A Look at The Best Craft Beer in Houston
Posted: June 15 2024
Photo by Josh Olalde.
Welcome to the world of craft beer in Houston! If you're a beer enthusiast or just curious about trying something new, you're in the right place. Houston has a vibrant craft beer scene with many breweries and taprooms offering unique and delicious brews. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places to enjoy craft beer in Houston, with a special focus on Craft 96.
What is Craft Beer?
Before we dive into the best spots, let's understand what craft beer is. Craft beer is made by small, independent breweries that focus on quality, flavor, and traditional brewing methods. These breweries often experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create unique and interesting beers.
Why Houston?
Houston is an ideal place for craft beer lovers because of its diverse culture and innovative spirit. The city's breweries reflect this diversity, offering a wide range of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and everything in between.
Craft 96: A Must-Visit Spot
When it comes to craft beer in Houston, Craft 96 is at the top of the list. With two locations in League City and Mont Belvieu, Craft 96 offers an impressive selection of craft beers, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
League City Location
- Address: 2575 E League City Pkwy, League City, TX 77573
- Phone: (281) 549-6095
Mont Belvieu Location
- Address: 9209 Eagle Drive, Mont Belvieu, TX 77523
- Phone: (832) 307-7542
What Makes Craft 96 Special?
Craft 96 stands out for several reasons:
- Extensive Beer Selection: With over 50 rotating taps, you're sure to find something you love. They feature local Texas brews as well as popular craft beers from around the country.
- Delicious Food: Pair your beer with tasty dishes from their kitchen. The menu includes everything from burgers and wings to salads and desserts.
- Friendly Atmosphere: The staff at Craft 96 are passionate about beer and are always ready to help you find your new favorite brew. The cozy, laid-back setting makes it a great place to relax with friends or family.
Other Top Craft Beer Spots in Houston
While Craft 96 is a standout, Houston has many other excellent places to enjoy craft beer. Here are a few more you should check out:
Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Saint Arnold is Texas' oldest craft brewery, and it's a must-visit for any beer lover. Located in downtown Houston, Saint Arnold offers a wide range of beers, from their flagship Amber Ale to seasonal favorites like Pumpkinator. The brewery also has a fantastic beer garden and restaurant where you can enjoy your brew with some tasty food.
Karbach Brewing Co.
Karbach Brewing Co. is another local favorite, known for its fun atmosphere and creative beers. Their Love Street Kolsch and Hopadillo IPA are popular choices, but don't miss out on their seasonal and limited-edition brews. The brewery also hosts events like live music and trivia nights, making it a great place to hang out.
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co.
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co. is known for its innovative and experimental beers. Their lineup includes unique options like the Maple Chili Jam and the Gingerbread Stout. The brewery's three-story taproom offers stunning views of the Houston skyline, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a drink.
Eureka Heights Brew Co.
Eureka Heights Brew Co. is a fun and quirky brewery with a focus on approachable and easy-drinking beers. Their Buckle Bunny Cream Ale and Moo Caliente Milk Stout are crowd favorites. The brewery also has a laid-back taproom with games and plenty of seating.
8th Wonder Brewery
Named after the Houston Astrodome, 8th Wonder Brewery celebrates Houston's history and culture with its beers. Their Dome Faux'm Cream Ale and Hopston IPA are excellent choices. The brewery's outdoor beer garden, known as WonderWorld, is a great place to relax and enjoy some live music or food from local food trucks.
Tips for Enjoying Craft Beer
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your craft beer experience:
- Start with a Flight: Many breweries offer beer flights, which are small samples of several different beers. This is a great way to try a variety of brews and find your favorites.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don't be shy about asking the staff for recommendations. They know their beers and can help you find something you'll love.
- Take Your Time: Craft beers are meant to be savored. Take your time to enjoy the flavors and aromas of each beer.
- Explore Different Styles: Don't be afraid to try something new. With so many different styles of craft beer, there's always something new to discover.
Conclusion
Houston's craft beer scene is thriving, and there's no shortage of great places to enjoy a delicious brew. Whether you're visiting Craft 96 for the Best craft beer in Houston or exploring other local favorites like Saint Arnold, Karbach, Buffalo Bayou, Eureka Heights, or 8th Wonder, you're sure to find something you love.
So grab some friends, head out to one of these fantastic spots, and raise a glass to Houston's incredible craft beer community. Cheers!
So grab some friends, head out to one of these fantastic spots, and raise a glass to Houston's incredible craft beer community. Cheers!