Local Beer Buying Options: Where To Purchase Yours?

If you're looking to buy beer, there are a variety of options available to you. In Ontario, Canada, you can find beer at licensed convenience, grocery, and big-box grocery stores, as well as at The Beer Store, which has over 440 retail stores across the province. The Beer Store is a privately-owned chain of retail outlets founded in 1927, offering a wide selection of domestic and foreign beers. Alternatively, you can opt for local breweries, such as the Amsterdam Brewing Company, Great Lakes Brewery, or Northern Maverick Brewing Company, which offer their own unique brews. For those looking for convenience, The Beer Guy offers beer delivery services, bringing your favourite beverage right to your doorstep. So, whether you're exploring the diverse options at The Beer Store or supporting local breweries, there are plenty of choices available to satisfy your beer cravings.

Local breweries

Los Angeles boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of award-winning brewers spread across the city. If you're looking to sample some locally brewed beers, here are some great local breweries to check out:

Benny Boy Brewing

Located in Lincoln Heights, Benny Boy Brewing offers a spacious indoor-outdoor setup that frequently hosts events and parties. They have a range of quality brews and cider on tap, along with a variety of pop-up food nights.

Malibu Brewing Company

Malibu Brewing Company is a taproom and restaurant with a charming, dog-friendly patio offering indoor and outdoor seating. They have 20 beers on tap, along with a menu that includes wings, nachos, flatbreads, and beer-braised short ribs.

Three Weavers Brewing Company

Three Weavers Brewing Company, located in Inglewood, is a woman-owned brewery leading the way for craft beer in Los Angeles. They offer a range of craft beers, along with board games, and their beers have even found their way into the SoFi Stadium.

Hop Merchants Bottle Shop and Taproom

Hop Merchants in North Hollywood is a neighbourhood spot, perfect for after-work gatherings. They have 16 rotating beers on draft, along with bottles and cans for those who prefer their drinks to-go. They also have rotating food vendors and allow outside food on certain days.

Monkish Brewing Co.

Monkish Brewing Co. is a cult-favourite craft brewer in Torrance. They have transformed their brewery space into a semi-shaded, cozy outdoor hangout since the pandemic, cultivating long lines and a dedicated fanbase.

Arts District Brewing Company

With over 30 beers on tap, a full bar, and games like dartboards, skee ball, and ping pong, the Arts District Brewing Company offers a playful brewery experience in a spacious 17,000-square-foot location. They also serve burgers, sandwiches, salads, and quesadillas.

Independent micro-breweries

If you're looking to support small, independent businesses and sample a wide variety of craft beer, then seeking out local microbreweries is a great option. Microbreweries are often known for their unique, small-batch beers, which can include anything from artisanal ales to gluten-free options and ciders.

One example of an independent microbrewery is the Independent Brewing Company, located in Bel Air, Maryland. This brewery, established in 2015, features a large taproom and patio in the heart of the historic downtown area. With 26 rotating taps, they offer a range of small-batch artisanal ales and ciders, many brewed with locally-sourced ingredients and gluten-free options. The Independent Brewing Company also has a daily rotating calendar of local food trucks, providing a variety of fresh and seasonal cuisine to accompany your beer.

To find microbreweries in your area, you can utilize online resources such as BeerMenus, which is used by over 7.3 million beer enthusiasts to find great beer. Additionally, websites like CraftBeer.com offer the ability to search for breweries by state or by using a "breweries near me" feature. These tools can help you discover hidden gems, whether it's a nearby brewpub or a newly-opened nano-brewery.

Another option for purchasing beer is Total Wine & More, which offers an extensive selection of more than 2,500 beers, including popular national brands and the latest microbrews. They have physical stores and also provide the convenience of online shopping. However, it's important to note that their availability and policies may vary based on state laws and COVID-19-related measures.

Retail stores

If you're looking to buy beer from a retail store, there are several options available to you.

One option is to visit a specialist beer retailer. These stores stock a wide range of beers, including popular national brands and new, unique microbrews. They often have a large selection of imported beers from various countries, such as Italy, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Japan, and Mexico. Some stores also offer beer kegs and glassware, providing a one-stop shop for all your beer-related needs. You can also refer to online platforms such as BeerMenus, which help you find great beer near you.

Alternatively, you can opt for a general retailer that sells beer alongside other alcoholic beverages, such as wine and spirits. These stores often have a wide selection of beers and may offer competitive prices. Examples of such retailers include Sam's Club and Total Wine & More. Sam's Club, for instance, offers a range of domestic, imported, and craft beers, allowing you to find popular options like Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller, as well as imported beers like Amsel Light and Newcastle Brown Ale.

Total Wine & More boasts a selection of over 2,500 beers available both in-store and online. They offer a range of national brands and microbrews, ensuring that whether you're looking for a popular option or something more unique, they have something to suit your taste.

Lastly, some smaller, independent retailers may also stock beer alongside other products. These stores may be convenient if you're looking for a more localized shopping experience or if you're already purchasing other items from the store. An example of such a store is Bonsai & Wein, a small wine shop in Saarburg, which also offers beer for purchase.

Remember to always drink responsibly and abide by the legal drinking age restrictions in your region.

Grocery stores

If you're looking to buy beer from a grocery store, there are several options to choose from.

Total Wine & More is a liquor, wine, and beer store that carries over 2,500 beers available for purchase in-store or online. They offer a wide range of beer types, including popular national brands, microbrews, ales, lagers, specialty styles, gluten-free options, and imported beers from various countries. Total Wine & More also provides beer kegs and glassware, making it a one-stop shop for all your beer needs.

Sam's Club is another great option for buying beer in bulk. They offer a variety of domestic, imported, and craft beers at competitive prices. You can find well-known brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller, as well as imported beers like Amsel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Pilsner Urquell. Sam's Club also has seasonal variety packs, so you can explore and discover new favorites.

Additionally, local grocery stores in your area may also carry a selection of beers. These stores often have a dedicated liquor or beer section, offering various options, including popular domestic and imported brands. The availability of specific brands and types of beer may vary by location, but these stores provide a convenient option for picking up beer along with your groceries.

When purchasing beer from grocery stores, it is important to keep in mind any applicable state laws or restrictions on the sale and pickup of alcoholic beverages, as these may vary depending on your location.

Online

Buying beer online is a convenient option for those who want to explore a wide range of beer choices from the comfort of their homes. Here is a guide to buying beer online:

Understanding Online Beer Sales and Delivery Services:

Shipping Alcohol Laws and Regulations:

It's important to note that shipping alcohol laws vary widely by state and country. Before placing an order, always check the local regulations of your state or country to avoid any legal issues. Some states, like Florida and Kentucky, allow direct shipment of all spirits, including beer, to your door. On the other hand, states like Utah strictly prohibit alcohol deliveries, making online purchases unavailable.

Popular Online Platforms for Beer Delivery:

• Tavour (app)
• Halftimebeverage.com
• Craftshack.com
• Freshdirect.com (for NYC)
• Beercraft.com (for California and some other states)
• Totalwine.com (for California)
• Beermerchants.com (for the UK)

Tips for a Smooth Online Beer Purchasing Experience:

When buying beer online, it's essential to understand the direct shipment rules and local delivery options in your area. Keep in mind that some carriers, like the United States Postal Service, do not handle alcohol deliveries, so your orders will typically be shipped via private carriers such as FedEx or UPS. Additionally, always have a valid ID ready during delivery, as most states require age verification upon receipt of the package.

Frequently asked questions