Best Breweries in Tampa to Visit
Best breweries in Tampa offer creative high quality beers, regular tastings, and an inviting atmosphere. Tampa is considered one of the top craft beer destinations in the country. The city boasts a diverse range of breweries, from small, independent operations to larger, well-established ones.
Over the years, Tampa’s beer industry has grown exponentially, with new breweries popping up all over the city. The city has a rich history of brewing, dating back to the late 1800s when German immigrants settled in the area and brought their beer brewing traditions with them.
Over the years, Tampa’s beer industry has grown exponentially, with new breweries popping up all over the city. The city has a rich history of brewing, dating back to the late 1800s when German immigrants settled in the area and brought their beer brewing traditions with them.
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Key Takewaways
- Tampa has a thriving craft beer scene with unique flavors and must-try beers from top breweries.
- Touring the best brewery taprooms and meeting the brewers to learn about the craft beer making process is a must-do.
- Many of Tampa’s best breweries have a taproom with regular tastings, a fun and comfortable atmosphere and a food menu making visiting an even more enjoyable place to visit.
What Makes a Brewery the Best?
Craving a cold one and a fun outing? With so many breweries to choose from, how do you know which ones will quench your thirst and leave you wanting more? While taste is subjective, there are some key factors that contribute to a brewery’s overall excellence:
- Quality Beer: This one’s a no-brainer! Great breweries use high-quality ingredients, meticulous brewing practices, and innovative techniques to create consistently delicious beers that cater to a range of palates.
- Variety & Experimentation: The best breweries offer a diverse selection of beers, from core styles to seasonal offerings and limited releases. They aren’t afraid to experiment with new ingredients and brewing methods, keeping their customers engaged and excited.
- Vibrant Atmosphere & Regular Tastings: A brewery is more than just a place to grab a beer. The best ones create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere where people can relax, socialize, and enjoy the experience. Think comfortable seating, friendly staff, and a space that reflects the brewery’s unique personality.
On top of that, look for breweries that offer regular tastings, allowing you to sample a variety of their beers and discover new your new favorite! - Delicious Food Options: While a great beer is essential, some breweries take it a step further by offering delicious food options. This could be anything from a full restaurant menu to a selection of snacks and pizzas. Pairing your beer with food can enhance the overall experience.
- Community: Most popular breweries are typically ingrained in the local community. They support local businesses, host events, and give back to worthy causes.
- Sustainability: Many breweries are prioritizing eco-friendly practices. This can include using water conservation techniques, sourcing local ingredients, the types of cans and containers they use and implementing recycling programs.
9 Tampa Bay Breweries to Visit
One of the best ways to experience Tampa’s craft beer scene is by visiting the taprooms of local breweries. Taprooms offer a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to sample a wide variety of beers and learn more about the brewing process.
Angry Chair Brewing (4101 N Florida Ave, Tampa): Known for their creative and experimental beers, Angry Chair offers a welcoming taproom with regular tastings and an extensive (and super creative) beer menu, plus limited food offerings as well. Check their website or social media for current hours and tasting information: Angry Chair Brewing
Magnanimous Brewing (6809 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa): This Seminole Heights brewery boasts a spacious taproom with a laid-back atmosphere. They have regular tastings and events – check their social media for details or website: Magnanimous Brewing here.
Cigar City Brewing (3924 W Spruce St, Tampa): This historic Tampa brewery offers tours, a tasting room featuring high quality and unique beers, a food menu and more. They have regular tasting hours and three locations– check their website for details: Cigar City Brewing
BarrieHaus Beer Co (1403 E 5th Ave, Tampa): This popular spot located in Historic Ybor City offers a wide selection of house-made beers and a welcoming atmosphere. They have regular tasting events – check their social media or website for details: BarrieHaus Beer Co
Tampa Bay Brewing Company (1600 E 8th Ave, Tampa): A Tampa Bay staple (aka TBBC), this brewery features a spacious taproom with seasonal beers, full-service kitchen, outdoor patio and bar, and live music on the weekends . Check their social media or website for details and address for their 2nd location: Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Coppertail Brewing Co. (2601 E 2nd Ave, Tampa): This vibrant brewery located in Historic Ybor City features an indoor taproom, large outdoor patio, a kitchen with a good food menu. Check their social media or website for details: Coppertail Brewing Co
Hidden Springs Ale Works (1631 N Franklin St, Tampa): This brewery offers a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse selection of beers and regular tastings. Check their social media or website for details: Hidden Springs Ale Works
Woven Water Brewing Company (456 W Columbus Dr, Tampa): This brewery features a taproom with a welcoming atmosphere. Check their social media or website for details: Woven Water Brewing Company
Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen (11109 N 30th St, Tampa): This massive facility features America’s Oldest Brewery’s first-ever taproom and restaurant concept. Enjoy a sleek taproom with brewery views, a massive beer garden, and a delicious food menu featuring both Pennsylvania and Florida culinary influences.
They offer a wide selection of Yuengling beers, including core brands and seasonal offerings. Yuengling remains a family-owned and operated brewery since 1829! Visit their website for their two locations, events and tastings, and read about their history here: Yuengling
Pairing Local Brews with Food
One of the great things about craft beer is its versatility when it comes to pairing with food. Tampa is home to a vibrant food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants and bars that offer delicious dishes to pair with local brews.
When it comes to pairing beer with food, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Lighter beers, like pilsners and wheat beers, pair well with lighter dishes such as salads and seafood.
- Darker and more robust beers, like stouts and porters, pair well with heartier dishes like burgers and barbecue.
Support Local: Why Drinking Local Beer Matters
Supporting local breweries is not only good for the local economy, but it also helps foster a sense of community. When you drink local beer, you are supporting small businesses and helping them thrive.
Local breweries also have a smaller carbon footprint compared to larger, mass-produced breweries. They often source their ingredients locally and use sustainable brewing practices, which helps reduce their environmental impact.
What's Next for Tampa Brewers and the Craft Beer Scene?
The craft beer industry is constantly evolving, and Tampa’s craft beer scene is no exception. As the city continues to grow and attract more visitors, local brewers are looking for new ways to innovate and stand out from the crowd.
One trend that is likely to continue in Tampa’s craft beer scene is the use of unique ingredients and flavors. Brewers are constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create beers that are unlike anything else on the market.
In conclusion, Tampa’s craft beer scene is thriving and offers a wide variety of unique flavors and experiences for beer lovers. From the diverse range of breweries and their must-try beers to the taprooms and brewery merchandise, there is something for everyone in Tampa’s craft beer scene.
By supporting local breweries, you are not only enjoying delicious beer but also contributing to the growth and success of the community. So next time you find yourself in Tampa, be sure to raise a glass and toast to the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.
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FAQs
What is the history of breweries in Tampa, Florida?
Tampa has a rich history of brewing beer, dating back to the late 1800s.
What types of beer can be found at Tampa breweries?
Tampa breweries offer a wide variety of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, pilsners, and sour beers. Many breweries also offer seasonal and limited edition beers.
Are there any notable breweries in Tampa?
Yes, there are several notable breweries in Tampa, including Cigar City Brewing, Coppertail Brewing Co., and Angry Chair Brewing.
Do Tampa breweries offer food?
Many Tampa breweries offer food, some offering limited food menus and some offering full restaurant menus.
Can I take a tour of a Tampa brewery?
Yes, many Tampa breweries offer tours of their facilities. Some breweries also offer tastings and other special events.
Are Tampa breweries family-friendly?
Many Tampa breweries are family-friendly and welcome children. Some have outdoor patios that are also pet-friendly. It is best to check with the individual brewery before bringing children.