The brewing industry has a long history in Tampa Bay, with cigar maker Vicente Ybor establishing the Florida Brewing Company at the site of an ancient spring in 1897, according to Tampa Historical. Eventually, Vicente’s brewery would go on to become Florida’s first commercial beer brewery.
And the party is still hopping. If you’re looking for a good time, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the top breweries to check out in Tampa Bay:
Cigar City Brewing
- 3924 W. Spruce St., Tampa
- This brewery’s got a rep for its hoppy, malty, and fruity brews. Their Jai Alai IPA is a straight-up Sunshine State icon, and you can’t leave without pairing it with their roasted mojo pork Cubano. Pro tip: For an extra $8 and a call ahead, you can get a behind the curtains tour of the beer-making magic.
Coppertail Brewing Co.
- 2601 E. 2nd Ave., Tampa
- These brews are sure to quench the mightiest thirst, from the flagship Unholy Belgian tripel to the Night Swim porter—themed after a dark and luxurious midnight dip in the waters off St. Pete Beach. The brewery’s tasting room has an industrial/historic vibe that’s sure to make you feel like you’re back in the 1920s. Pro tip: Take advantage of its menu too, which includes some of the best smoked chicken wings in town.
Angry Chair Brewing
- 6401 N. Florida Ave., Tampa
- We’re sitting happy at Angry Chair. Its brews are experimental, rich, and full of flavorful, like its Imperial German Chocolate Cupcake Stout. Pro tip: Try the peanut butter + marshmallow stout; it’s like a fluffernutter sandwich.
Hidden Springs Ale Works
- 1631 N. Franklin St., Tampa
- This Tampa Heights staple’s IPAs, stouts, and sours all pack a punch. You can’t go wrong with the Riot Juice — made of blackberry, lime, and a hint of vanilla.
Green Bench Brewing Co.
- 1133 Baum Ave. N., St. Petersburg
- This St. Petersburg brewery has a spacious and dog-friendly beer garden, making it the perfect spot to sip on its award-winning beers, like the red-canned Sunshine City IPA or blue-canned Skyway Hazy Double IPA. Pro tip: If you’re feeling peckish, one of our favorite hangouts, Red Mesa Mercado is next door — get the Cali burrito.
Three Daughters Brewing
- 222 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg
- This St. Petersburg brewery has a lively, colorful, and spacious taproom with infinite board games. Their Beach Blonde Ale is a crowd favorite, and you can sip it while playing checkers. And the spot frequently hosts live music events on the weekends.
With so many great breweries to choose from, you can’t go wrong. But while you’re enjoying the hoppy, malty, and flavorful brews, remember to stay safe and have a designated driver. where you are
Did we miss your favorite spot? The Tampa Bay region is home to over one hundred craft breweries, with around 50 in Pinellas + 30 in Hillsborough, according to Drink Local Florida. Let us know if we missed your pub, and it could end up in the newsletter.
