16 Excellent Craft Breweries in San Antonio
The Best Breweries in San Antonio
2024 was a BRUTAL year for San Antonio's once booming craft beer scene. A number of super popular breweries shuttered their doors and thanks to rising costs, many others danced around bankruptcy. And this just breaks my heart! There are so many amazing breweries in San Antonio and it would be a travesty to lose any more.
I’ve personally visited all of the San Antonio breweries (my love of breweries is STRONG, y’all) to write up this guide + map of the best breweries in San Antonio. And I'm banging the craft brewery drum loudly! All of these breweries are worth a visit and not just to support their business, but because they do a fantastic job with their products.
I’ll share photos and details to help you find the perfect brewery for your mid-week wind-down or weekend adventure.
ABOUT US
We’re Kelsey and Sara, two local foodies with a combined 29 years of eating in San Antonio, two travel books, and millions of blog readers. We adore local spots, rarely visit chain restaurants, and we aren't afraid to tell you the truth. After spending thousands of our own $$$ at hundreds of local hot spots, we're sharing the best with you.
How this guide to San Antonio Breweries is written
First off, every brewery on this list is worth visiting!
Use the map (above) to find the location of the brewery.
In each paragraph, you’ll be able to read a little bit about the brewery, details like whether they offer food or not, a photo of the brewery ambiance, and any other helpful tidbits that will help you discover the San Antonio brewery scene.
Finally, there will be a beer recommendation for you to try if it’s your first time visiting that brewery.
16 Amazing Craft Breweries in San Antonio
1. Künstler Brewing
Küntsler means “artist” in German, and this brewery is truly a work of art! It’s a neighborhood craft brewery that has a fun and inviting ambiance, delicious German food, and a solid beer list of old-world styles.
They won a silver medal at the 2018 GABF for their chile beer, but if it’s your first time visiting, definitely check out some of their delicious German lagers.
FOOD?
Yes, they have a full menu of Texas-inspired German food.
AMBIANCE:
This comfortable and hospitable brewery is literally in a neighborhood! (Like, you might have to park in front of someone’s house…) There’s a big indoor space with a long tap wall, and some outdoor covered seating on the front porch and the side patio
WHAT TO TRY:
If it’s your first visit, try a flight of their German beers, like the Cashmere hefe, the Verklemmt pils, and the Narcolepsy kolsch.
WEBSITE | 302 E Lachapelle, San Antonio, TX 78204
2. Roadmap Brewing
Roadmap Brewing has earned a name for themselves in the San Antonio beer scene for providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere, delicious beers in a wide range of categories, clever names. This family-owned brewery recently won its first World Beer Cup medal for their Late Night Polka Party.
This is a family-friendly space with lots of games for all ages. Dogs are allowed (on leash). Roadmap is a BYO food place, so feel free to get your Uber Eats order delivered directly to the taproom. Or indulge in their on-site food truck.
FOOD?
Yes, Last Place Burgers food truck (and one of the best burgers in San Antonio) is on site. See the menu here.
AMBIANCE:
Industrial space that’s just a 15 minute walk from the convention center.
WHAT TO TRY:
The Mini Van Dad, a hefty double IPA that weighs in at 7.9% abv.
WEBSITE | 723 N Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78215
3. Longtab Brewing Company
This veteran-owned brewery in San Antonio honors the history and service of veterans. They brew lots of Belgians and German-style beers, and they prioritize proper glassware and proper pours. Because of that, flights aren’t available (because tiny flight glasses don’t leave enough room for the proper head on the beer). The cool thing about this? Their glassware is beautiful!
Longtab is a fully operating restaurant that serves food, veteran-owned coffee and tea, and a Sunday morning brunch . Whether you want to stop in for a big pour of Dubbel or Tripel at the bar or you want a full dinner with your fam, Longtab Brewing is a must-try brewery in San Antonio.
FOOD?
Yes, Longtab offers soups and salads, snacks like pretzels and nachos, sandwiches, and weekend entrees.
AMBIANCE:
It’s located in an industrial space and kind of feels like you’re driving to the middle of nowhere, but once you park and step inside it’s a beautiful taproom with a bar, table and high-top seating, couches, and an exposed brewery space that you can see while you drink your beer.
WHAT TO TRY:
Longtab is known for Belgians and German beers, so it’s a good idea to start with one of those. Belgian beers are typically higher alcohol (7-10%), while German beers are a bit lower (4-6%).
WEBSITE | 4700 Timco W., Suite 105, San Antonio, TX 78238
4. Gather Brewing Company
Gather is a little family-owned brewpub located just on the outskirts of San Antonio. They opened in the height of the pandemic (2021-ish) and had a few rounds of soft openings before really getting their feet on the ground. But now that they're up and rolling, Gather is just that: a gathering spot for the local community.
They focus on communal tables, menu favorites like burgers and wings, and, of course, a well-rounded menu of beer with a little bit of something for everyone.
FOOD?
Full restaurant.
AMBIANCE:
Family-friendly interior taproom with long tables, and a large outdoor patio.
WHAT TO TRY:
Their flagship Brew SA American IPA is delicious on a hot Texas day. If you're visiting in the winter and hoping for something cozy, their coffee porter is delicious.
WEBSITE | 210 E. Aviation Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148
5. Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery
For sure located at one of the most beautiful (and popular!) breweries in San Antonio, Southerleigh is a southern food restaurant located in the original Pearl Brewing building. It was built in 1894, and by 1916 Pearl Brewery was the largest brewery in Texas. Although it eventually closed in 2001, it was reopened as this beautiful new restaurant and brewery called Southerleigh.
Southerleigh, one of the best restaurants at the Pearl, is a gorgeous restaurant and brewery with tall ceilings, a chic/industrial space, and really great beer. With the leather seats, dark wood, and more upscale feel, this is a great brewery to visit when you want to pair it with a sit-down dinner.
There is also an outdoor beer garden that overlooks the heart of the Pearl where they have live music in the summertime evenings.
FOOD?
Full restaurant.
AMBIANCE:
Beautiful indoor restaurant with a luxurious feel inside the historic Pearl brewhouse in San Antonio
WHAT TO TRY:
The Southerlite is a clean, dry lager that tastes amazing on a hot San Antonio day.
WEBSITE | 136 E Grayson St., Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78215
6. Freetail Brewing Co.
Freetail is one of the OG breweries in San Antonio having opened in 2008. You’ll find Freetail beer cans in a lot of bars and stores all over SA. Since they have two locations (a taproom and a brew pub), they’re able to have a pretty large-sized distribution.
The original location is a bit smaller with an industrial feel, and the new(er) north location is more of a restaurant vibe. Both are fun places to grab a beer and some food with a friend.
FOOD?
Full restaurant.
AMBIANCE:
South location: industrial space with an indoor taproom and outdoor picnic table area. North location: more of a sports bar feel.
WHAT TO TRY:
Start with the Bat Outa Helles lager (great for SA temps), and then try some of their seasonal stuff.
WEBSITE | 4035 N. Loop 1604, #105, San Antonio, TX 78257
7. Ranger Creek Brewing and Distilling
Ranger Creek is a really fun stop on your tour of local San Antonio breweries. Why? It’s not only a craft brewery with a nice selection of brews and weekend tours available, but it’s also a whiskey distillery. Whether you’re a beer drinker, a whiskey aficionado, or you just like delicious cocktails, Ranger Creek does it all. But since this is a guide about the best craft breweries in San Antonio, you should know that Ranger Creek won a bronze medal at the 2018 GABF for their Hatch Lager.
Regarding location, you’ll feel like you’re driving to the middle of nowhere. But once you get to the taproom you’ll find a warm and welcoming experience. The bartenders are awesome, and the taproom, albeit teen tiny, has a really fun and festive atmosphere.
Pre-register for their tours if you want a behind-the-scenes peek at how they make their beer and whiskey.
FOOD?
They serve meat and cheese plates and some snacks. Rotating food trucks on site, as well.
AMBIANCE:
In an industrial park. The taproom is small and dark (perfect for whiskey).
WHAT TO TRY:
The San Antonio lager. Get the salted version if it’s on tap.
WEBSITE | 4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX 78217
8. Black Laboratory Brewing
Black Laboratory Brewing was founded by “two scientists and a dog.” Love it already? 😉 Flights come in mini science beakers to stay on brand. They have a wide variety of brews, including their flagship blonde ale, several IPAs, a stout, and a beer slushy machine for those who aren’t super into beer.
FOOD?
Yes! They recently expanded to offering a full kitchen with pizzas and sandwiches as headliners.
AMBIANCE:
A cute taproom with some indoor tables and a small patio. Located next door to The Magpie (one of the BEST restaurants in San Antonio) if you want to grab a fancier dinner.
WHAT TO TRY:
The beer slushy!
WEBSITE | 1602 E Houston St Suite 109, San Antonio, TX 78202
9. Maverick Whiskey Distillery and Brewery
Not to be confused with Maverick Brasserie, Maverick Whiskey Distillery and Brewery is a family-owned distillery and restaurant in a historic bank building located downtown.
Although it’s marketed as a whiskey distillery (and you definitely should go try a flight of their whiskey!), Maverick also makes craft beer and cheekily refer to themselves as a Brew-Stillery. They’re located in downtown San Antonio near the Alamo. It’s a really cool spot to stop in for a while, get a tour, and enjoy a drink or two.
FOOD?
No, but you are welcome to bring your own food.
AMBIANCE:
Beautiful old Texas charm with leather chairs, dark furniture, and a “whiskey” ambiance.
WHAT TO TRY:
Archie’s IPA, their American-style ale.
WEBSITE | 115 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205
10. Blue Star Brewing Co
If we’re talking about iconic San Antonio breweries, Blue Star definitely has to be a part of the conversation. This craft brewery has been around since 1996! It’s located in a really fun, visitor-friendly part of San Antonio called Southtown. They have a multi-level outdoor deck, live music on the weekends, and a full menu.
Blue Star started as a brewery in the 90s, but the name expanded to include the whole development called the Blue Star Arts Complex. After you get your beer, check out the art galleries, retail shops, restaurants, and bars.
FOOD?
Yes, full menu of classic pub food
AMBIANCE:
Large indoor space and an outdoor deck overlooking the riverwalk.
WHAT TO TRY:
It’s a BIG menu so you’ll probably want to try a flight, but the Texican lager is a good place to start, especially if you’re stopping by in the summer months.
WEBSITE | 1414 S Alamo St #105, San Antonio, TX 78210
11. Alamo Beer Co.
Alamo Beer Co. is a HUGE indoor/outdoor space with cornhole, picnic tables, lots of beer and food, and a great ambiance for weekend hangs.
The brewery has been around since 2014. The quality of beer isn’t quite up to par as some of the top options on this list, but the ambiance of the space is absolutely amazing for a Friday night out with friends.
FOOD?
Yes, a VERY small number of snacks and shareables are available at the beer hall. Not the place to come if you're looking for a full meal.
AMBIANCE:
Giant outdoor space with yard games, indoor tap room with lots of tables, HUGE parking lot.
WHAT TO TRY:
Try an amber if it’s your first time!
WEBSITE | 202 Lamar St, San Antonio, TX 78202
12. Dos Sirenos
This dog-friendly, kid-friendly brewery in San Antonio has an awesome outdoor patio, delicious food, and a nice selection of craft brews. Stop by on a Friday or Saturday night for live music, and bring the whole fam for dinner.
FOOD?
Yes, full menu.
AMBIANCE:
Large indoor tap room, large outdoor patio with twinkle lights.
WHAT TO TRY:
The hazy Zeus Juice IPA.
WEBSITE | 231 E Cevallos St, San Antonio, TX 78204
13. Back Unturned Brewing
A small yet fully-operating craft beer and kitchen just north of the riverwalk, Back Unturned is where you can get a personal pizza + personal beer for a weekday lunch stop. (The pizza is really delish, btw!)
Back Unturned is located just off of the San Antonio riverwalk, so the location really can’t be beat!
FOOD?
Yes, pizza, wings, and a dedicated weekend brunch menu.
AMBIANCE:
Small indoor taproom.
WHAT TO TRY:
A flight! The menu changes often and they offer a wide variety of beer styles.
WEBSITE | 516 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
14. Breakaway Brewing Co.
Located directly across the street from Fort Sam Houston military base, Breakaway Brewing is a new brewery in San Antonio that's already making quite a name for itself!
There's a cycling theme that runs throughout the brewery. But don't worry - it's subtle, and if you're not a huge Tour de France nerd, you'll still love this place. The main intention behind the place is for Breakaway Brewing to be "the local gathering place -- an intimate public house of yore."
Owner and head brewer Chris Pal-Freeman has a diverse and refreshing selection of drinkable Texas beers, including the number one seller, "The Texan" which is a medium-bodied Tex Mex ale that pairs perfectly with one of their big, juicy burgers.
FOOD?
A full gastropub menu + brunch on Sundays.
AMBIANCE:
A bright and open taproom with a small sidewalk patio (standing room only). Family friendly!
WHAT TO TRY:
The Oregon Common. It's Breakaway's take on a California Common.
WEBSITE | 516 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
15. Idle Beer Hall and Brewery
The newer Idle Beer Hall and Brewery is located downtown right next door to the Make Ready Market. Between Idle's fantastic craft brews and the great food at the market, guests can find a whole evening's worth of eats, drinks, and entertainment in just one location.
Idle's rotating menu includes drafts, canned beers, wines, and cocktails. There are also some zero-proof options for the tee-totalers of the group.
FOOD?
Yes, two small snacks on site or you can grab food from a counter at the adjacent Make Ready Market and make a full meal of it.
AMBIANCE:
A wide open space for resting, ski-ball machines, and a pool table. Super family and pet friendly!
WHAT TO TRY:
The El Dorado Mexican lager. Super light and very refreshing.
WEBSITE | 414 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
16. Thirsty Pups Brewery
Photo Credit: Yelp Vanessa C.
This Castle Hills neighborhood brewery is about as "neighborhood feeling" as it gets. Located in a strip mall next to an Afghan restaurant, Thirsty Pups is the kind of place you stop in for a cold drink and a friendly chat.
The brewpub itself is pretty small, but that just lends to its comfortable vibe. Be prepared to stand if all the seats are taken, or get your beer to go.
FOOD?
No, however you are welcome to have food delivered or grab it from one of the neighboring restaurants.
AMBIANCE:
Small and intimate, with a friendly, easy-going feel to it that reflects the neighborhood it is a part of.
WHAT TO TRY:
The Fancy Meeting You Beer Sour of any one of the well regarded IPAs.
WEBSITE | 2211 NW Military Hwy, Ste. #130, Castle Hills, TX 78213
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