Craft beer bars are one of the biggest trends in the drinking world. And it’s not hard to see why. The combination of tasty beer, killer grub, and a fun atmosphere is irresistible to most. And Phoenix is home to some stellar craft beer bars and breweries. From a hip downtown Scottsdale spot that serves Arizona brews and wood-fired pizzas to one of the Valley’s most recognized breweries, check out these four places where you can down all the craft beer you want.
The Whining Pig
Established in 2013, The Whining Pig has three locations in the Valley of the Sun that all together serve more than 125 craft brews. Guests praise the fun, lively atmosphere here that includes classic board games like Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots. Pair your brews with a small, crowd-friendly food menu. Customers can enjoy gourmet grilled cheeses like The Heart —fig spread, prosciutto and goat cheese— a meat and cheese plate and a peanut butter brownie for a sweet finish.
Twitter: @TheWhiningPig
Craft64
Old Town Scottsdale’s Craft64 is known for its relaxed vibe, pizzas, and dedication to local beer. The restaurant has a rotating selection of 30 Arizona craft beers on tap. To check out the current list, visit this link https://www.taphunter.com/location/craft-64/6742462556012544. And it’s worth ordering the wood-fired oven pizzas. Customers can enjoy slices of the Pepperoni topped with mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, tomato sauce, and basil or the Fico that comes with fresh mozzarella, Burrata, Parmigiano Reggiano, truffle oil, arugula and fig sauce. And Craft64 is an easy place to spend an afternoon. Sports fans can belly up to the bar to watch the game on big screens. The light-filled and modern space is perfect for a date night or evening out with friends.
Twitter: @Craft64AZ
SanTan Brewing Company
Open since 2007, SanTan Brewing Company is one of the Valley’s most well-known breweries. Located in downtown Chandler, the warm, yet industrial feeling spot is a lively spot to grab a beer and a bite. One star of the beer menu is SanTan’s refreshing Mr. Pineapple, a wheat beer with a hint of pineapple. Another crowd pleaser? The Epicenter, a beer with a light amber aftertaste. The extensive food menu features hearty pub food including sandwiches, pizza, burgers, and sandwiches.
Twitter: @SanTanBrewing
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Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company is Gilbert’s very first brewery that opened back in 2013. The brewery took off (thanks in part to being named one of the top breweries in the world on RateBeer.com) and has been serving its own craft brews in an easy going setting ever since. Creative beer options include Superstition Coffee Stout, made with “local coffee from the Superstition Coffee Co., roasted malts and oatmeal. Madagascar vanilla beans add a touch of sweetness for the perfect balance between coffee and beer” according to the menu. Like the best breweries, Arizona Wilderness’ food menu also rocks. Customers can dig into the juicy burgers like the Apple and Brie Burger, topped with honey-glazed apples, brie cheese, arugula, and thick-cut bacon.
Twitter: @AZWildernessCo
After you’ve downed some brews, consider heading to these five hiking trails in Phoenix to burn it all off.