creative recipes ensure delicious, inclusive options. Known for: High-quality gluten-free beers.
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Fieldwork Brewing Company: Fieldwork embraces the experimental side of brewing with limited releases and innovative styles. They are constantly pushing the boundaries. Known for: Experimental and limited-release beers.
Oakland's Hidden Gems: Discoveries Waiting to be Made
These breweries may be smaller or less well-known, but their dedication to quality and craft is undeniable.
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Pacific Coast Brewing Company: This brewery offers a classic lineup of beers that are consistently well-executed. They're a reliable choice for a solid brew. Known for: Classic beer styles, consistently high quality.
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Rare Barrel: Rare Barrel is a standout sour brewery, specializing in wild ales and barrel-aged beers. They’re a must-visit for sour beer enthusiasts. Known for: Barrel-aged sours and wild ales.
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Linden Street Brewery: Linden Street Brewery offers a combination of traditional and innovative beers in a friendly atmosphere. They are a perfect spot for a relaxed evening. Known for: Friendly atmosphere and blend of classic and creative beers.
Brewery Destinations Outside Oakland (but Worth the Trip!)
These are slightly outside of Oakland city limits, but easily accessible and definitely worth visiting.
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Rock Bottom Brewery (Alameda): Just across the bridge in Alameda, Rock Bottom offers a large space and a wide selection of beers. Known for: Large space and a wide range of beer styles.
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Golden Coast Brewing (Emeryville): Situated in nearby Emeryville, Golden Coast offers a selection of beers with a focus on approachable and easy-drinking styles. Known for: Easy-drinking and approachable beers.
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FiftyFifty Brewing Company (Berkeley): A short trip to Berkeley will take you to FiftyFifty, a brewery known for its quality and consistently good beers. Known for: Consistently high-quality beers across several styles.
Planning Your Oakland Brewery Tour
This list is a fantastic starting point, but the best way to experience Oakland's brewing scene is to explore! Consider these tips for planning your brewery adventures:
- Transportation: Designate a driver or use ride-sharing services to ensure safe travel between breweries.
- Pace Yourself: Sample a variety of beers, but don't overdo it. Enjoy the experience and savor the flavors.
- Check Hours: Brewery hours vary, so check websites beforehand.
- Make Reservations: Some breweries require reservations, especially for tours or large groups.
- Explore the Neighborhoods: Many breweries are situated in vibrant neighborhoods with other attractions, making for a well-rounded day trip.
Oakland's craft beer scene is constantly evolving, with new breweries opening regularly. This guide provides a great overview of some of the best, but don't hesitate to explore beyond this list and discover your own personal favorites! Cheers to exploring the top breweries in Oakland!
