Cleveland: A Craft Beer Destination
Once known as the “City of Champions” for its historic sports success, Cleveland has shifted its crown to another thriving arena—craft beer. Embracing a vibrant culture of brewing innovation, Cleveland has emerged as a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts. If you’re on a quest to discover outstanding breweries in Cleveland, Ohio, allow BreweriesNearMe.us to be your guide.
Much like the triumphant return of sports legend LeBron James, the craft beer scene in Cleveland is making waves. We’ve scoured the city to bring you the top nine breweries that define Cleveland’s craft beer character, with six additional options for those ready to embark on a short road trip.
The Best Breweries in Cleveland, Ohio
Noble Beast Brewing Co.
Located at 1470 Lakeside Ave E, Noble Beast Brewing Co. is a haven for beer aficionados. This brewpub, launched by Shaun Yasaki in 2017, serves up genius pairings of craft beer and inventive bites. Yasaki honed his skills at renowned spots like Fat Head’s Brewery, crafting a legacy of flavors that combine traditional German hops with American creative flair. Savor their Pappy’s Pilsner or Scallywag IPA, expertly paired with treats like pepperoni bread and buffalo chicken wraps.
Masthead Brewing Company
Nestled in the historical Bryant Building at 1261 Superior Ave, Masthead Brewing Company has catapulted to fame since its 2017 opening. Known for its historical roots and bold beer creations, Masthead reflects its namesake—honoring the city’s early newspaper era. With bold creations such as Ice Melter, a spicy IPA, and Duality: Citra & Zumo, they bring a piece of history to every glass.
Fat Head’s Brewery
Just outside downtown at 24581 Lorain Rd, Fat Head’s Brewery holds a legendary status among craft lovers. Known for racking up awards across the global stage, their brews have earned accolades like gold for Alpenglow German wheat ale at the 2022 Great American Beer Festival. Despite their fame, they invite patrons to “Chill Out Man, Have A Beer™”—making a visit here a must during any Cleveland brewery tour.
Great Lakes Brewing Company
Great Lakes Brewing Company, located at 2516 Market Ave, boasts a loyal following, particularly during the release of their famous Christmas Ale. Established by brothers Patrick and Daniel Conway in 1988, Great Lakes is a pioneer in Ohio’s craft scene. Throughout the year, enjoy their style-defining offerings like Dortmunder Gold® Lager or Edmund Fitzgerald Porter. It’s a staple stop for any craft beer journey in the Midwest.
Terrestrial Brewing Company
With stunning views across Lake Erie from 7524 Father Frascati, Terrestrial Brewing Company delivers small-batch creativity. Co-founders Ryan Bennett and Ralph Sgro curate an adventurous lineup of beers, from an IPA infused with unique spices to a peach Berliner weisse, making it a local favorite in the vibrant Battery Park neighborhood.
Butcher and the Brewer
Sitting at 2043 E 4th St, Butcher and the Brewer offers a nostalgic brewpub experience with their “Old-World Cuts and Hand-Built Brews” ethos. This communal haven serves classic beers alongside dishes prepared with heirloom ingredients. Highlights include Stop Hop Kaboom American IPA paired with rustic local foods like charcuterie and French onion dip.
Saucy Brew Works
Situated at 2885 Detroit Ave, Saucy Brew Works has quickly become a Cleveland icon. Brewmaster Eric Anderson and entrepreneur Brent Zimmerman have rooted themselves in the community with a lively vibe and a stellar tap list. Their Juicy ASAP is a crowd favorite, making each sip into a Cleveland landmark. Don’t miss pairing your pint with a Bees Knees pizza for a bold taste of local flair.
Collision Bend Brewing
Located at 1250 Old River Rd along the rejuvenated Flats, Collision Bend Brewing offers beers crafted with precision by Luke Purcell. With vibrant offerings like Lake Erie Sunset blood orange American wheat, this brewery embraces the local comeback energy and attracts both locals and travelers alike.
Bookhouse Brewing
Find a blend of literature and libation at 1526 W 25th St at Bookhouse Brewing. Situated in the Ohio City neighborhood, this quaint taproom provides a unique fusion with a reading room ambiance. Explore innovative yet approachable brews while enjoying a cozy, literary-inspired setting.
Willing to Travel a Little Further?
If you’re up for a mini adventure, the region surrounding Cleveland offers more craft beer gems within a few hours’ drive. Here are six standout breweries ready to extend your brewery exploration.
CLAG Brewing Company
At 218 Columbus Ave in Sandusky, just over an hour from Cleveland, CLAG Brewing Company stands out as an unassuming powerhouse. Heralded as a local favorite and beloved on Untappd, founder Kha Bui channels his roots and personal journey into crafting exceptional brews with a devoted following. Their collaborative approach with big names in brewing makes CLAG a stand-out presence.
DankHouse Brewing Company
Travel 2.5 hours to 161 Forry St in Newark to discover DankHouse Brewing Company. Once highlighted among the “12 Best New Breweries of 2018,” DankHouse charms with juicy IPAs and intensely fruited sours. Heather and Josh Lange’s passion has made them notorious in the Midwest craft beer landscape.
Ill Will Brewing
Just a 1-hour and 40-minute drive to 45417 OH-14 in Columbiana, Ill Will Brewing pushes boundaries with their unique brews. With an impressive Untappd rating and bold flavors such as Adversarial and Bananas, they redefine what it means to “brew different” right in Ohio.
Hoof Hearted Brewing
An irreverent charm awaits at Hoof Hearted Brewing, located at 300 County Rd 26 in Marengo. Known for their whimsical approach, they combine pop culture with standout Northeastern-style IPAs and creative packaging. It’s a two-hour journey filled with flavorful surprises.
Jackie O’s Brewery
Head 2 hours and 15 minutes to 171 N 4th St in Columbus to experience Jackie O’s Brewery. Synonymous with quality, their expertly crafted barleywines and farmhouse ales have captured the hearts of beer lovers nationwide, even as “hype” circles elsewhere.
Crooked Pecker Brewing Co.
Find Crooked Pecker Brewing Co. just 40 minutes away at 8284 E Washington St in Chagrin Falls. This family-run establishment masters everything from lager to hazy IPAs, earning them high regard as one of Ohio’s top-rated breweries. Their inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for an easy Cleveland getaway.
Engage with these exceptional breweries, celebrate Cleveland’s beer culture, and let BreweriesNearMe.us be your guide on this flavorful expedition through Ohio’s thriving craft beer community.
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