Best Places To Buy Pub Beer

The independent beer scene is brimming with craft beer options, from brew pubs to microbreweries and nano breweries. With over 50,000 pubs in the UK alone, there's a lot of choice when it comes to buying pub beer. In the US, you can use a beer locator to find out where to buy pub beer, and in the UK, guides such as The Good Pub Guide or the CAMRA Good Beer Guide can help you find the best pubs.

Breweries and brew pubs

The US has a thriving independent beer scene, with a variety of craft beer options to choose from. From brew pubs to microbreweries and nano breweries, there is always a new craft brewery to explore and enjoy.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor has a unique and exciting bar and brew scene, with a vast and varied craft beer and craft spirits culture. It is home to internationally recognized microbreweries and many distilleries.

Portland, Oregon

The brewer-owned and operated Crux Fermentation Project in Portland, Oregon, is a must-visit. They use non-traditional methods and experimentation to create their lagers and ales. Their pub features an extensive tap list of beer, cider, and house-blended wine, as well as classic bar food, including pretzels and fish and chips.

Orlando, Florida

Redlight Redlight in Orlando, Florida, is a microbrewery and bottle shop with a unique and extensive selection of bottled and draft beers. They also offer a food menu that changes frequently based on available ingredients and even serve Sunday brunch.

Machesney Park, Illinois

Pig Minds Brewing Co. in Machesney Park, Illinois, is the country's first vegan brewery. They specialize in handcrafted American and German ales and lagers, and their on-site restaurant is completely plant-based.

San Diego, California

Blind Lady Ale House in San Diego, California, was the first licensed brewery in Uptown San Diego and a trendsetter in the city's nano brewery scene. They offer a menu of craft beer and 12-inch pizzas, along with live jazz on Thursdays and music on vinyl every Friday and Saturday.

Baraboo, Wisconsin

Tumbled Rock Brewery & Kitchen in Baraboo, Wisconsin, offers a cozy fireplace to warm up during the cold months and a patio to enjoy a cold brew during the warmer seasons. Their dining menu goes beyond typical pub grub, featuring dishes like salmon bowls, ahi tuna steaks, and lobster mac and cheese.

Roswell, Georgia

From the Earth Brewing Company in Roswell, Georgia, welcomes guests with a warm and inviting atmosphere. They offer around a dozen house drafts and a farm-to-table fare menu, including sandwiches, salads, steak, and seafood. They are committed to sourcing fresh and local ingredients whenever possible.

Richmond, Virginia

The Answer Brewpub in Richmond, Virginia, founded by An Bui, the "Chief Beer Officer," features two bars and over 50 beers on tap. Their food menu includes pub fare, Asian dishes, and the unique Greeknamese sandwich, a combination of a Greek gyro and Vietnamese bánh mì.

Chicago, Illinois

Forbidden Root in Chicago, Illinois, is the city's first botanic brewery, specializing in nature-inspired craft beers made from wild fruits and botanicals. Their seasonal dish menu is designed to complement their beers, and guests can even take their favorite beer home in a growler.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, known as a beer city, is home to the Lakefront Brewery and its restaurant, Beer Hall. Here, you can indulge in Milwaukee favorites like brats, fried pickles, and cheese curds, along with a tap list of approximately two dozen beers.

Dewey Beach, Delaware

Dewey Beer Co. in Dewey Beach, Delaware, is just a stone's throw from the Atlantic shore. They offer a variety of beers on tap, from fruited beers to IPAs and stouts, along with a food menu that includes handhelds and hearty entrees like lo mein, pappardelle, and carne asada.

With so many options to choose from, you can easily find a craft brewery or brew pub to suit your tastes and explore the diverse world of craft beer.

Microbreweries

There are several ways microbreweries can sell their products. The three-tier system involves selling to a wholesaler, who then sells to a retailer, and finally to the consumer. In the two-tier system, the brewer acts as the wholesaler, selling directly to the retailer. Some microbreweries also make direct sales to consumers through carry-outs or on-site taprooms or restaurants.

In addition to producing exceptional beer, microbreweries also positively impact their surrounding communities. They contribute to local tourism, with some offering tours and tastings, and others becoming well-known as local landmarks. Many microbreweries give back to their communities through charitable donations and outreach. They also support local farmers by sourcing ingredients from them, boosting the local economy. This network of support extends to other nearby microbreweries, as they often collaborate rather than compete, creating a thriving craft beer culture that draws visitors to the region.

If you're looking to buy pub beer, microbreweries offer a unique and flavourful experience. With their focus on quality, innovation, and community, microbreweries provide a refreshing alternative to mass-produced beers. You can explore various online resources, such as craftbeer.com, to locate microbreweries near you and discover the distinct beers they have to offer.

Nano breweries

The term "nano brewery" refers to a small brewery or brewpub that produces a limited quantity of craft beer. These breweries often focus on unique craft beers and cater to local markets. The defining factor of a nano brewery is its small output, with a common definition being a brewery that produces three barrels or less per batch, not exceeding 15,000 barrels annually.

The compact nature of nano breweries also results in lower overheads and more efficient operations, as evidenced by their ability to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their small-scale production and local focus meant they were less reliant on taprooms, wholesale distributors, and tasting room sales, allowing them to continue operating with minimal disruptions.

Starting a nano brewery requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. Aspiring nano-brewers should define their goals and target audience, conduct thorough market research, develop a comprehensive business plan, and ensure compliance with legal requirements and regulations. Additionally, understanding the cost implications and choosing the right equipment, such as all-in-one or modular systems, is crucial for a successful nano brewery operation.

Beer delivery services

One such service is Tavour, which offers a constantly evolving selection of beers from top breweries across the country. With Tavour, you can get your hands on highly-rated and sought-after beers, such as the DDH Double Citra Daydream from Other Half, rated as the best brewery for Hazy IPAs in Brooklyn.

Craftshack is another popular beer delivery service, offering a wide range of craft beers, as well as liquor, wine, and cider. They also offer gift boxes and variety packs, making it a great option for gifting or trying new beers. Craftshack provides speedy delivery and discounts for larger orders.

Athletic Brewing Co. specialises in non-alcoholic craft beers, offering a range of award-winning brews that are both great-tasting and innovative. With options like the Tucker's West Coast IPA and a variety of non-alcoholic sparkling waters, Athletic Brewing Co. provides a convenient way to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks delivered to your home.

In addition to these services, many local breweries and brewpubs may also offer delivery or pickup options, allowing you to support independent businesses while enjoying fresh, craft beers. These options can often be found through a simple online search or by visiting the websites of your favourite local breweries.

Local pubs

If you're looking for a pub that serves food, it's worth noting that better pubs serve lunches and dinners during set hours. Some pubs even have playgrounds and game rooms for children. Whether dogs are allowed is usually down to the pub landlord, but most allow well-behaved pets.

If you're looking to buy beer to take home, it's worth checking out the beer locator on the brewery's website, which will tell you where their beers have been delivered in the past 30 days.

Frequently asked questions