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Satisfy Your Thirst with the Best Breweries in Portland
Ever walked into a brewery and instantly felt like you’d stumbled into a secret society of craft beer lovers? That’s Portland’s beer scene—where the brews are bold, the flavors unexpected, and the vibe anything but basic.
Let’s ditch the usual and dive into a true-tasting adventure. Ready? Let’s go!
1. Little Beast Brewing Co.
Media Credits: littlebeastbrewing
Website: https://www.littlebeastbrewing.com/
Address: 3412 SE Division St
Contact: (503) 208-2723
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Little Beast Brewing Co. is a Portland-based craft brewery that leans into farmhouse ales and barrel-aged beers.
Since launching in 2017, they’ve built a reputation for small-batch brews that combine traditional techniques with creative experimentation, especially with wild yeast strains.
Their lineup includes beers like Bes (a foeder-aged farmhouse ale packing a 9% ABV punch) and Fresh Hop Pinetop (a seasonal brew highlighting freshly harvested hops’ bold, earthy flavors).
The brewery’s taproom offers a laid-back space to explore its ever-evolving selection, with a mix of approachable and more adventurous flavors.
Pro tip: The brewery’s kitchen offers a delicious menu of food options. Be sure to pair your beers with their seasonal dishes for a complete tasting experience.
2. Culmination Brewing
Media Credits: culminationbrewing
Website: https://www.culminationbrewing.beer/
Address: 2117 NE Oregon St
Contact: (971) 254-9114
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Culmination Brewing has been mixing classic styles with more experimental brews since 2014. It even snagged the Best New Brewery award at the Oregon Beer Awards and has kept the creativity going ever since.
Their lineup includes hop-forward IPAs, Belgian dubbels, and tart fruit beers. The Phaedrus IPA—known for its tropical aroma and piney, fruity notes—stands out as a fan favorite.
Their four-vessel brewing system gives them plenty of flexibility to play around with different styles, so the tap list is always evolving.
The vibe? Relaxed and unpretentious—just a solid spot to explore a wide variety of craft beer.
Pro tip: The bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly; don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations based on your taste preferences.
3. Breakside
Media Credits: breaksidebrews
Website: https://breakside.com/
Address: 1570 NW 22nd Ave
Contact: (503) 444-7597
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Breakside Brewery has been a key player in Portland’s craft beer scene since 2010. It cranks out around 30,000 barrels a year and constantly experiments with new flavors.
Their brew lineup includes everything from hoppy standouts like Breakside IPA—a favorite for its crisp malt balance and fruity hop punch—to a rotating mix of seasonal and small-batch brews.
They’ve also shifted to employee ownership in recent years, giving their team a bigger role in shaping the brewery’s future.
Pro tip: Take advantage of their rotating tap list to explore seasonal and limited-edition beers.
4. Ruse Brewing
Media Credits: rusebrewing
Website: https://www.rusebrewing.com/
Address: 4784 SE 17th Ave
Contact: (503) 206-6358
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Ruse Brewing has made a name for itself in Portland’s beer scene with its creative, small-batch approach and ever-evolving tap list. It operates on a 10-barrel system, which means there’s always something fresh and interesting pouring.
Their Papyrus Iris hazy IPA is a local favorite, known for its bold, juicy hop character. Ruse keeps things dynamic, frequently collaborating with other breweries and hosting live music and community events.
The result? A laid-back, artsy space where craft beer meets creativity.
Pro tip: To maximize your visit, regularly check their social media for announcements regarding special brew releases, events, and collaborations.
5. Away Days Brewing Co.
Media Credits: awaydaysbrewingco
Website: https://www.awaydaysbrewing.com/
Address: 1234 SE Cora St
Email: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Price: $
Away Days Brewing Co. takes a European approach to beer, focusing on classic lagers and ales with a clean, crisp finish. They’ve leaned into the communal energy of soccer culture since opening in 2019, bringing that same camaraderie to their taproom.
Their go-to brews include Cora Pilsner and Post Match Pilsner, both easy-drinking and true to their traditional roots. While they stick to time-honored brewing methods, their IPAs bring a modern twist with bright tropical flavors.
The taproom isn’t just about the beer—it’s also a gathering spot where craft beer and football fans can connect over a shared love of good pints and good company.
Pro tip: Look out for their branded merchandise that reflects the brewery’s adventurous culture.
6. Backwoods Brewing
Media Credits: backwoodsbrewingcompany
Website: https://www.backwoodsbrewingcompany.com/
Address: 231 NW 11th Ave
Contact: (503) 327-8588
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
Backwoods Brewing, with a spot in Portland and a few others beyond, is known for its laid-back and rustic vibe and an assortment of well-loved beers.
Their Pecan Pie Porter and Party Acres Juicy IPA have earned plenty of attention, but the tap list covers a wide range—from hop-heavy IPAs to rich seasonal stouts.
They like to keep things fresh by incorporating local ingredients and experimenting with brewing techniques, all while sticking to their family-owned roots.
Pro tip: Enjoy hearty pub fare that pairs excellently with the beers. Their sandwiches and other options come highly recommended.
7. Baerlic Beer Co.
Website: https://www.baerlicbrewing.com/
Address: 2239 SE 11th Ave
Contact: (503) 477-9418
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
Baerlic Beer Co. keeps things casual in its taproom, making it a great spot to try something new or just enjoy a solid pint. Since 2014, they’ve been brewing a mix of classic and experimental beers with a strong focus on quality and local ingredients.
Their brew display is always evolving, featuring seasonal and small-batch releases alongside brews like Dad Beer (a crisp, easy-drinking favorite) and Dark Thoughts Black IPA (an award-winning brew with a bold edge).
As an independent brewery, Baerlic takes a hands-on approach. It self-distributes its beers and stays true to its craft-driven origins.
Pro tip: Baerlic houses ranch pizza, which has garnered positive reviews. Pair it with their craft beers for a hearty meal.
8. Steeplejack Brewing Co.
Website: https://www.steeplejackbeer.com/
Address: 2400 NE Broadway
Contact: (503) 206-8880
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Steeplejack Brewing Co. has been making waves since its 2021 launch in Portland, with plans to expand to Manzanita. Its brewer, Anna Buxton, even earned recognition as one of StarChef’s rising stars.
Founded by Brody Day and Dustin Harder, the brewery’s unique vibe comes from its home in a repurposed church. The venue offers a cool atmosphere to sip craft beers and enjoy gourmet burgers.
Their beers, like the Northwest IPA (6.6% ABV) and West Coast Pilsner (5.2% ABV), focus on quality ingredients sourced locally.
Steeplejack was also awarded Best New Brewery at the 2022 Oregon Beer Awards, solidifying its place in the local beer scene.
Pro tip: Take time to appreciate the stunning architecture of the brewery, which is located inside a beautifully renovated church.
9. Brujos
Media Credits: brujos_brewing
Website: https://www.brujosbrewing.com/
Address: 2377 NW Wilson St
Email: brujos-brewing.squarespace.com
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – Thursday, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Price: $
Brujos Brewing, launched by Sam Zermeño in 2024, is all about creativity and community. It has quickly become known for its unique atmosphere, with decor that reflects Zermeño’s diverse background and interests.
Their brew variety includes inventive flavors like Triple Hazy India Pale Ale, a high-ABV beer with a complex hop profile.
The taproom also hosts local food collaborations and community events, creating a space that’s as much about connection as it is about great beer.
Pro tip: Take time to appreciate the immersive atmosphere of the brewery that blends occult and gothic themes, making your visit truly memorable.
10. Gigantic Brewing Co.
Media Credits: giganticbrewing
Website: https://www.giganticbrewing.com/
Address: 5224 SE 26th Ave
Contact: (503) 208-3416
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Gigantic Brewing Co., founded by Ben Love in Portland, thrives on pushing the boundaries of hop-driven flavors.
Their Gigantic IPA, featuring a bold blend of Citra and Mosaic hops, is a standout. It captures their focus on making beers that are both flavorful and easy to enjoy.
Another favorite is the Most Premium Russian Imperial Stout, a rich and indulgent brew with a high ABV that appeals to those who appreciate a full-bodied stout.
Gigantic also leans into seasonal and experimental brews, fostering creativity while maintaining high standards.
Pro tip: While the taproom doesn’t serve food directly, there are food carts nearby that provide delicious options to accompany your drinks.
11. Upright Brewing
Media Credits: uprightbrewing
Website: https://www.uprightbrewing.com/
Address: 240 N Broadway
Contact: (503) 914-5130
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Upright Brewing focuses on farmhouse-style ales with a unique twist. The brewery’s distinct brewing style is evident in its collection.
Their Engelberg Pilsner stands out for its crispness and the way it’s dry-hopped to give it a different edge in the pilsner category.
By using open fermentation, Upright lets the yeast’s natural character shape their beers, resulting in a range of creative and less common styles. One of them is Four, a wheat beer that showcases their blend of tradition and experimentation.
Celebrating 15 years, Upright has firmly marked its place in Portland’s evolving beer scene.
Pro tip: If available, try beers from the cask beer engine. They can provide a different mouthfeel and flavor profile compared to standard drafts.
12. Assembly Brewing
Media Credits: assembly_brewing
Website: https://assemblybrewingco.com/
Address: 6112 SE Foster Rd
Contact: (971) 888-5973
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
Assembly Brewing, founded in 2019, brings a strong community vibe to Portland. It offers a mix of creative brews and a Black-owned business perspective. Known for its Detroit-style pizza and a solid selection of beers, it’s quickly become a go-to spot for locals.
Standouts like Mic Drop (an oatmeal pale ale) and Tres Banditos (a Mexican lager) offer a taste of the brewery’s thoughtful and varied approach to brewing.
The taproom, housed in a renovated space with cool murals and artisan touches, has a welcoming pub feel that makes it a perfect hangout.
Pro tip: Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy the pleasant Portland weather while dining.
13. Zoiglhaus Brewing Co.
Media Credits: zoiglhausbrewing
Website: https://www.zoiglhaus.com/
Address: 5716 SE 92nd Ave
Contact: (971) 339-2374
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price: $
Zoiglhaus Brewing Co. takes inspiration from the classic German brewpub model, mixing old-school brewing techniques with a strong sense of community.
It was founded by brewmaster Alan Taylor, who honed his craft in Berlin. That’s why the brewery specializes in traditional German styles, like its award-winning Zoigl-Pils, which sticks to classic German Pilsner methods.
With an annual output of 5,000 barrels, they’re expanding into a new 35bbl brewhouse to keep up with their growth. Beyond just beer, Zoiglhaus also features a food hall that has a variety of eats that pair perfectly with their beers.
Pro tip: Zoiglhaus frequently hosts events celebrating their brewing styles that cater to diverse audiences, so check their schedule for upcoming activities.
