Founded by Germans immigrants in 1857, it makes sense that the city of Anaheim has nurtured one of the standout craft-beer scenes in the state. Beer is in this Orange County burg’s DNA—and with more than 20 breweries, the city’s roster of must-visit brewpubs runs deep.
The current scene beer scene has grown since the late 1990s. Longtime favorite Backstreet Brewery opened in 1998, later joined by hazy IPA specialists Monkish Brewing and the flavorful Noble Ale Works, which has established itself as one of the city’s go-to brau spots with its 20-tap tasting room around the corner from Angel Stadium and the Honda Center. On the edgier side of things, the self-described mad scientists at Bottle Logic Brewing have a three-strong line of on-premise foam pours of crisp, clean lagers drawn from state-of-the-art LUKR faucets, as well as cocktail-inspired "Lightning in a Bottle" offerings served in rocks glasses. Villains Brewing Company, meanwhile, has earned a devoted clientele thanks to its brews as well as a varied menu at its food hall, and Phantom Ales Anaheim offers a rapidly rotating “on tap” menu. Check websites for each location to find out about tap lineups and events throughout the year, then download the brewery map to map our your own tasting tour.
Another fun way to sample Anaheim's crafty suds: join a guided tour to get the big picture of craft brewing in Anaheim and beyond. At Orange County Craft Brew Tours, board a limo-style bus to visit three breweries, with plenty of samples and extra goodies. (Souvenir bottle opener, anyone? Heck yeah!) In July, the annual OC Fair's Brew Heehaw festival showcases nearly 100 craft beers, plus other beers from around the world. Prost!
To learn about the craft beer scenes in other California cities and regions, check out Craft Breweries in San Francisco, Los Angeles County’s Craft Breweries, San Diego County Craft Breweries, and The Deserts' Craft Breweries.