10 Incredible Breweries in North Park, San Diego

Are you on the hunt for the next hoppy adventure in San Diego? Look no further than North Park, where you’ll find an array of incredible breweries to quench your thirst.

We know that finding the perfect brewery can be tough, especially with so many options out there.

But fear not – we’ve got you covered with our top 10 picks for the best breweries in North Park.

You’ll encounter everything from classic IPAs to unique experimental flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more. But enough chit-chat. It’s time to get down to business!

Belching Beaver North Park Beer Flight
Photo Credit: Belching Beaver North Park

1. Belching Beaver North Park Tasting Room

The Belching Beaver North Park Tasting Room is the place to be if you’re itchin’ for a cold, craft beer to tickle your taste buds.

Walking into this joint is like entering a beer lover’s paradise. It’s cozy, chill and simply oozing with that laid-back San Diego vibe.

You’ll be sipping on brews created with super special, hard-to-find hops and quality grain from across the globe.

You’ll find a delightful variety of styles to please even the pickiest of beer snobs. Try their famous Peanut Butter Milk Stout – tastes just like a peanut butter cup had a love affair with liquid gold.

Or perhaps you’re more into crisp and refreshing? Their Belching Beaver Tropical Terps is like a tropical vacation in a glass, bursting with fruity pineapple freshness.

Take a seat, kick back, and enjoy the fact that you’re smack dab in the middle of what might be the coolest tasting room in North Park.

Folks rave about not only the killer beer, but also the super friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to help you choose your perfect pint.

IPA from Thorn Brewing North Park San Diego CA
Photo Credit: Thorn Brewing North Park

2. Thorn St. Brewery

If you’re looking for a true craft beer gem in North Park, San Diego, let us introduce you to Thorn St. Brewery.

This spot has been brewing up some serious magic for the folks living the good life in SoCal.

With a chill, down-to-earth atmosphere and an array of flavorful brews, you’re bound to feel right at home.

Now let’s talk about what really matters: the beer! Thorn St. Brewery offers a variety of awesomesauce craft brews. From hoppy IPAs to smooth and malty stouts, there’s a little something for everyone. Their brews are like a symphony for your senses.

But what do the locals dig the most? Word on the street is that the Relay IPA and Barrio Lager are fan favorites, and for good reason.

If you’re feeling indecisive, why not give one (or both!) of these bad boys a whirl? Remember, life’s too short for boring beer.

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As you kick back and sip on your pint, you might find yourself craving some grub.There are usually some tasty local food trucks parked nearby to save the day.

We’re talking handcrafted artisan tacos, mouthwatering sushi, and more! Your taste buds will be doing the happy dance, for sure.

Reservations might be tricky to score since it’s pretty popular with the locals. But trust us when we say that the beer and atmosphere are worth the wait.

Second Chance Beer Company North Park San Diego
Photo Credit: Second Chance Beer Company

3. Second Chance Beer

Walk into Second Chance Beer in North Park and you’ll be instantly hit with a wave of coziness and a buzzing atmosphere. With many taps on deck, there’s a boozy concoction perfect for every palate.

Fancy an Irish-style ale? Oh, they’ve got you covered. Wanna venture into hop territory? Grab yourself an IPA or maybe even a fruited sour. The choices are endless.

When you swing open those big roll-up doors, you’ll be greeted by a mix of tables and benches, an outdoor patio, and stellar vibes.

The North Park Beer Lounge is a prime spot for beer enthusiasts, first dates, or just a chill night out with your pals. Did we mention it’s dog-friendly? Bring your fur-filled canine crew along for some fun!

We’ve heard rave reviews about their Tabula Rasa Toasted Porter, thanks to its roasty, chocolatey notes.

If you’re in the mood for something light and fruity, give the Mulligan Irish Red Ale a whirl.

As with any great brewery, Second Chance has its pros and cons. On the plus side, they’ve got an extensive beer selection, top-notch service, and a killer ambiance.

Even better, there’s usually a food truck nearby, so you can chow down on some grub while you indulge in your brews.

However, on the downside, you might need to prepare for the occasional wait time, especially during peak hours.

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Poor House Brew (@poorhousebrew)

4. Poor House Brewing Company

Poor House Brewing Company is a laid-back brewery with saloon-style doors. Once you walk in, the friendly folks are ready to serve up your favorite handcrafted ale. Now, that’s a vibe!

Located at the heart of North Park, Poor House specializes in whipping up great beer. Don’t let the simplicity fool you; their brews pack a punch.

On a hot San Diego day, there’s nothing like sipping on one of their refreshing IPAs, Imperial Stouts, Belgian Ales, or Pale Ales – they’re the toast of the town.

So what’s got everyone buzzing about this joint? North Park locals swear that Poor House’s handcrafted ale is just the thing after a gnarly day at the office.

Many patrons can’t get enough of their Maple Stout, they’re always coming back for more.

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While tipping back a pint or two, you’ll notice Poor House’s atmosphere is a blend of old-west saloon and your favorite neighborhood watering hole.

Rustic wooden accents, low lighting, and easygoing conversations bring us back to simpler times.

Depending on when you slide in, it might be a little packed, and those saloon doors could be getting more action than a line-dancing contest.

But, considering the brews are amazing and the people are chill, a little wait isn’t that bad.

Modern Times Beer
Photo Credit: Modern Times Beer

5. Modern Times Beer

Modern Times Beer is a seriously hip joint to wet your whistle. These cool cats offer an impressive array of 20 tasty taps, including creative spins on their core beers and some mysterious (yet insanely delightful) experiments.

No doubt you’ll be dazzled by the killer choices, but if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, keep calm and drink on. Locals go bonkers for their Blazing Dungeon Map IPA and their fruity-tangy Fruitlands Sour.

But it’s not just about the brews, folks. The atmosphere at the North Park Flavordome is like a rad, retro paradise. Think funky wall art and hundreds of lampshades hanging from the ceiling.

It’s like stepping into an alternate universe where delicious beer reigns supreme, and we’re here for it.

Some fellow beer lovers have said that the taproom can get a bit cozy on busy nights, but isn’t that part of the fun?

Rub elbows with friendly faces, make some new pals, and bond over your mutual adoration for all things craft beer.

Fall Brewing Company
Photo Credit: Fall Brewing Company

6. Fall Brewing Company

Fall Brewing Company is a spot that’s been kicking it since 2014, and you’re just the thirsty traveler they’ve been waiting for.

From crisp, clean lagers to lip-smacking sours and stouts, their beer menu’s got your tastebuds covered.

Not sure what to order? No worries! Customers are absolutely head over heels for their “Plenty For All” Pilsner and “Devil Cat” Double IPA.

With a cult-like following, you just know their brews pack a punch so good, you’ll wanna high-five your own hand.

The staff’s got a chill attitude, and they’re always ready to help you choose your poison.

Sometimes it can get a bit packed at Fall Brewing Company – good vibes attract the masses, after all. So if you’re looking for a secluded spot, this might not be it.

West Coast Lager by North Park Beer Co
Photo Credit: North Park Beer Co.

7. North Park Beer Co.

Step inside North Park Beer Co. and be instantly enveloped by the warmth and charm that seeps from the vintage-inspired taproom. Trust us, you’ll be coming for the brewskis but staying for the vibes.

Indulge in the finest amber nectar, from hoppy IPAs to smooth and creamy stouts. Still not sure what you’re in the mood for? Their knowledgeable bartenders got your back, always ready to help you find your beer soulmate.

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Feeling peckish? North Park Beer Co. is home to delicious eats that complement their beers perfectly.

Customers love their soft pretzels. And let’s not forget the to-die-for gourmet Grilled Cheese, the kind Grandma would make!

Rip Current Brewing in North Park
Photo Credit: Rip Current Brewing

8. Rip Current Brewing

Hold on to your beer glasses, because Rip Current Brewing is about to knock your socks off. The atmosphere here welcomes you with open arms and a pint (or two) in hand.

So, what kind of liquid gold can you expect here? You’re in for a diverse range of brews, from rich malty delights to big hoppy wonders, sweet fruity concoctions, and even some barrel-aged and sour-style specialties.

Rip Current Brewing knows how to whip up the finest craft beer that’ll put a smile on your face and have you coming back for more.

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all that goodness and don’t know where to start, don’t sweat it. For some top-notch customer favorites, try their zesty IPA or their velvety stout.

All in all, Rip Current is a solid hangout spot for chilling with friends. But do expect some wait time during peak hours. No reservations are accepted, so plan ahead accordingly.

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Blind Lady Ale House (@blindladyalehouse)

9. BLAH Brewing @ Blind Lady Ale House

BLAH Brewing at the Blind Lady Ale House is a NANO brewery that is perfect for those who appreciate some good brews and a chill atmosphere.

While it may be tiny in size, it sure packs a punch when it comes to their 1BBL test batches.

Now, don’t expect a stuffy, uptight scene here. Nope, not at all! This place stays lively and energetic while offering an impressive variety of beers.

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Curious about what’s brewing up? Stay in the loop with their Instagram account and their email list for occasional updates.

BLAH Brewing just so happens to be parked in the back of Blind Lady Ale House, a spot famous for delicious pizza.

Past visitors heartily recommend it for those seeking chill vibes, great beer, and mouthwatering pizza. How can you resist that winning combo?

Keep in mind, this isn’t a brewery for no-shows; you have to get your whole crew together and on time for the reservation.

Also, reservations are not accepted during Jazz Thursdays, so if walk-ins are more your thing, you can simply pop in and enjoy some smooth tunes with your beer.

Double IPA by Mike Hess Brewing Company North Park
Photo Credit: Mike Hess Brewing Company

10. Mike Hess Brewing

Let’s talk about the piece de resistance of North Park breweries – Mike Hess Brewing.

Not only do they offer a wide variety of tasty brews, but they’ve got a unique tasting room that you’ll definitely want to check out.

Mike Hess Brewing offers everything from style-specific ales and lagers to experimental concoctions that’ll make your taste buds go crazy.

The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere means you can kick back, enjoy your beer, and maybe even make some new pals.

People rave about their Grazias Amber Ale, Mandatory Fun Double IPA, and the Solis IPA, full of hoppy deliciousness. Like Willy Wonka’s factory, but with beer, there’s something around every corner.

Fun fact: folks who’ve been before can’t stop gushing about the sky bridge path that leads you through the main brewery.

Wait times at Mike Hess can get a bit crazy during peak hours, so you might have to wait a bit for a table.