Craft beer has evolved from a niche hobby into a cultural cornerstone of Austin, Texas. The city’s brewing scene is a vibrant reflection of its eclectic personality, blending traditional European techniques with bold, Texan innovation. From industrial-chic taprooms in East Austin to sprawling beer gardens under the Hill Country sun, the capital city offers a liquid landscape as diverse as its population.
For locals and visitors alike, the search for the perfect pint is a serious endeavor. Austin’s breweries are not just places to drink; they are community gathering spaces, live music venues, and culinary destinations. Whether you are a hop-head chasing the bitter bite of a West Coast IPA or a novice looking for a crisp, approachable lager, the city has a fermentation tank bubbling with your name on it.
The Austin beer identity is often characterized by a sense of place. Many local brewers utilize native ingredients, from Texas wildflowers to Hill Country well water, to create terroir-driven flavors that cannot be replicated elsewhere. This commitment to locality extends beyond the grain bill, fostering a collaborative spirit where breweries often partner on limited releases and support one another’s growth.
Navigating this expansive scene can be overwhelming, especially with the constant influx of new taprooms and experimental sours. That is why we have curated a definitive guide to the establishments that define the city’s brewing excellence. We have considered not only the quality of the liquid in the glass but also the atmosphere, the history, and the overall experience of the visit.
This guide is designed to help you skip the guesswork and head straight for the most memorable pints in the city. We focus on venues that consistently deliver high-quality product, exceptional service, and a genuine taste of Austin culture. You will find a mix of industry pioneers who paved the way and modern innovators pushing the boundaries of what beer can be.
Below, you will find our comprehensive roundup of the 12 best breweries in Austin. Each entry offers a unique reason to visit, ensuring that whether you are planning a weekend brewery crawl or just looking for a new after-work haunt, you are equipped with the knowledge of a seasoned local beer enthusiast.
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co.

| Address | 1305 W Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78704 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 298-2242 |
Michael Stine★★★★★
Our friends just purchased a condo which is walking distance from ABGB. This is their new hangout, and my wife and I now understand why. Great place with a friendly, fun and laid-back vibe. Food was tasty. We tried two different types of pizza, 2 different green salad options and some deviled eggs. All fresh and delicious. Beer and cocktails (we tried the Old Fashioned) were fantastic. Live music was a blast. Great sounds, dancing and fun for everyone, to include our friend's 3 year old son. Nice to know that this is a dog-friendly establishment as we will bring our pooch next time. Too much fun. We had two trains cruise by which really added to a fun atmosphere along with kids running around and playing. Very family-friendly environment. Highly recommend to anyone that hasn't stopped by this Austin Landmark brewhouse.
Andrew Renteria★★★★★
Came here for an event which sadly couldn’t participate in but grabbed some food while I was here and it was delicious. Everything was fresh and well prepared the fig sandwich was amazing and the stuffed pepperdew was delicious. Would definitely recommend.
Keith Gay★★★★★
Great must stop when in Austin. Pizza best ever and they even have a friendly dog. Amazing don't miss out.
Kevin Jordan★★★★★
Awesome beer garden with live music. Fantastic atmosphere and beer. The food looked great but only had beer. There is live music and dancing, great place for kids as well.
Mike Watson★★★★★
Great band at 4pm on Sunday. Get here about hour earlier if you want a place at the bar.
Food was good. Sharables and pizza focus. Citrus Caprese board was outstanding.
Pinthouse Brewing

| Address | 2201 E Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78741 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 717-0873 |
Graham Stone★★★★★
A great place to visit if you want to try new beers. They have a wide selection of beers all of which are made on site or at other Pinthouse facilities. I like IPAs so I tried the Electric Jellyfish and the Scorpion Disco. Both were delicious, the Electric Jellyfish is a hazy IPA 6.5% ABV with a slight bitterness that makes it bright and refreshing. The Scorpion Disco is apparently a west coast IPA but is less bitter than other west coast IPAs I've tried.
We ate agiant (Texas sized) pretzel then my wife had a chopped salad with salmon and I had a bowl of Hop Salt chips and onion dip. The chips were delicious, as was the salad.
The patio dining room was bright and airy and kept at a reasonable temperature by large fans, there is also an indoor dining room and bar iwth air conditioning.
Service was good. After we ordered at the bar and started a tab, they gave us a disc that we assumed would light up when our order was ready. The disc didn't light up but must have acted like a homing beacon as our food was delivered directly to us. Neat idea as the dining areas are quite large.
We had to return to the bar to pay our bill, and it was refreshing to see that the suggested tip (presumably for delivering our food) was 2% to 7%.
Finally the rest rooms were clean and well stocked
Kash Koncepts★★★★★
I'm not a beer drinker, but I took down a lot of root beer 😋
It was a chill atmosphere, good food, and good service.
I was surprised at how good the hummus platter was. I'll definitely be back!
Tim Gibson★☆☆☆☆
Pizza was 99% bread, sprinkle of cheese and a sprinkle of sauce. Pepperoni was burnt. I am guessing this place has to have fantastic beer or there would be no reason to visit. My kids just had the best pizza they have had in their life ... in Japan of all places. Maybe the other food choices would have been better but if you can't make a delicious pizza, what are the odds of getting anything else worth the money. I won't be back or recommending this place.
H P★★★★★
Large venue, unique separation between the bar/food ordering section and the louder socializing section that brought a nice reprieve in noise level, especially when trying to order. Vibes were great, beautiful environment with a mix of real and faux plants. I had the Mushroom Man sourdough pizza. Quite delicious, but the whipped goat cheese was a bit heavy handed and thus over-powered the other, rather complex mixture of flavors (which included both a red and green sauce, pickled shallots and other already strong flavours). I would say the prices are a bit on the expensive side, even though they did make this specific pie with sourdough and a lot of ingredients. Really my biggest critique of the place is how noisy it was with how acoustic the very large open space was and all the people talking at the same time. Many of the people I socialized with all had similar comments crop into conversation eventually. I went there on a packed Tuesday
R Khan★★★★★
Awesome! This place is outstanding! I highly recommend you eat and drink here. The food, beer, and service were all excellent here. I had a flight of beers. 3 IPAs, a nitro stout, and a dark Czech lager. All were very good. I had the Sourdough Mushroom Man pizza! Wow!!!!
Update: My second visit I had the Smash Burger and Basil Slaw. Again, the food was amazing!!!
Meanwhile Brewing

| Address | 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 308-3659 |
Ahmed★★★★★
**Meanwhilee Brewery** is a haven for craft beer lovers. As soon as you enter, the laid-back atmosphere invites you to relax and explore. The tasting room features a rotating selection of their house-brewed beers, each with its own unique flavor profile. I sampled a refreshing IPA that was perfectly balanced, with notes of citrus and pine. The staff is passionate and knowledgeable, eager to guide you through the selection process. I also enjoyed a flight of seasonal brews, which included a rich stout and a fruity wheat beer. The brewery often hosts events, including trivia nights and food trucks, making it a lively community hub. Hops & Barley Brewery is a fantastic spot to unwind with friends while discovering new flavors.
Mike Cole★★★★☆
Cool place, tried 2 different IPA’s and 2 ciders. Nice atmosphere inside and outside. Was a little crazy with all the kids there, that’s the only complaint. Got some tacos from one of the food trucks they have outside. Food was good and reasonably priced.
Sasha Girl★★★★★
Great experience at this brewery! The beer was really good — especially the IPA and the Pilsner. Ryan, who helped us, was very attentive and friendly. He even brought me about three different beers to try so I could decide which one I liked best, which I really appreciated.
Everyone there was very welcoming, and the pizza was also very good. The atmosphere is great because you can sit inside or outside.
I definitely recommend this place and will be coming back! 🍺🍕
Michael Anderz★★★★★
Very cool brewery with a lot of great drink and food options.
Non alcoholic options as well. And live music. Me and the boys stayed for a while and soaked in the vibes. Honest great time and kids were everywhere too so glad it’s family friendly. Definitely come check it out! This place is worth it!
Patrick Kennedy★★★★★
Staple of the Austin brewing scene. Great beer selection of varying styles from standard to wild options. They have seasonal beers they rotate often, a rotating lager, a rotating sour, and many other options. They have a decent indoor drinking space, with a full coffee shop, and a decent number of non alcoholic options for kids and pregnant ladies. Staff are so great and helpful, they have a fair amount of beer for takeaway in fridges and merchandise for sale. Outside they have a stage, vast amounts of pick nick tables, food trucks, and their own ice cream shop toward the back of the property behind the play area. The play area is basic but well done. The whole outdoor space is completely shaded by trees. In addition they have a soccer field and open spaces for kids to play. Parking is limited in the lot but street parking is easy enough. Highly recommend coming here for watching soccer or football games. They have live music just check schedule for who is playing. Highly recommend the is place for meetups and play dates alike.
Jester King Brewery

| Address | 13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 900-1820 |
Rick Lanza★★★★★
Beer was delicious and that’s the important part! We went on a very busy day, Doomfordge. Probably would have been a better experience on a regular day. Long lines for beer. They offered a very good deal, pay about $30 and get a glass and 8? 8 oz pours! Very good deal but it would require standing in line for hours to get 8 beers.
Seeing and petting the goats was fun but paying a fee to get in the goat pen seems wrong.
Very good beer is why you drive out to this brewery.
June K★★★★★
Loved this place. We visited Saturday am for the goat yoga (which is a good for the soul type of experience) and then stayed for some bevvies and pizza. The lemon pizza was amazing; it never occurred to me to put lemon on a pizza but this just worked. Prettiest pizza I’ve ever seen. Great ambiance with a country band playing and loads of space.
Odette Bernal★★★★★
This place is such a gem. The beer is amazing, and the hibiscus tea was absolutely delicious as well. The property is beautiful, with plenty of open space to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The play area is fantastic for kids, making it a great spot for families. Despite being popular, it feels calm, peaceful, and never crowded. Whether you're coming for the drinks, the atmosphere, or a relaxing afternoon outdoors, this place is definitely worth a visit. We'll be back!
Hip Hop★★★★★
Had been hearing about Jester King for a while - and have had a gew of their beers - but never visited so it was kind of like a bucket list place to visit. So, happened to be in New Braunfels to do some tubing with friends and, on the way home, decided to stop at Jester King.
Brewery is set on a farm and, much to my delight, they happen to have goats on site (72 to be exact) which you can either pet from outside the gate or, for $10 a person you can go inside the area and play with them (which I had to do - thanks to my wife for that). I just love goats.
Nice selection of beers on site. Place is absolute stunning - its literally like being ok a farm that happens to have beer available. Food is available, though we didnt try any.
If you're in the are and enjoy good beer, this is a must visit.
Rich Rivera★★★★★
My first time here, had a wonderful experience, the beer was very good, and the pizza (well I'm from New York City) was so awesome, really no BS! The vibe, the music, can't wait to come back!
Fast Friends Beer Company

| Address | 7313 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd NB, Austin, TX 78744 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Isabel Escobar★★★★★
BEST PIZZA i’ve ever had in Austin, it was so good!!! Also all the staff is extremely nice and friendly, the vibe is great and even the dessert blew our mind. Exceeded our expectations for sure, will become regulars 100% 🍕🔝
Buddy Haskins★★★★★
Came early on a Friday evening for some apps and beers. Definitely didn’t disappoint! Appetizers were spot on and the IPAs delivered everything I was looking for in West Coast IPA. This will be a favorite whenever in town. Can’t wait to come back!
Max Gonzalez★★★★★
Myself and my Wife have been coming here since they opened and it’s been great to see them settle into their own and become a favorite of ours.
A nice selection of beers (Mucho Gusto Mexican Lager, Helles Munich Lager, & Matamata IPA are standouts), as well as really solid food. Our personal favorites food wise has to be the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, Chicken Bacon Avocado Sandwich, & Can’t go wrong with the Jala Pep Pizza (different pizza photo’d but really all of them are solid). The pizza is especially stand out if you’re looking for thin crust that isn’t overly greasy/oily. It’s a spacious spot that has plenty inside as well as outside seating, making it perfect for those beautiful Austin days.
Needless to say we’ll be coming back for a long time and appreciate the friendly staff and atmosphere. Cheers!
Juan Arreche★★★★★
First time here and definitely would come back! We were greeted immediately when we walked in. The beer options are plentiful and so are the food options. I’m vegetarian and appreciate having so many options, especially on a pizza!
Al P.★★★★☆
Nice little microbrewery with good ambience and solid pizza. Online ordering is broken.
We preferred the bar pizza they had before (until June 2026). The kitchen is now managed by Via313, and their Detroit Style (deep dish) pizza is quite good, but their bar pizza (i.e., thin crust) leaves something to be desired, especially compared to what they had before turning it over to Via313. Also, the online ordering doesn't work since they made the change-over.
Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom

| Address | 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 712-5590 |
Sherry M★★★★☆
Amazing atmosphere and sour for me! Brown ale for my guy. Highly recommend this place! Only got 4 stars because I feel there should be a guy playing guitar on weekends instead of rap music which kills the atmosphere.
Shawn White★★★★★
Nice space for sitting in or out. Good beers, good food trucks, limited area compared to Central Machine Works, but the only good Hefeweizen I could find in Austin, so that’s worth a 5 star review in my book!
Jovana S★★★★☆
Blown away with how incredible the honey gin drink is here. Enjoyed it so much we made it a point to come back a second time during our weekend in Austin. Love the atmosphere and that there are food options right next door.
Dean Robinson★★★★☆
Came before the Joji concert at Moody. A buddy of mine wanted to stop by and also get something at spicy boys. I got a delicious Mangonada. Price was dope too cause of happy hr. And, got a souvenir cup out of it too for free haha.
Stephen Harvey★★★★★
Another great craft beer option in ATX. Staff were beyond accommodating and sincerely nice. Beer selection is good. The inside space is compact but there is lots of space outside if weather permits.
St. Elmo Brewing Company

| Address | 440 E St Elmo Rd G-2, Austin, TX 78745 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 243-7664 |
Kanchan P. Adhikari★★★★☆
Great place to grab a couple of beers! 🍻 They have quite a variety of beers on the menu. I tried one regular beer and one IPA, and really enjoyed both.
They have both indoor and outdoor seating, and there’s also a food truck on the premises where you can order food. We tried the fried chicken and potatoes, and both tasted great!
Overall, a nice place to relax, enjoy some good beers, and grab a bite. Would definitely love to visit again. Cheers! 🍻
Nicholas Stevenson★★★★☆
This is a fantastic spot to grab a couple beers. The atmosphere is lively, but not at all in a sensory overload sort of way. There’s long tables to sit, drink, play games, or just hangout. Out side there’s a beer garden vibe with a stage for live entertainment. They also have a food truck (Spicy Boys) on the premises
There’s quite a variety of beers in their menu. Most everything is listed behind the bar. You can buy by the glass or get a flight of 3. They offer wine, ciders, and frozen drinks as well. You can even take a 6-pack or two of your favorite beer home
The staff were friendly, patient, and professional. They will let you sample beers, give recommendations, etc. we never had to wait long in line
Some tips:
If you are unsure which beer to get or you think you might not want a full glass of a particular flavor, get the flight. They give 3 beers and a hop water to cleanse your palate in between. They also give you a list of the beers you chose on the back of a neat St. Elmo Brewing Company sticker
I can’t rave enough about Spicy Boys next door. If you’re feeling hungry, please try them. This was some of the best fried chicken I’ve had in terms of flavor and thrill from the tingly spicy sauce
They have trivia every Tuesday from 7-9. Some test your useless knowledge and win prizes
Cheers!!
Hanlin Wu★★★★★
St. Elmo Brewing Company is a very cool place to hang out. They have a wide variety of beer selections, including some seasonal options, so there’s always something interesting to try.
The environment feels welcoming, with plenty of seating, making it a great spot to meet up with friends. There are also a few food trucks on-site, which makes the experience even better.
It’s located in a renovated industrial area packed with other restaurants, breweries, and food trucks, so the whole area has a fun, lively vibe. Definitely worth checking out.
Kylo Ren★★★★★
So much fun! The vibe is welcoming to everyone. People are simply smiling, laughing, talking while have great food and drink options. The crew at St. Elmo is fire! Shout to their hospitality.
Jeremy Yowell★★★★★
Great brewery in a super cool industrial district with multiple other options to hangout at nearby (like Still Austin - which I also highly recommend). Would come back for another pour at St. Elmo.
Oasis Texas Brewing Company

| Address | 6650 Comanche Trail Suite #301, Austin, TX 78732 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
Thursday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
Friday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | — |
Pooja gayathri★★★★★
Oasis has an amazing view and a beautiful ambience, especially at night. The night view is absolutely spectacular and definitely the highlight of the experience. 🌃
We tried the shrimp tacos, which were good, and the drinks were actually my favorite part of the visit. The piña colada and espresso martini were both really good. The vegetarian options, however, are quite limited, so there isn’t much variety for vegetarians.
Overall, I enjoyed the atmosphere, views, and drinks more than the food. It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink while taking in the beautiful Austin night view.
Carina Jahn★★★★★
This is a really nice brewery. The beers are very good and the views are amazing. I've been here two times, and I would come more often if it wasn't such a long drive for me. I visited today for Barks for Beers and had the Peel the Love Witbier and fries with spicy ketchup. 🍟 The beer was light and had a really nice flavor. The fries were really good as well and it was a good sized portion. I also love that the outdoor seating is dog-friendly. It's nice to be able to bring my dog.
Hanlin Wu★★★★☆
Oasis Texas Brewing is definitely a unique place to hang out.
It’s one of those Austin spots that people often bring visitors to, and for that reason alone, it’s worth checking out at least once. It’s also probably one of the best places to watch the sunset over Lake Travis. The view is great, no question about that.
The space itself is interesting. Parts of the property almost feel like a small shopping mall, but some areas seem like they’ve been empty for a while. There is definitely a lot of potential there.
As for the drinks, they were okay. The food has a bit of a reputation for being not the main reason people visit, and I can kind of understand why. But then again, most people come here for the view, the atmosphere, and the sunset.
Overall, it’s worth visiting for the scenery and the experience, especially if you’re showing someone around Austin.
Chenwei Gao★★★★★
We visited Oasis Texas Brewing Company over the weekend and had an amazing experience. The lakeside sunset views were absolutely stunning—definitely one of the highlights of our Austin trip. We also tried the chicken and chips, which were delicious and paired perfectly with the atmosphere.
What really stood out, though, was the incredible hospitality. My drone unfortunately had a low-battery landing on the restaurant roof. The owner, Sean, went out of his way to help retrieve it. He was extremely kind, responsive, and genuinely willing to help, which made a stressful situation much easier.
I highly recommend this place not just for the views and food, but also for the exceptional service. Will definitely be back!
Elle Cox★★★★★
What a wonderful place! The views, the food, the drinks & it’s family friendly! I loved the music they played and the vibes all around, next time I’m in Austin I must come back #oasistexasbrewing @oasistexasbrewing #buzzybooth
Austin Beerworks

| Address | 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 821-2494 |
Graciela Conklin★★★★☆
Very lively place to drink a beer and gather with friends and be friendly to a stranger sitting next to you or across from you. There are 8 large tables with benches and an outdoor sitting area. It’s Austin, find all kinds of wonderful people. There seems to be different kinds of groups meeting, showing diversity. The beer is good. Not sure about the food, we didn’t know there was food offered because it was not on their website. But maybe next time we are in Austin.
Stephen Orsak★★★★☆
Scoping out spots for a group hang. Plenty of patio space for large groups. Counter service for convenience. You order food and beer from the bar. I had the shrimp taco and it was delicious and chunky. I’ll be back.
Jonas Fischer★★★★★
Austin Beerworks is everything you could want from a local brewery and so much more. The beer selection is outstanding with a great variety of styles that cater to every kind of beer lover. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or a bold and hoppy IPA, they have something that will hit the spot perfectly. The quality and consistency of their brews is truly impressive and you can taste the craftsmanship in every single pint. The taproom itself has an amazing laid back vibe that is quintessentially Austin, with plenty of space to hang out, enjoy your drinks and have great conversations. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic about their beer which makes the whole experience even better. If you are a beer lover visiting or living in Austin, Austin Beerworks is an absolute must visit. One of the finest local breweries in the city without a doubt.
Jacob Krupski★★★★★
If I had to drink one beer for the rest of my life it would be flavor country, if I couldn’t have FC it would be peacemaker.
I drink a lot of craft beer, more than I’m proud to admit and there are tons of options out there but I still Probably buy ABW about 30% of the time when I hit the paralysis of options at the store I just turn to the ole ABW Core 4 and it never fails. First time actually visiting the brewery / taproom - great vibe. Keep on doing your thing ABW ❤️
Lizandro Rodriguez★★★★★
Round two of me and my wife trying out local breweries in Austin, first impression, very industrial and gritty, not a bad thing.
A nice variety of beers on tap, atmosphere was great, had a great Mexican food truck out there that rivaled what I would imagine a lot of Mexican establishments. Overall it was a great experience and neat brewery, if i was a local I’d visit more often.
Blue Owl Brewing

| Address | 2400 E Cesar Chavez St #300, Austin, TX 78702 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 593-1262 |
cjmaldonado13★★★★★
Blue Owl Brewing is my absolute favorite sour beer spot in Austin, Texas. The taproom and outdoor patio offer a relaxed, welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down and enjoying a crisp, refreshing brew. The staff is incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to help navigate their unique lineup of sour-mashed beers. Whether you are a dedicated sour lover or just looking for a cool place to relax with a great drink, this East Austin gem is a must-visit.
Amy Crooks★★★★★
Blue Owl never disappoints. The variety of sours and beers will cover everyone’s tastes in your group! Great patio, super dog friendly, and super friendly staff! Not hard to park on the streets around the area. Great neighborhood! Cheers!
Stephanie Pringnitz★★★★★
Always a good vibe at blue owl!
Unique decor and flavors that never disappoint!
Service is always on point as well!
Came in and tried the chocolate dapper devil- which is seasonal & a neat twist to the regular dapper devil that comes out around this time, yearly!
The chocolate was very faint and the combo was enjoyable!
There are other option if sours aren’t your thing- including non alcoholic options!
10/10 recommend checking them out if in the area!
Joseph Marchione★★★★★
Brandon poured some amazing beers - I’m not usually a sour fan, like I can enjoy 1 in a flight or 6, but this experience was one hit after another, and grabbed a few packs to bring home. Great brews & good vibes 🤙🏼
Sam Silver★★★★★
The new brewmaster Brandon is a hoot and a hollar! Beers great too. As for the environment, cozy inside, unassuming outside. They have sours and regular beers so don’t let that stop you. cheers!
Austin Beerworks - Sprinkle Valley

| Address | 10300 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78754 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 821-2494 |
Sharon Lee★★★★★
Great place to have a drink. They offer many options besides beer. Friendly staff, spacious indoor and outdoor seating. Kids and pets friendly, they have playground for them. Food trucks offer variety of food,no need to worry what food you can order. They also host events in the dome outside of the parking lot.
PM★★★★★
Made the trek out this way for Parish BBQ but had a beer as well. Good service, cool merch. As a woman, I was really impressed by the restroom. Stocked with pretty much anything a girl could need in an emergency.
Bobby★★★★★
Fantastic go-to spot for delicious beer and good vibes. Plenty of room to park. Plenty of room to sit. Shaded outdoor area. Air conditioned indoor area. Tons of merch. Fun place to watch games. Keep it up!
Bruce Ellis★★★★★
Nice and roomy whether you went to enjoy the brews inside or outdoors. Be sure to check out their websites for events, concerts in the concert dome, and plan to enjoy the 18 hole disc golf course.
David Chambers★★★★☆
Great disc golf course with a nice hang out place at the end of each 9 hole loop.
Central District Brewing

| Address | 417 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701 |
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (512) 993-4511 |
Christopher Mix★★★★☆
Just got in from East Texas and saw this Microbrewery just up the street from the Fairmont. Had to check out the place since it is only 5 minutes walking from Hotel. The Hazy IPA is quite good and I recommend it. Going to try one more then go down the street to a restaurant.
Jack C★★★★★
I dropped by this brewery as part of my downtown brewery walking tour on 7/3. It was HOT walking under the sun but it is worth it. I had the West Coast IPA and it was fantastic. I really like their beer. So the next day (7/4), we dropped by the brewery again after visiting Museum of the Weird. This time, I tried the Cold IPA, the Hazy IPA, and the sour. All are fantastic. I would come back to visit this brewery again when I am in Austin again.
Mike A.★★★★☆
Stopped into Central District Brewing for a quick round while in town. I didn’t get a full sense of everything they offer, but the Forever Freedom beer definitely did the job—solid, easy to drink, and hit the spot.
The vibe seemed relaxed from what I saw, but since it was a quick visit, I didn’t get to explore much beyond that one pour. It’s the kind of place I’d come back to with a little more time to really check out their lineup.
Looking forward to giving it a proper visit next time I’m in Austin.
Manuel Rodriguez★★★★★
I had a really good ale! Very nice place with great service and smooth country music playing softly.
Laura J★★★★☆
The beers were OK. They didn't have wheat beer and had one kind of cider. The guy serving was slightly strange, but perhaps that's the local vibe..
How to Choose the Right Austin Brewery for Your Visit
With over fifty breweries operating in the metro area, selecting the right spot often depends on your mood, your company, and your palate. While every location on our list offers exceptional quality, they each serve a different purpose. Understanding the nuances of the Austin beer scene—from traffic patterns to seasonal releases—can elevate a simple drinking session into a perfect afternoon.
Consider the Beer Style First
If you are a devout fan of hazy IPAs and pastry stouts, you will want to prioritize the modern innovators and experimental taprooms. However, if your palate leans toward traditional German lagers, Czech pilsners, or Belgian farmhouse ales, you should seek out the breweries that specialize in classic European methodologies. Before heading out, check the brewery’s current tap list online; Austin breweries rotate their offerings frequently, and a flagship taproom might be out of your favorite seasonal release.
Factor in the Austin Heat
Austin is famously hot for much of the year, which makes climate control a critical factor in your brewery selection. Many of the best taprooms feature expansive outdoor beer gardens with shade trees, misting fans, and even swimming pools or creeks. If you are visiting between June and September, prioritize venues with robust indoor air conditioning or significant shade. Conversely, during the mild winter and spring months, an outdoor patio becomes the ideal setting for a long afternoon.
Evaluate the Food Situation
While some breweries boast full-scale kitchens serving gourmet pizzas or barbecue, others operate on a "bring your own food" or food truck model. If you are planning a multi-hour stay or drinking high-ABV beers, having access to solid food is non-negotiable. Check if the brewery has a permanent kitchen, a rotating schedule of food trucks, or if you should plan to order delivery. Many Austin breweries are located near iconic taco trucks, which creates the perfect pairing opportunity.
Check the Entertainment Calendar
Austin is the "Live Music Capital of the World," and many breweries double as event venues. Some offer trivia nights, vinyl listening parties, or local market days on the weekends. If you are looking for a quiet conversation, a brewery hosting a loud metal show might not be the right fit. Conversely, if you want the full Austin experience, finding a taproom with a local band on a Friday night is a must.
Think About Your Group Dynamic
Traveling with kids or a dog changes the calculus significantly. While Austin is famously pet-friendly, not every production facility can accommodate animals due to health codes. If you have a family, look for breweries with large outdoor spaces, non-alcoholic options like house-made root beer or kombucha, and a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes the sound of children playing.
Plan Your Transportation
Austin’s sprawl can make brewery hopping tricky, and drunk driving is never an option. Many of the best breweries are clustered in specific neighborhoods, such as the East Side or the Brewery District near Fitzhugh Road. Consider booking a ride-share, utilizing the city’s public transit, or designating a driver. Some local tour companies offer guided bus tours that safely transport you between the top locations, allowing you to sample without worry.
Austin’s brewing industry is a testament to the city’s creative energy and community-focused ethos. Whether you are sipping a spontaneously fermented sour under a live oak tree or enjoying a crisp pilsner in an industrial warehouse, you are participating in a tradition that is uniquely Austin. The breweries listed above represent the best of the best, but the true joy of this city is that a new favorite is always just around the corner waiting to be discovered.
Mia Charlotte is a food journalist and certified Local Guide based in Brooklyn, New York. For over ten years, she has explored every corner of the city to discover hidden gems and the best places to visit.