Best 15 Breweries in Boise ID: Our Top Picks for Craft Beer Lovers
Boise, Idaho is a city that has much to offer, including a thriving craft beer scene. With over 20 breweries in the area, Boise has become a destination for beer lovers. Whether you prefer a classic lager or a unique sour, there is a brewery in Boise that will satisfy your taste buds.
The breweries in Boise offer more than just great beer. Many of them have a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a part of the community. Some even offer live music, food trucks, and outdoor seating. The passion and creativity of the brewers are evident in every sip, making each visit a unique experience. If you are a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, Boise’s breweries are a must-visit.
Boise’s Beer Culture
Boise, Idaho has a thriving beer culture that has been growing in recent years. The city is known for its craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful brews. The city’s nickname, “City of Trees,” is reflected in the many outdoor beer gardens and patios that are popular with locals and visitors alike.
One of the reasons for Boise’s beer culture is the city’s location. Boise is situated in the heart of Idaho’s hop-growing region, which means that local breweries have easy access to high-quality ingredients. Many of the city’s breweries take advantage of this by using local hops and other ingredients in their beers.
Another reason for Boise’s beer culture is the city’s support for local businesses. Many of the city’s breweries are small, locally owned businesses that rely on the support of the community. Boise residents take pride in supporting these businesses and are always on the lookout for the next great local beer.
Boise’s beer culture is also known for its inclusivity. Many of the city’s breweries offer a welcoming atmosphere for all, regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation. This has helped to create a sense of community around the beer culture in Boise.
Top Breweries in Boise
Boise, Idaho is home to some of the best breweries in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the top breweries in Boise that are worth checking out:
Boise Brewing
Boise Brewing is a local favorite that offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. They use locally sourced ingredients to create unique and delicious beers. Their taproom is a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a cold one.
Website: http://www.boisebrewing.com/
Address: 521 W Broad St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Payette Brewing
Payette Brewing is another popular brewery in Boise that offers a wide selection of beers. They have a great outdoor patio where you can enjoy a beer in the sunshine. Their flagship beer is the Payette Pale Ale, but they also offer a variety of seasonal and limited edition beers.
Website: http://www.payettebrewing.com/
Address: 733 S Pioneer St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Barbarian Brewing
Barbarian Brewing is a small, family-owned brewery that specializes in sour beers. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, including their popular “Fruit Bazooka” sour. Their taproom is cozy and welcoming, and they often have food trucks parked outside.
Website: http://barbariandowntown.com/
Address: 1022 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Woodland Empire Ale Craft
Woodland Empire Ale Craft is a unique brewery that offers a variety of experimental beers. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, including their popular “Brett IPA” and “Ginger Beer”. Their taproom is a great place to try something new and different.
Website: http://woodlandempire.beer/
Address: 1114 W Front St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Clairvoyant Brewing
Clairvoyant Brewing is a small, neighborhood brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Hazy Pale Ale” is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.clairvoyantbrewing.com/
Address: 2800 W Idaho St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Cloud 9 Brewery
Cloud 9 Brewery is a family-owned brewery that offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. They have a great outdoor patio where you can enjoy a beer in the sunshine. Their “Hop Tart” sour is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.cloud9brewery.com/
Address: 1750 W State St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Sockeye Brewing
Sockeye Brewing is one of the oldest breweries in Boise, having opened in 1996. They offer a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Their “Dagger Falls” IPA is a local favorite.
Website: http://sockeyebrew.com/
Address: 12542 W Fairview Ave, Boise, ID 83713, United States
Edge Brewing
Edge Brewing is a small, neighborhood brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Hoppy Wheat” is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.edgebrew.com/
Address: 525 Steelhead Way, Boise, ID 83704, United States
White Dog Brewing
White Dog Brewing is a small, family-owned brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Black IPA” is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.whitedogbrewing.com/
Address: 705 W Fulton St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Powderhaus Brewing
Powderhaus Brewing is a unique brewery that offers a variety of experimental beers. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, including their popular “Sour IPA” and “Hazy Pale Ale”. Their taproom is a great place to try something new and different.
Website: http://powderhausbrewing.com/
Address: 9719 W Chinden Blvd, Garden City, ID 83714, United States
Bear Island Brewing
Bear Island Brewing is a small, family-owned brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Hazy IPA” is a local favorite.
Website: https://www.bearislandbrewing.com/
Address: 1620 N Liberty St, Boise, ID 83704, United States
Highlands Hollow Brewhouse
Highlands Hollow Brewhouse is one of the oldest breweries in Boise, having opened in 1968. They offer a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Their “Highlands Hollow Hefeweizen” is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.highlandshollow.com/
Address: 2455 N Highlands Holw, Boise, ID 83702, United States
Mad Swede Brewing
Mad Swede Brewing is a small, family-owned brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Mad Swede IPA” is a local favorite.
Website: http://www.madswedebrewing.com/
Address: 2772 Cole Rd #140, Boise, ID 83709, United States
Lost Grove Brewing
Lost Grove Brewing is a unique brewery that offers a variety of experimental beers. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, including their popular “Sour Ale” and “Hazy IPA”. Their taproom is a great place to try something new and different.
Website: https://www.lostgrovebrewing.com/
Address: 1026 S La Pointe St, Boise, ID 83706, United States
Mother Earth Brew Co.
Mother Earth Brew Co. is a small, family-owned brewery that offers a variety of beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy a beer and play board games with friends. Their “Cali Creamin'” vanilla cream ale is a local favorite.
Website: https://www.motherearthbrewco.com/boise
Address: 406 S 3rd St, Boise, ID 83702, United States
These are just a few of the best breweries in Boise that are worth checking out. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to stop by and try some of the amazing beers that Boise has to offer.
Beer Styles and Tasting
Boise’s breweries offer a wide range of beer styles to suit every taste. From ales to lagers, IPAs to chocolate milk stouts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of IPAs available, including hazy IPAs, double IPAs, and tropical IPAs. For those who prefer a more mellow taste, amber lagers and pilsners are a great option.
Sour beers have also been growing in popularity in recent years, and many breweries in Boise offer their own unique take on this style. Barrel-aged beers, such as imperial stouts and porters, are also a favorite among beer connoisseurs.
Boise’s breweries also offer a range of seasonal and specialty beers. For example, Sockeye Brewing’s Rustler IPA is a popular choice among locals, while White Dog Brewing’s Red Cream Ale is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique flavor experience.
When it comes to tasting beer, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to pour the beer into a clean glass to ensure that you get the full aroma and flavor. Next, take a moment to look at the beer and note its color and clarity.
When tasting the beer, start by taking a small sip and letting it linger in your mouth for a few seconds. This will allow you to fully experience the beer’s flavor profile. Finally, take note of the beer’s finish – does the flavor linger or fade quickly?
Brewery Atmosphere
Boise is home to a variety of breweries, each with its own unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a lively taproom or a peaceful beer garden, there’s something for everyone in Boise’s brewery scene.
One of the most popular breweries in Boise is Boise Brewing. Located in downtown Boise, this brewery offers a spacious taproom with a casual atmosphere. With a variety of beers on tap and a friendly staff, Boise Brewing is a great place to relax and enjoy a cold one with friends.
Another popular spot is Payette Brewing Company, located in Garden City. This brewery offers a large outdoor beer garden, perfect for enjoying a sunny day with your furry friend. With a variety of beers on tap and a dog-friendly atmosphere, Payette Brewing Company is a great spot for beer lovers and dog lovers alike.
For those looking for a more intimate experience, Mother Earth Brew Co. is a great option. This nano brewery is located in downtown Boise and offers a cozy taproom with a laid-back atmosphere. With a focus on sustainability and community, Mother Earth Brew Co. is a great spot to enjoy a beer and connect with like-minded individuals.
No matter what your preference, Boise’s brewery scene has something to offer. From lively taprooms to peaceful beer gardens, there’s a brewery for everyone to enjoy.
Food Pairings
Boise’s breweries are known for their high-quality beer, but they also offer delicious food pairings that enhance the tasting experience. Whether you’re looking for a full meal or a snack to go with your brew, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Many breweries in Boise have their own restaurants or food trucks on-site, making it easy to grab a bite while enjoying a pint. For example, White Dog Brewing offers a full menu of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Meanwhile, Lost Grove Brewing has a rotating selection of food trucks parked outside their taproom, offering everything from tacos to fish and chips.
If you’re looking for a specific type of cuisine to pair with your beer, Boise’s breweries have got you covered. Barbarian Brewing, for example, specializes in sour beers and offers a selection of artisanal cheeses to pair with them. Boise Brewing, on the other hand, has a menu of elevated pub fare, including dishes like beer-battered fish and chips and a grilled cheese sandwich made with local cheddar and jalapeño jelly.
Additional Offerings
In addition to their excellent beer selections, many of the best breweries in Boise, ID offer a variety of other beverages and food options. Some breweries also offer unique events and experiences that make for a fun and memorable outing.
For those looking for a non-alcoholic option, many breweries offer a selection of coffee and tea. Some even partner with local roasters to provide a unique and delicious coffee experience. Others offer a selection of citrus-infused drinks, perfect for a refreshing summer day.
For those who prefer something sweeter, some breweries offer a selection of ciders and wines. These options are perfect for those who want to enjoy a drink with friends but aren’t beer drinkers. Some breweries even offer chocolate and other sweet treats to pair with their drinks.
Many breweries also pride themselves on their use of organic ingredients. These breweries offer a selection of beers made with organic hops and grains, perfect for those who are conscious of their environmental impact.
For those looking for a unique experience, some breweries offer events like trivia nights, live music, and even yoga classes. These events are a great way to enjoy a night out with friends while trying new beers and having fun.
Awards and Recognition
Boise has a thriving craft beer scene, and many of its breweries have received recognition for their exceptional brews. The city has won numerous awards at national and international beer competitions, cementing its reputation as a top beer destination.
One of the most prestigious awards that breweries in Boise have won is the North American Beer Awards (NABA). This annual competition is open to commercial breweries in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and is judged by a panel of certified beer judges. In 2022, Boise Breweries won a total of 30 medals at the NABA, including eight gold, 12 silver, and 10 bronze. Boise Brewing Company and Barbarian Brewing each won two medals, while Payette Brewing Company, Edge Brewing Company, Woodland Empire Ale Craft, Clairvoyant Brewing, White Dog Brewing, Cloud 9 Brewery, Crooked Fence, and Sockeye Brewing each won one medal.
Boise breweries have also won awards at other notable competitions, such as the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and the World Beer Cup. In 2021, Boise Brewing Company won a silver medal in the Belgian-Style Tripel category at the GABF, while Edge Brewing Company won a bronze medal in the American-Style Brown Ale category at the World Beer Cup.
In addition to these competitions, many Boise breweries have been recognized by local and national publications for their outstanding beers. For example, Boise Weekly’s annual Best of Boise poll consistently includes categories for best local brewery and best local beer, with various Boise breweries taking home the top honors over the years.
Seasonal and Special Beers
Boise’s breweries are known for their creative and unique brews, especially when it comes to seasonal and special beers. Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin spice or barrel-aged imperial stouts, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular seasonal beers in Boise is Oktoberfest. Many of the city’s breweries offer their own take on this classic German beer, with flavors ranging from traditional to experimental. Some of the best places to find Oktoberfest beers include Boise Brewing, Payette Brewing Company, and Edge Brewing Company.
Another favorite among beer enthusiasts is barrel-aged imperial stout. This style of beer is aged in barrels that previously held whiskey or other spirits, resulting in a complex and rich flavor profile. Boise’s breweries are no strangers to this style, with some of the best options including Clairvoyant Brewing and White Dog Brewing.
In addition to these seasonal and special beers, Boise’s breweries also offer a variety of other unique brews throughout the year. From fruity sours to hoppy IPAs, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
FAQ
Boise, Idaho, is home to some of the best breweries in the country. With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the Boise brewery scene.
What are the best breweries in Boise?
Boise has many great breweries, but some of the best ones include Barbarian Brewing, White Dog Brewing, and Boise Brewing. Barbarian Brewing is known for its unique and creative brews, while White Dog Brewing offers a great selection of classic beers. Boise Brewing is a community-focused brewery that prides itself on sustainability and using local ingredients.
What types of beer can I expect to find at Boise breweries?
Boise breweries offer a wide variety of beer styles, from classic IPAs and stouts to more experimental brews. Some breweries specialize in specific types of beer, such as sour beers or barrel-aged beers, while others offer a little bit of everything. Check out the brewery’s website or social media pages for a list of their current offerings.
Do Boise breweries offer food?
Many Boise breweries offer food, ranging from small snacks to full meals. Some breweries have their own kitchens, while others partner with food trucks or nearby restaurants. Check the brewery’s website or social media pages for information on their food options.
Can I bring my kids or pets to Boise Breweries?
Each brewery has its own policy regarding children and pets. Some breweries are family-friendly and welcome kids, while others are 21 and over only. Some breweries allow pets on their outdoor patios, while others do not. Check the brewery’s website or social media pages for their policy on children and pets.
Do Boise breweries offer tours?
Many Boise breweries offer tours of their facilities, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how their beer is made. Some breweries require reservations for tours, while others offer them on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the brewery’s website or social media pages for information on their tour options.