Ask Paso Robles winemakers what they drink on their off hours, and you might receive a surprising answer: craft beer. In Paso Robles Wine Country, craft brews aren’t just a refreshing treat after a job well done—they’re made with passion and precision.
From crisp, clean lagers to hearty, hop-forward IPAs, Paso Robles craft beer has made a big splash on the California beverage scene. You don’t have to be a local to enjoy a Paso-crafted pint, either. Head to Paso Robles Wine Country to discover a world of exciting craft beer tasting rooms. Enjoy fresh-from-the-keg flavor, year round events, live music and food trucks presented by the top Paso Robles breweries. If this sounds like your kind of fun, hop on! We’ve rounded up the best craft beer breweries and taprooms in Paso Robles. Crack open a cold one and enjoy the ride!
History of California craft beer
It’s no secret that California is famous for craft beer. With hundreds of breweries spread out between major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and Sacramento, California craft brewers have been making distinctive brews since the 1980s. While California craft beer names like Sierra Nevada and Stone Brewing are recognizable the world over, Central Coast breweries have also gained recognition on the national craft beer stage. Since 1996, Paso’s own Firestone Walker Brewing Company has brought innovation and prestige to the area. Since then, Paso Robles-based Barrelhouse Brewing Co., San Luis Obispo-based Central Coast Brewing Company and dozens more have contributed their own unique Central Coast brewing style to California’s ever-changing craft beer landscape.
What makes Paso Robles craft beer different?
Paso Robles craft beer brewers dare to brew differently. Like Paso Robles wine, craft beer is made with a pioneering spirit and a keen focus on quality over quantity. While you’ll still find traditional ingredients like hops and malted barley in Paso Robles craft beer, your pint might also contain non-traditional elements like wine grapes, fruits, herbs and wild yeast—all of which add to a distinct regional appeal. In Paso Robles, you’ll also find unique twists on hard seltzer, beer-wine hybrids and exciting collaborations that bend the rules. Intensely involved in the brewing process from start to finish, Paso Robles breweries are always looking to create new dimensions of refreshment.
What’s the most famous Paso Robles Craft beer?
While Paso Robles has produced many great craft beers, the undisputed granddaddy comes courtesy of Firestone Walker Brewing Company, operating in Paso Robles since 2001. Double Barrel Ale—also known as DBA—was the first beer created by brewery founders Adam Firestone and David Walker. To say that DBA became a brewing sensation is an understatement: it is enjoyed worldwide and universally regarded as an iconic California craft beer. A lasting tribute to traditional cask-fermented English ales, this exceptional Paso Robles beer is malty and smooth with signature ribbons of caramel, English coffee and toasted oak throughout.
How big is the craft beer scene in Paso Robles?
From microbreweries producing a handful of barrels per year to larger operations with extensive distribution, visitors can expect to find a range of unique craft breweries to explore.
With a dozen craft breweries operating in Paso Robles, you can easily plan an entire trip around craft beer tasting around the region. From microbreweries producing a handful of barrels per year to larger operations with extensive distribution, visitors can expect to find a range of unique craft breweries to explore. There’s no denying that craft beer is an integral part of Paso Robles’ diverse food and wine scene, diversifying beverage options for visitors and offering a refreshing alternative to celebrated local wine offerings. With an emphasis on creativity and quality ingredients, the Paso Robles craft beer community continues to grow.
Can I take Paso craft beer to-go?
You can absolutely take Paso craft beer to go. Find Paso Robles’ unique craft beer offerings in bottles, cans, crowlers, growlers and kegs. Just ask the individual brewery or taproom staff for more information. Depending on the tasting room, you may find seasonal selections, brewery merchandise, glassware and limited edition releases only found in Paso Robles. That said, be sure to enjoy Paso Robles craft beer while it’s still fresh —that’s up to 30 days for an unopened aluminum crowler and approximately three days for an unopened glass crowler. See our handy Paso Robles Craft Beer FAQ for more frequently asked questions.
Tasting Map of Craft Beer in Paso Robles
Brewed off the beaten path
Silva Brewing
525 Pine Street, Suite B, Paso Robles
https://www.silvabrewing.com/
Toast to a hidden gem: You may have a little trouble finding Silva Brewing upon your first visit, but that’s the point. Founded by legendary brewer Chuck Silva, previously of celebrated San Diego brewery Green Flash Brewing in San Diego, this Paso Robles microbrewery is all about offering small-yet-mighty discoveries. Tucked inside a nondescript alley behind The Pour House in downtown Paso Robles, find Silva Brewing’s cozy industrial-chic beer tasting room. Run by Chuck and his wife MJ (often found chatting behind the bar) you’ll sip some of Paso’s most distinctive craft beer offerings. Among them, the popular Silva Brewing Co. Paso Pale American-style Pale Ale and 525 Pine American-style Golden IPA, named after the tap room’s unique location.
While the Silva Brewing Company’s output remains fiercely small batch, you’ll find approximately 20 beers on tap at any given time, including Silva Brewing Company Hop Maniac, a classic West Coast style IPA with zesty, herbaceous qualities. Depending on the season, you might find smooth-drinking German-style kolsch, altbier, cozy espresso stout or even a sophisticated beer-wine hybrid. In fact, Silva Brewing turned heads after releasing an effervescent pink-hued sparkling rose sour beer made with grenache and cinsault wine grapes and aged in French oak white wine barrels. What will Chuck and Co. brew next? Only one way to find out.
Noteworthy nearby:
The Amtrak station is just a few blocks from Silva Brewing, providing a hearty welcome for weary train travelers. Plan to arrive in Paso Robles by rail and find a world of craft beer in a walkable downtown area.
Kilokilo Brewing Company
3340 Ramada Dr, Suite C, Paso Robles
https://www.kilokilobrewing.com/
Sip on island time: Hawaiians can teach us all a little bit about enjoying the good life. At Kilokilo Brewing Company in Paso Robles, discover the perfect combination of relaxation and fermentation, aloha style. Find everything from craft beer, fruity tiki cocktails, live music and even Hawaiian barbecue at this surprising Paso Robles brewery and tasting room. As you might have guessed, come prepared for adventurous beers packed with personality—no boring basics here, that’s for sure.
Savor a “creamy” twist on a traditional California staple with Kilokilo’s Milk Shaka Tangerine IPA, crafted with Citra, Mosaic and Simcoe hops and tinged with vanilla goodness. If a “beer creamsicle ” isn’t your ideal flavor match, no worries: there’s plenty of fresh libations on rotation, from fruit-forward hard seltzers to spicy margaritas and even Dole Whip Jello shots, depending on availability. Seasonal woodfired pizza is a fabulous accompaniment to Kilokilo’s brews, and with crafty names like Doobies and Breakfast Burritos Pale Ale and Kummonuwannaleime West Coast IPA, there’s a lot to smile about. Hey—if you’re not having fun yet, you probably haven’t hung out at Kilokilo long enough.
Noteworthy nearby:
Kilokilo shares a building with several worthy beverage tasting rooms, including Seven Oxen Estate Wines—known for luscious, sustainably-grown red wines—and Calwise Spirits Co., which infuses Central Coast herbs and botanicals into each bottle of locally-crafted Big Sur gin.
Beer gardens galore
BarrelHouse Brewing Co.
3055 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446
https://barrelhousebrewing.com/
With a grassy beer garden and festival-worthy stage, BarrelHouse Brewing Co. is akin to an amusement park for adults. While the lush grounds are truly impressive, the beers are just as inspiring. Located in the hip industrial area of Tin City in Paso Robles, find perennial favorites like BarrelHouse’s Standard Ale (an upgraded take on light beer) as well as the popular Sunny Daze Citrus Blonde Ale, a great go-to for warmer summer weather. A slew of celebrated IPAs are also available year round, including Hazed and Confused Hazy IPA, BarrelHouse Juicy IPA, Barrelhouse Mango IPA, Barrelhouse West Coast IPA and Big Sur Double IPA. For those who harbor a sweeter tooth: BarrelHouse Oatmeal Stout is a delicious mainstay, offering hints of chocolate and coffee goodness.
Looking for more off-the-wall brews? Find dozens of rotating specialty beers on tap at BarrelHouse, often named with a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor. Plenty of indoor-outdoor tasting areas allow for maximum hang time here, so prepare to linger or even catch some live entertainment. Folks are invited to spread out, bring a picnic or grab some grub from an onsite food truck, depending on the season. You’ll also want to check out BarrelHouse’s swanky speakeasy in downtown San Luis Obispo, home to several taps, live entertainment, trivia nights and more. The Hangar by BarrelHouse, a historic, 100,000-square-foot airplane hangar in Paso Robles, is currently under construction and is sure to provide even more craft beer buzz.
Noteworthy nearby:
Tin City is a mecca for thirsty craft beverage seekers in the know. Be sure to stop by the Tin City Cider Company taproom, a stone’s throw from BarrelHouse Brewing Company’s legendary beer garden. Here, crisp, sophisticated hard cider comes by the tasting, pint, bottle or can.
The Backyard on Thirteenth
1300 Railroad Street, Paso Robles, CA
https://www.thebackyardpaso.com/
Think outside the walls: What would the world look like if we all shared one backyard together? The Backyard on Thirteenth answers that question with flying colors. This friendly downtown Paso Robles beer and wine garden unites all walks of life under the banner of cold craft brews and camaraderie. Traditional German biergarten tables, misters, heaters, shaded lounge areas and a rooftop bar come together to provide a modern outdoor meeting place unlike any other in Paso Robles.
Find more than 20 craft beers on draft, including hard ciders, hard kombucha and premium local and regional wines. The brews on tap span Paso Robles and beyond, featuring everything from San Luis Obispo-based Liquid Gravity Brewing Company to San Diego’s Ballast Point Brewing Company and Russian River Brewing Company in northern California. A full lunch and dinner menu is available at the onsite restaurant and customers can order from a handy walk-up window. Needless to say, children and family dogs are all welcome at this spacious outdoor hangout. Think of The Backyard a little like a community block party, open seven days a week. Everyone’s invited, naturally.
Noteworthy and nearby:
A beer tasting trip in Paso Robles is incomplete without a visit to Pine Street Saloon, one of Paso Robles’ oldest and most unique false-front buildings. Known for live music, pool tables and an authentic feel, you’ll get a true taste of Paso Robles from the comfort of your barstool.
Taps on taps
Blast & Brew Paso Robles
803 13th St, Paso Robles, CA
https://blastandbrew.com/paso-robles/
Pour for yourself: Thanks to Blast & Brew’s nifty self-pour tap system, you can now choose your own Paso Robles craft beer adventure. Sample from 26+ offerings, including craft beers, wines and ciders sourced from local and regional breweries like Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Modern Times and Drakes Brewing Co. If you’ve yet to experience this innovative, self-pour tap technology, prepare to be wowed: Long gone are the days of waiting on a busy bartender or waiter to take your order. Control your pour, taste what you want and fill up only on the drafts you really love.
A great way to taste the Paso Robles craft beer scene from one spot, you’ll also find lots of grub to dig into. Order artisan pizza, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta bowls and desserts or go for a shared “tappetizer” to enjoy with your crew. Whether you gather around caritas fries drizzled in beer cheese or build your own specialty pizza, there’s no better place to plan out your entire Paso Robles beer tasting adventure. When the pour is yours, it’s easier than ever to find exactly which breweries should be next on your list. No need to leave your table—unless, of course, you’re getting up to try more beer.
Noteworthy nearby:
Blast & Brew Paso Robles is located just a short stroll from Paso Robles’ charming Downtown City Park. Check out the historic Carnegie Library and watch as the old fashioned street lamps illuminate friendly streets. From here, dine, shop, wine taste or catch a movie.
Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
1400 Ramada Dr, Paso Robles, CA 93446
https://www.firestonebeer.com/
Where it all got brewing: A heavyweight on the California craft beer scene, Firestone Walker Brewing Company is a must-visit destination encompassing the past, present and future of California craft beer. Proudly brewed in Paso Robles for more than two decades, a lot has changed since historic Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Double Barrel Ale debuted on the craft beer scene in 1996. California’s second largest craft brewery is still family-owned and operated, delivering the warm hospitality Paso Robles has become known for. The brewery operation may have expanded to Buellton as well as Venice Beach, but the Paso Robles taproom still stands as the proud flagship location.
At this dynamic Paso Robles beer tasting room, visitors can taste an array of taps, including exclusives found only in Paso Robles. Try the famed DBA alongside modern best sellers like Firestone Walker Brewing Co. 805 Blonde Ale and Mind Haze IPA, light bodied with a hoppy, tropical fruit wave. Book an eye-opening tour of the brewing facility, check out the gift shop or grab a bite to eat at the onsite Firestone Taproom Restaurant. Prepare to come hungry and leave happy. Here, American food favorites are elevated to beer-centric pairings. There’s always room for a beer flight, right?
Noteworthy nearby:
The diverse wine trail of Highway 46 West is easily accessible from Firestone Walker Brewing Company in Paso Robles. Hop on this scenic route and find a range of incredible Paso Robles wine tasting rooms, including Donati Family Vineyard, Lone Madrone and more.
Craft Beer hangouts in Paso Robles
The Pour House
525 Pine Street, Paso Robles, CA
https://www.pasoroblesbeer.com/
Where the locals go: Make “pour decisions” a good thing when you head to The Pour House, a Paso Robles favorite. This tried-and-true local taproom has been serving up Central Coast craft brews for years, encouraging residents and visitors to bond over their favorite brews. The taps here are always changing, but you’re sure to find plenty of local Paso Robles craft breweries on the roster, including Central Coast Brewing, SLO Brewing Co, BarrelHouse Brewing Co, Firestone Walker Brewing Co. and more. At this beloved watering hole, a cold one often comes with a side of fabulous entertainment, too. Find events hosted most days of the week, including live music performances, stand-up comedy shows and movie nights screening everything from Fast Times at Ridgemont High to underground cult classics. Concerts are always a surprising mix: funk, country, rock—it all fits in here, much like the clientele.
Noteworthy nearby:
Derby Wine Estates is located nearby and offers tours daily. Housed in the iconic Almond Grower’s building, experience a piece of Paso Robles history alongside your wine tasting.
California Coast Beer Co.
1346 Railroad St. Paso Robles, CA
https://www.calcoastbeer.com/
Taste the possibilities: At California Coast Beer Company, chill vibes flow fresh from the tap. In fact, “Life is good out here” is the mantra at this downtown Paso Robles body shop-turned brewery. Brewing equipment may have replaced broken cars and repair tools, but you’ll find remnants of the building’s rich automotive past on display alongside recycled local materials. California history is everywhere: just check out the deck area, crafted from reclaimed Pismo Beach Pier planks.
Serving up a range of quality house-made beers—including several lagers, IPAs and a popular Railroad Red—this Paso Robles craft beer hangout was made for lazy afternoons and laid back group celebrations. Pair your good time with great food courtesy of the onsite Ranch Hand Kitchen and kick back on multiple patios, where kids and four legged friends are always welcome. That said, you need not be a local to feel at home here: Grab brews to-go or join the beer club for merch, discounts and lively pick-up parties. With live music every weekend and various events all year, this casual Paso Robles craft brewery is a happy place to spin your wheels.
Noteworthy nearby:
In downtown Paso Robles, find quaint antique stores amid wine tasting rooms and boutique shops. Check out nearby Reminisce Antiques, encompassing an array of distinctive vintage treasures.
More craft breweries near Paso Robles
Central Coast Brewing Co.
With two legendary locations in San Luis Obispo, CCB (as the locals call it) is one of the premier brewing facilities on California’s Central Coast. Gather around the fire pit or the bar and sample a variety of hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind ales and lagers.
Must taste: Lucky Day West Coast IPA
The Rock at SLO Brewing Co.
With a vast beer garden and renowned event space, The Rock at SLO Brewing Company hits hard with flavor and entertainment. The brewery encompasses a 30-barrel brewhouse, canning line and tasting room. An onsite restaurant rounds out this San Luis Obispo craft beer destination.
Must taste: A-SLO-Ha Double Hazy IPA
Humdinger Brewing Co in Arroyo Grande
Located in the charming village of Arroyo Grande, Humdinger brewing Company
offers up independent-minded small batch brews alongside enticing, creative eats. You’ll also find local bands depending on the season, so check the calendar for community goodness.
Must taste: SLO Pour German-style Pilsner
Wild Fields Brewhouse
A family friendly Atascadero brewpub, Wild Fields Brewhouse serves high quality brews and pub grub fare. Housed in an old bowling alley, find an arcade for all with mini-bowling lanes, foosball table, classic video games and more.
Must taste: Atascadero Beach Mexican-style Lager
Tent City Brewing Co.
A lively brewery in the heart of Atascadero, find food trucks, live music and a range of house made craft beers and unique hard seltzers on tap.
Must taste: Intensity Imperial Red Ale
Craft beer cheat sheet
- Pale Ale: A hoppy and often slightly fruity beer with a balanced malt profile. Variations include American Pale Ale (APA) and English Pale Ale.
- India Pale Ale (IPA): Known for its strong hop bitterness, IPAs can have various substyles, such as American IPA, Double IPA (DIPA), New England IPA (NEIPA), and Session IPA.
- Stout: A dark, rich beer with roasted malt flavors and sometimes notes of chocolate and coffee. Varieties include Dry Stout, Sweet Stout, Imperial Stout, and Oatmeal Stout.
- Porter: Similar to stout but usually lighter in body, with flavors of roasted malt, caramel, and sometimes chocolate.
- Wheat Beer: Brewed with a significant proportion of wheat, resulting in a lighter and often cloudy beer. Varieties include Hefeweizen, Witbier, and American Wheat Beer.
- Sour Ale: Brewed intentionally to have a sour or tart taste, often through the use of wild yeast or bacteria. Varieties include Berliner Weisse, Gose, and American Wild Ale.
- Belgian Ale: A diverse category that includes styles like Belgian Dubbel, Belgian Tripel, and Belgian Strong Ale. They often have complex yeast flavors and higher alcohol content.
- Saison: A farmhouse ale with a balance of fruity and spicy flavors, originally brewed in Belgium.
- Pilsner: A pale, golden lager with a crisp and refreshing taste. Varieties include German Pilsner and Czech Pilsner.
- Amber/Red Ale: A malty beer with a balance of hop bitterness and caramel-like sweetness.
- Brown Ale: A darker, malt-forward beer with flavors ranging from nutty to caramel.
- Lambic: A type of sour ale from Belgium, often aged in barrels and sometimes blended with fruits.
- Kölsch: A pale, crisp ale from Cologne, Germany, with a balanced profile between malt and hops.
- Cream Ale: A light and slightly sweet ale with a smooth finish.
FAQs
Q: How many craft breweries are there in Paso Robles?
A: There are currently 12 craft breweries in Paso Robles, California.
Q: When is the best time to visit Paso Robles for brewery tours?
A: The region experiences a Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round. However, the spring and fall months (April to June and September to October) are often considered ideal for touring craft breweries due to the mild weather.
Q: Do I need to make reservations for brewery tours?
A: While some breweries offer walk-in tours, it’s recommended to check ahead and make reservations, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist seasons. This ensures a more personalized and enjoyable experience.
Q: Are there any brewery events or festivals in Paso Robles?
A: Paso Robles hosts various beer-related events throughout the year, including beer festivals, release parties, and special tastings. Check the local event calendars for the most up-to-date information.
Q: Can I bring children or pets to the breweries?
A: Policies vary by brewery, but many are family-friendly and pet-friendly, especially in outdoor areas. It’s best to verify each brewery’s rules before you visit.
Q: Are there guided brewery tour options available?
A: Yes, some breweries offer guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the brewing process and the history of the brewery. These tours can enhance your experience and provide a deeper understanding of the craft.
Q: Can I purchase beer to take home from the breweries?
A: Most breweries offer cans, bottles, growlers, or crowlers (32-ounce cans) of their beers for purchase. This is a great way to enjoy your favorite brews later or share them with friends.
Q: Are there any recommended transportation options for brewery hopping?
A: Consider using designated drivers, ride-sharing services, or joining organized brewery tours to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, especially if you plan to sample a variety of beers.
Q: Are there other attractions to explore in Paso Robles besides breweries?
A: Absolutely! Paso Robles is known for its beautiful vineyards, hot springs, art galleries, and outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. The city also boasts a historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Q: Are there any local food options available at the breweries?
A: Many breweries partner with local food trucks or have on-site restaurants that offer a variety of food options to complement your beer tasting experience.
Photo by Maria Benitez on Unsplash