Davis Craft Brewery Guide

Davis, California, is a vibrant city known for its bike-friendly culture, beautiful parks, and a thriving craft beer scene. If you're a beer enthusiast or simply looking to explore local flavors, Davis has four outstanding craft breweries that are worth a visit. Each brewery offers a unique selection of handcrafted beers, welcoming atmospheres, and a glimpse into the local beer culture. Here's an in-depth guide to help you make the most of your brewery-hopping experience in Davis.

*These are not rankings! Listed in alphabetized order.

1. Dunloe Brewing: With two locations both nestled in the vibrant city of Davis, Dunloe Brewery stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and community spirit. This local gem is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and those seeking an exceptional brewing experience in a warm and inviting setting.
   
   As you step into Dunloe Brewery, you'll be greeted by a cozy and intimate taproom that exudes a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. The rustic charm of the space invites you to sit back, relax, and savor the carefully crafted beers on offer. The brewery's commitment to creating a welcoming environment ensures that patrons feel like part of the Dunloe family from the moment they walk through the door.
   
   Dunloe Brewery takes pride in their dedication to traditional brewing methods combined with a creative twist. Their beers are meticulously crafted, paying homage to classic styles while embracing experimentation and innovation. From hop-forward IPAs that burst with tropical and citrus flavors to smooth and malty brown ales and rich stouts, Dunloe Brewery offers a diverse range of flavors to cater to every taste preference.
   
   The knowledgeable and passionate staff at Dunloe Brewery are always eager to share their expertise and guide visitors through their beer selection. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or a newcomer to the craft beer scene, the staff's friendly demeanor and willingness to answer questions create an inclusive and engaging atmosphere.
   
   In addition to their commitment to brewing excellence, Dunloe Brewery actively supports the local community. They frequently collaborate with nearby businesses and artists, showcasing their commitment to fostering connections and promoting the local arts scene. From art displays to live music events, Dunloe Brewery goes beyond brewing exceptional beers to create a space that celebrates creativity and community engagement.
   
   While food is not served directly at the brewery, patrons are welcome to bring their own snacks or order from nearby eateries. This flexibility allows visitors to tailor their own food and beer pairing experiences, ensuring a personalized and satisfying visit.
   
   Whether you're seeking a place to relax with friends, engage in conversation with fellow beer lovers, or simply enjoy a finely crafted pint, Dunloe Brewery offers a delightful experience. With its dedication to quality, commitment to community, and welcoming atmosphere, a visit to Dunloe Brewery is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavors and camaraderie of Davis' craft beer culture.
   • Food Options? - Allows outside food
   • Specialty Beer? - One Big Barbecue, a grilled peach sour
   • Best IPA? - Sunshine Highway
   • Other Fun Facts - "I grew up in Davis, went to beer school here while working at Sudwerk. We just like making beer and giving people a space to enjoy it. Watching people become friends over a pint is why I do what I do. And why the spaces are built the way they are."
     -Brennan

   

1. Super Owl Brewing: A hidden gem in West Davis, Super Owl Brewing is a small family-owned microbrewery with a big personality. Step into their cozy taproom and feel the warm and inviting ambiance. The brewery focuses on brewing high-quality ales, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Super Owl is known for their hop-forward West Coast IPAs and flavorful pale ales. Their knowledgeable staff will gladly provide recommendations and insights into their brewing process. If available, try their seasonal and limited-edition releases, which showcase the brewer's creativity and passion for pushing the boundaries of flavor.
   
   The taproom at Super Owl Brewing exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a pint. The space is adorned with rustic décor, creating a comfortable and inviting setting where beer enthusiasts can gather, socialize, and engage in conversation. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are passionate about their craft and eager to share their love for beer with visitors.
   
   Super Owl is committed to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, resulting in beers that showcase the flavors of the region. Their beer selection boasts a diverse range of styles, providing something to satisfy every palate. From hop-forward West Coast IPAs bursting with citrus and pine aromas to well-balanced pale ales and amber ales, each brew is crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
   
   One of the highlights of visiting Super Owl is the opportunity to try their seasonal and limited-edition releases. These special brews often incorporate unique ingredients or experimental brewing techniques, allowing beer enthusiasts to embark on a flavor journey and discover new taste sensations. This commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of flavor sets Super Owl apart from larger breweries.
   
   Engaging with the knowledgeable staff at Super Owl is highly encouraged. They are more than happy to guide you through their beer offerings, offering recommendations based on your preferences and providing insights into the brewing process. This personal touch adds to the overall experience and creates a sense of connection between the brewers and visitors.
   
   While Super Owl focuses primarily on their outstanding beers, they partner with local food vendors and allow patrons to bring their own food. This gives visitors the flexibility to pair their favorite brews with delicious bites, further enhancing the enjoyment of their visit.
   
   Whether you're a dedicated beer aficionado or simply curious about the craft beer scene, a visit to Super Owl Brewing promises a memorable experience. The combination of their passion for brewing, warm and inviting atmosphere, and commitment to quality ensures that each visit will be a delightful exploration of unique and flavorful beers.
   • Food Options? - Allows outside food
   • Specialty Beer? - Bicycle Rights!
   • Best IPA? - Mr. J IPA
   • Other Fun Facts - Named after a typo in a text message coordinating a party for the Super Bowl, minus the "B"

   

2. Sudwerk Brewing Co.: Located in the heart of Davis, Sudwerk Brewing Co. is a beloved institution in the region, deeply rooted in the city's brewing history. Known for their German-style lagers and ales, Sudwerk offers a range of meticulously brewed beers. Take a guided tour to learn about their traditional brewing techniques and the brewery's rich heritage. Their spacious patio is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a pint while listening to live music or relaxing by the new fire pits, especially during perfect California evenings. Also, the new overhead misters on the patio make for a great addition to combat the heat during the summer. Don't miss their award-winning pilsner, their classic lagers, or their various other fantastic drafts.
   
   As you step into Sudwerk's spacious and welcoming taproom, you'll be greeted by a cozy and rustic atmosphere. The brewery's décor pays homage to its German brewing traditions, with wooden accents, communal tables, and an inviting bar and patio where you can relax and enjoy your drinks.
   
   Sudwerk takes pride in its adherence to traditional brewing techniques, showcasing the artistry and precision required to create world-class lagers. A guided tour of the brewery provides a fascinating insight into their brewing process, from the selection of premium malt and hops to the careful fermentation and conditioning stages. The knowledgeable staff will explain the significance of each step and answer any questions you may have, making the tour both educational and engaging.
   
   When it comes to beer selection, Sudwerk offers a diverse range of styles to cater to different preferences. Their Märzen, a traditional Oktoberfest lager, is a standout, featuring a rich malt profile and a smooth, clean finish. The Hefeweizen, with its distinct notes, is a refreshing choice for those seeking a wheat beer with a hint of spice. Sudwerk's other offerings include hop-forward IPAs, the crisp award-winning People's Pilsner (our personal favorite), and other unique beer styles, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. Sudwerk also features a full bar, including both local wines and a variety of both classic and specialty cocktails so there is something for everyone!
   • Food Options? - Restaurant inside
   • Specialty Beer? - Funhouse Sour Series (rotating with the season)
   • Best IPA? - Regrowth West Coast IPA/UC Davis Gunrock Hazy
   • Other Fun Facts - The restaurant features open fermentation vessels for customers to watch beer ferment in real-time. They are nicknamed “bathtubs” because back in the 1990’s a UCD student decided to jump in one of the vessels for a swim on $ 1-pint night (there’s been a lock on the door ever since).

   

3. Three Mile Brewing Co.: Tucked away in a charming industrial area, Three Mile Brewing Co. offers a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. The brewery prides itself on their rotating selection of small-batch beers, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to try. Engage in conversation with their friendly staff, who are passionate about their craft and happy to guide you through their diverse beer offerings. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and experimental brews, Three Mile Brewing Co. showcases the creativity and innovation of the local brewing scene. Grab a board game, sit back, and enjoy a flight of their unique beers.
   
   Upon entering Three Mile Brewing Co., you'll be struck by the cozy ambiance and the friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through their ever-changing lineup of beers. What sets Three Mile apart is their dedication to small-batch brewing, ensuring that each beer is meticulously crafted with attention to detail. Their rotating selection of brews means there's always something new and exciting to try, making every visit a unique experience.
   
   The brewery's commitment to experimentation and creativity shines through in their diverse beer offerings. Hop lovers will appreciate their IPAs, which range from citrusy and tropical to bold and resinous, showcasing different hop varieties and flavor profiles. If you prefer malt-forward beers, their selection of stouts and porters offers a range of rich, roasted flavors with hints of chocolate and coffee. Additionally, Three Mile often ventures into the realm of barrel-aged and sour beers, providing an opportunity to taste unique and limited-edition brews that push the boundaries of flavor.
   
   The taproom at Three Mile Brewing Co. invites guests to relax and socialize, with communal tables and an inviting, communal atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to gather with friends, engage in friendly conversation, and even enjoy a board game or two. The brewery regularly hosts events such as trivia nights and live music, adding to the lively and inclusive atmosphere.
   
   To complement their outstanding beers, Three Mile often collaborates with local food vendors, offering a variety of delectable options to satisfy your hunger. From locally found gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to mouthwatering tacos or artisanal pizza, you'll find a range of tasty bites to pair with your brews.
   
   Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of craft beer, Three Mile Brewing Co. provides a relaxed and approachable setting to discover and appreciate the art of small-batch brewing. The combination of their dedication to quality, friendly staff, and ever-evolving selection of flavorful beers ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.
   • Food Options? - Allows outside food
   • Specialty Beer? - Honey Blonde Ales made with honey varieties from around the world as well as occasional seasonal versions infused with Hibiscus or Lavender. 
   • Best IPA? - Favorites include the Downtown Tom IPA, #6 IPA, and the Ability Modifier Hazy Grapefruit IPA
   • Other Fun Facts - Named "Three Mile" because the sale of alcohol was banned within three miles of campus in 1911.

     

Map of the breweries: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1vxnZ4C4akvzuOtcwQCSr00vVhDyLpCY&usp=sharing

Before you go:

• Check the breweries' websites or social media pages for their operating hours, special events, and any additional details.
• Consider using alternative transportation options, such as biking or ride-sharing, to fully enjoy the craft beer offerings without worrying about driving.
• Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with fellow beer enthusiasts and the brewery staff. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations, and local tips.

Remember to drink responsibly and savor the flavors of Davis' craft beer scene. Cheers to a delightful brewery-hopping experience in Davis, California!