Top 17 breweries in Austin
Breweries in Austin are a thriving part of the city's vibrant food and drink scene. With a variety of unique and delicious craft beers to offer, these breweries have become popular destinations for both locals and tourists alike. Among the top breweries in Austin are The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co., Austin Beerworks, Pinthouse Brewing, Sahara Lounge, and Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom, each with their own distinct atmosphere and brews.
- 1. The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co.
- 2. Pinthouse Brewing
- 3. Austin Beerworks
- 4. Meanwhile Brewing
- 5. Hold Out Brewing
- 6. Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom
- 7. St. Elmo Brewing Company
- 8. Oddwood Brewing
- 9. Central Machine Works
- 10. Celis Brewery
- 11. Blue Owl Brewing
- 12. Lazarus Brewing Co.
- 13. Hopsquad Brewing Co
- 14. Central District Brewing
- 15. Southern Heights Brewing Company
- 16. Last Stand Brewing Bar and Kitchen
- 17. Vacancy Brewing
1. The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co.
Sprawling beer garden with food trucks, pet-friendly, and regular live music

Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company is a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts and those seeking a lively outdoor dining experience, with a rating of 4 stars. The atmosphere can be crowded and noisy, but the service remains good and the food is excellent. However, finding parking can be a challenge due to the lack of parking-friendly options in Austin.
During a visit on a Saturday at 6 pm, the parking lot was full, and it was necessary to search for alternative parking. Once inside, the establishment was crowded and noisy, but the service staff worked hard to accommodate patrons. There was an initial mistake with the first beer order, but it was quickly corrected. The food and beer were both delicious, leaving a positive impression overall. The intention is to return during a less hectic time.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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2. Pinthouse Brewing
In-house brewery with a wide selection of beers

The restaurant in question offers excellent food and beer, providing a memorable dining experience. The location is stylish, and its decor is particularly noteworthy. A return visit is highly recommended.
The establishment is spacious, boasting a bright and comfortable atmosphere. The food served was remarkable, surpassing initial expectations. Standout dishes included meatball sliders and chop salad, both of which received high praise. While pizza is not on the menu, the wide variety of beer options is impressive. A follow-up visit has already been planned.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
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3. Austin Beerworks
Family-owned and operated, dogs welcome, food trucks on site

While an abundance of breweries may grace Austin's landscape, Austin Beerworks sets itself apart with its exceptional limited-release creations that push the boundaries of flavor and style. Among the must-try brews, the Helles lager "Super Awesome" lives up to its name with a delectable, smooth finish, while the "Lotion in the Basket" German Keller bier offers an unforgettable tasting experience that leaves a lasting impression on beer enthusiasts. Come savor the difference in every sip.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
4. Meanwhile Brewing
Family-owned brewery with a focus on community and sustainability

Meanwhile Brewing Company, based in Austin, TX, can be explored on Untappd to find ratings, reviews, and information on their beers and locations. The brewery, which opened in October 2020, was created with a unique concept in mind. Unlike traditional breweries with "sticky floors and weird smells," owner and brewmaster Jaquiss opted for a different approach. Meanwhile Brewery is designed to bring people together through sports, live music, food, family-friendly environments, and cold beer.
Sales and marketing director Conner Gilfillan highlighted the brewery's focus on creating a welcoming space for everyone. Meanwhile aims to provide a gathering place for people to socialize and enjoy their high-quality cold brews, while also offering entertainment and food options. The brewery offers a variety of beers for different tastes and preferences. Meanwhile Brewing Company, therefore, offers not just a brewery experience, but a community-centered space to relax, socialize, enjoy good food and beer, and listen to live music.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
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5. Hold Out Brewing
Features a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables, TVs, and string lights.

Hold Out Brewing is a great brewery in Austin offering a wide variety of beers, especially notable for their excellent IPAs. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are happy to help customers find the perfect beer to suit their tastes.
Visitors to Hold Out Brewing will enjoy a fantastic beer selection and a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual hangout. With a reputation as one of the best breweries in Austin, it's no surprise that Hold Out Brewing is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
6. Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom
Passionate about Austin and craft beer, family-friendly atmosphere

Zilker Brewing Company, located on East 6th, is a craft brewery that has gained popularity, rivaling nearby bars. They are known for their high-quality beers, with their hazy IPAs being a standout favorite among locals. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to socialize with friends.
During a recent visit, I tried the Coffee Milk Stout and was impressed. As a coffee enthusiast, I found the beer to be a delightful surprise on a hot day. The blend of coffee and stout was expertly balanced, creating a refreshing and satisfying drink. Zilker Brewing Company has successfully combined the joy of drinking coffee with the pleasure of savoring a well-crafted beer.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. St. Elmo Brewing Company
Located in a former auto shop, Hosts food trucks, Live music events

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Oddwood Brewing
Made with 100% wind-powered energy, dog-friendly patio

The beer selection at this establishment is impressive, featuring a variety of well-crafted options that are sure to satisfy any beer enthusiast. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is something for everyone. In addition to the great beer, the food offerings are also top-notch. The margarita pizza, in particular, is a standout, with the added arugula providing a fresh and peppery contrast to the tangy sauce and gooey cheese.
The venue itself is spacious and family-friendly, with a playground located in the back for children to enjoy. There is ample seating both indoors and outdoors, making it a great spot to visit no matter the weather. Overall, the combination of delicious beer, tasty food, and inviting atmosphere make this a must-visit destination for beer lovers and families alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
9. Central Machine Works
Housed in a historic building with a unique atmosphere
Central Machine Works in Austin is a popular brewery known for its lively and energetic atmosphere. On weekends, the brewery features live music that adds to the enjoyment of drinking and eating. The large space is filled with picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for groups to gather.
This trendy brewery not only offers a great selection of beer but also features delicious food. With its spacious interior and welcoming ambiance, Central Machine Works has become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists in Austin. The combination of excellent beer, tasty food, and lively entertainment makes it a must-visit spot in the city.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
10. Celis Brewery
Family-owned brewery with a large outdoor area

Celis Brewery is a popular destination known for its excellent beers, welcoming staff, and reasonably priced merchandise. Four-legged friends are welcome inside the brewery, and there is often a food truck parked outside for visitors to enjoy. The spacious patio area at Celis Brewery is the perfect spot to relax with a delicious beer, listen to live music, and grab a bite to eat from a visiting food truck.
Celis Brewery's friendly atmosphere extends to dogs, who are allowed inside and on the large patio area. The brewery takes advantage of its outdoor space by hosting live music and inviting food trucks to park on-site, adding to the lively atmosphere and providing visitors with even more reasons to stay and enjoy themselves. The combination of great beer, food, and live music makes Celis Brewery an ideal destination for dog owners and beer lovers alike.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
11. Blue Owl Brewing
Small-batch brewery with a focus on sustainable practices and community engagement

$ The pastel-clad front yard says it all: inviting and quaint, but never boring. Blue Owl Brewing is a neighborhood staple, serving sour beers in a setting that doubles as a hipster-chic gallery, where twenty bucks gets you a "behind the tanks" tour and four 12-ounce beers. The brewery has made a name for itself specializing in sour beers, so if that's not your taste, this isn't the place for you. Jody Horton Activity on Pinterest
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
12. Lazarus Brewing Co.
Live music on weekends, Large selection of house-made sausages

This establishment, a taproom on the East Side, offers an excellent selection of local craft beer and provides a welcoming atmosphere for both patrons and their canine companions. The taproom features ample bar seating and a shaded patio, perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a sunny day.
During a recent visit to Austin, a friend recommended the Lazarus taproom, and it did not disappoint. The food and drink offerings were impressive, and the service was outstanding. The employees were knowledgeable and helpful, describing the various options and allowing tastes before final selection. In particular, employee Zane went above and beyond to ensure a positive experience for the visitors.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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13. Hopsquad Brewing Co
Local brewery with a strong community focus

Beer lovers appreciate the high-quality and diverse selection of beers available at the establishment. A notable aspect is the regularly changing tap list, which keeps things interesting for regulars and visitors alike. With so many beer styles to choose from, there's always something new to try.
The atmosphere of the bar is enhanced by its location near food trucks, providing additional dining options for patrons. The barista's friendly demeanor contributes to the welcoming environment. However, the lack of air conditioning or ample shade makes it challenging to enjoy the space during hot weather. The potential for a fun pub crawl or evening visits in the fall suggests that the bar could be more enjoyable in cooler temperatures.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
14. Central District Brewing
Featuring a variety of unique and experimental brews.

Central District Brewing is renowned for its high-quality and varied beer selection, earning accolades such as fantastic, friendly, and phenomenal. The atmosphere is equally impressive, offering a welcoming ambiance that features soft Brazilian music and an industrial decor with rose gold and live plant accents.
The brewery's atmosphere is a standout feature, boasting a welcoming and comfortable environment with industrial style and rose gold accents. Soft Brazilian music plays in the background, while live plants add to the decor, contributing to the overall fantastic and friendly atmosphere that customers rave about. The phenomenal beer selection is not to be overlooked, with a wide variety of high-quality options available for customers to enjoy in this unique and inviting setting.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
15. Southern Heights Brewing Company
Featuring a 7-barrel brew house and a custom-built coolship for spontaneous fermentation

The service at this establishment is exceptional, with staff who are not only friendly but also helpful in making drink recommendations. The quality and variety of the beers on offer have received particular praise, with the Uncommon Grounds coffee Pilsner being a standout favorite among customers. The knowledgeable staff adds to the positive experience by offering helpful recommendations.
Food options are available as well, with a food truck parked outside serving up Mexican and Vietnamese cuisine. These mobile eateries have received rave reviews from patrons. For those looking for more information or further reviews, the establishment's Yelp page is a valuable resource.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
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16. Last Stand Brewing Bar and Kitchen
Family-owned brewery with a commitment to sustainable practices and community involvement.

A newly opened brewery in south Austin is receiving rave reviews for its excellent service, food, and atmosphere. The menu, which features items from South Side, has been highly praised. A frequent customer has visited the brewery at least ten times and has consistently enjoyed great beer, food, and a lively atmosphere.
The staff at this south Austin brewery are known for being helpful and friendly, contributing to a welcoming environment for patrons. This particular brewery is a standout favorite among the many options in the area. With its great beer, delicious food, and exceptional service, it's no wonder why this brewery is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
17. Vacancy Brewing
In-house canning and bottling, sustainability efforts with water conservation and solar power

The beer selection at this venue is varied and fantastic, offering a wide range of options to suit different tastes. There is a good rotation of IPAs, lagers, and the classic June, ensuring that there is always something new to try. The quality of the beer is excellent, making for a enjoyable drinking experience.
The atmosphere of the venue is friendly and welcoming, contributing to a pleasant overall vibe. While it may not be a destination worth going out of the way for, it is a solid choice if you're in the area and looking for a place to grab a drink. If someone suggests this spot while you're in the neighborhood, you wouldn't object to joining them for a drink.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
- Social Gatherings