Lake Tahoe brew pubs offer a diverse and vibrant craft beer scene, featuring unique flavors, stunning mountain views, and cozy atmospheres. From South Lake Brewing Co.’s expansive taproom to Sidellis’ barrel-aged specialties, the region boasts a variety of breweries catering to all tastes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor seating, live events, and locally-inspired brews while taking in the beauty of Lake Tahoe.
What Are the Must-Visit Brew Pubs in Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe’s brew pub scene is thriving, with several standout establishments that beer enthusiasts shouldn’t miss:
- South Lake Brewing Co.
- Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery
- South of North Brewing Co.
- The Hangar – Taproom and Bottle Shop
- Cold Water Brewery & Grill
- Lake Tahoe AleWorX
- Stateline Brewery & Restaurant
Let’s dive deeper into what makes each of these brew pubs unique and worth a visit.
Where Can You Find the Best Craft Beer Selection in Lake Tahoe?
South Lake Brewing Co.
Located at 1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA, South Lake Brewing Co. is a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers. Open daily from noon to 9 pm, this brewery offers:
- Year-round beers: Pillowline (oat pale ale), Marlette Sunrise (blood-orange blonde), Angora (unfiltered IPA)
- Seasonal specialties: Kook Joose IPA and Expedition Mosaic
- Large indoor taproom and outdoor beer garden
- Behind-the-scenes brewery tours
- Special events, including anniversary celebrations with live music
Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery
Sidellis, located at 3350 Sandy Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA, is known for its unique barrel-aged offerings. Open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 7 pm, this brewery features:
- Focus on barrel-aged stouts and sours
- Signature brews: Horchata Stout and Mangoana (mango habanero white ale)
- Cozy indoor and outdoor seating with a Biergarten style atmosphere
- Small bites menu including flatbreads and sandwiches
What Unique Brewing Experiences Can You Find in Lake Tahoe?
South of North Brewing Co.
Situated on the Basecamp Hotel property at 932 Stateline Ave B, South Lake Tahoe, CA, South of North Brewing Co. offers a distinctive experience:
- Open daily from 2 pm to 10 pm
- Variety of craft beers, including West Coast IPA and hard seltzer
- Popular Blueberry Ale
- Outdoor beer garden with fire pits
The Hangar – Taproom and Bottle Shop
The Hangar, located at 2401 Lake Tahoe Blvd suite b, South Lake Tahoe, CA, is a beer lover’s paradise:
- Open daily from noon to 10 pm
- Rotating selection of 30 taps, featuring local and hard-to-find beers
- Large outdoor beer garden with games like bocce ball and cornhole
- Dog-friendly area
Where Can You Enjoy Craft Beer with a Full Dining Experience?
Cold Water Brewery & Grill
Cold Water Brewery & Grill, at 2544 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA, combines great beer with excellent food:
- Open for lunch and dinner (exact hours not specified)
- Premium handcrafted all-grain beers brewed on-site
- Seasonal farm-to-table menu
- Rustic, cozy setting with outdoor seating
- Multiple “Best of Tahoe” awards
Lake Tahoe AleWorX
With locations at 31 US-50, #105, Stateline, NV, and in Tahoe Valley, Lake Tahoe AleWorX offers a unique beer experience:
- Self-serve tap wall for a hands-on beer tasting experience
- Variety of brews including Cali Common
- Wood-fired pizzas at the Stateline location
- Outdoor patio seating at both locations
- Silent disco parties at the Stateline venue
Stateline Brewery & Restaurant
Stateline Brewery & Restaurant, located at 4118 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA, provides a full dining and brewing experience:
- Open daily (specific hours not provided)
- Rotating house creations: Pale Ale, Wit, Blonde, and IPA
- Seasonal and guest taps
- Subterranean bar and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating
- Full bar with microbrews and wines
- Event room for weddings and group gatherings
What Special Events and Activities Do Lake Tahoe Brew Pubs Offer?
Lake Tahoe brew pubs go beyond just serving great beer. Many offer special events and activities to enhance your visit:
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Live Music: South Lake Brewing Co. hosts live music events, especially during their anniversary celebration on Memorial Day weekend.
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Game Nights: Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and The Hangar offer various games, creating a fun atmosphere for happy hour or dinner.
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Outdoor Activities: The Hangar features a dog park, cornhole, bocce, and other patio games.
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Self-Serve Experience: Lake Tahoe AleWorX allows customers to pour their own pints at the self-serve tap wall.
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Silent Disco Parties: Lake Tahoe AleWorX hosts unique silent disco events at their Stateline location.
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Brewery Tours: South Lake Brewing Co. offers behind-the-scenes looks at their brewing process.
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Seasonal Beer Releases: Many breweries, including South Lake Brewing Co. and Stateline Brewery, offer special seasonal brews throughout the year.
How Do Lake Tahoe Brew Pubs Incorporate Local Flavors and Culture?
Lake Tahoe brew pubs often draw inspiration from the local environment and culture:
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Locally-Inspired Names: Many beers feature names that reference local landmarks or activities, such as South Lake Brewing Co.’s Angora IPA.
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Seasonal Ingredients: Breweries like Cold Water Brewery & Grill incorporate seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in both their beers and food menus.
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Outdoor Experiences: Most brew pubs offer outdoor seating options, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful Lake Tahoe scenery while sipping their craft beers.
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Adventure-Themed Brews: Some breweries create beers that complement the outdoor adventure culture of Lake Tahoe, perfect for après-ski or post-hike refreshment.
What Are the Best Times to Visit Lake Tahoe Brew Pubs?
While Lake Tahoe brew pubs are enjoyable year-round, certain times can enhance your experience:
- Summer Months: Ideal for enjoying outdoor seating and beer gardens.
- Fall Season: Perfect for trying seasonal autumn brews and enjoying the changing colors.
- Après-Ski Season: Many brew pubs offer a cozy atmosphere after a day on the slopes.
- Event Days: Check individual brewery schedules for special events, live music, or seasonal beer releases.
Remember to check the operating hours of each brew pub, as they may vary seasonally or by day of the week.
Lake Tahoe’s brew pub scene offers something for every beer enthusiast, from unique craft brews to stunning mountain views. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these establishments is a great way to experience the flavors and culture of the Lake Tahoe region.