Best 18 Breweries in Cincinnati OH: A Guide to the City’s Top Craft Beer Destinations

ByAnthony Smith Last Updated:

Cincinnati is a city with a rich brewing history and a thriving craft beer scene. With over 50 breweries to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit. Fortunately, there are several breweries that stand out from the rest and are considered the best in the city.

Rhinegeist Brewery is one of the most popular breweries in Cincinnati, known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery is located in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and has a spacious taproom with an outdoor rooftop deck. Another top brewery in Cincinnati is MadTree Brewing, which is known for its creative and experimental beers. The brewery has a large taproom and outdoor beer garden, making it a great spot for groups.

Other notable breweries in Cincinnati include Taft’s Brewing Company, which is housed in a renovated church and has a wide selection of beers and a full restaurant menu. Urban Artifact is another popular brewery that specializes in sour beers and has a unique taproom with a large outdoor space. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these breweries are a must-visit for any beer enthusiast.

Top Breweries in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is known for its rich beer culture and has a plethora of breweries to choose from. Here are some of the top breweries in Cincinnati that are worth a visit.

Rhinegeist Brewery

Rhinegeist Brewery is one of the most popular breweries in Cincinnati. It is located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery has a spacious taproom and a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city.

Website: https://rhinegeist.com/

Address: 1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States

Madtree Brewing

Madtree Brewing is another popular brewery in Cincinnati that is known for its creative and delicious beers. The brewery has a large taproom and an outdoor beer garden that is perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a sunny day.

Website: https://madtree.com/

Address: 3301 Madison Road Cincinnati, OH 45209

West Side Brewing

West Side Brewing is a family-owned brewery that is located on the west side of Cincinnati. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: https://westsidebrewing.com/

Address: 3044 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45211, United States

Fibonacci Brewing Company

Fibonacci Brewing Company is a small brewery that is located in the suburb of Mt. Healthy. The brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a relaxing evening.

Website: http://fibbrew.com/

Address: 1445 Compton Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45231, United States

March First Brewing

March First Brewing is a unique brewery that combines beer and spirits. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, as well as craft cocktails and spirits. The taproom is spacious and has a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for a night out.

Website: https://www.marchfirstbrewing.com/

Address: 7885 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, United States

Taft’s Ale House

Taft’s Ale House is a historic brewery that is located in a former church in Over-the-Rhine. The brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as delicious food. The taproom has a beautiful stained glass window and a cozy atmosphere.

Website: https://taftsbeer.com/

Address: 1429 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States

Third Eye Brewing

Third Eye Brewing is a small brewery that is located in Sharonville. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a night out.

Website: https://thirdeyebrewingco.com/

Address: 11276 Chester Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45246, United States

Humble Monk Brewing Co

Humble Monk Brewing Co is a small brewery that is located in Northside. The brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a relaxing evening.

Website: https://humblemonkbrewing.com/

Address: 1641 Blue Rock St, Cincinnati, OH 45223, United States

Sonder Brewing

Sonder Brewing is a spacious brewery that is located in Mason. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a large taproom that is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: https://sonderbrewing.com/

Address: 8584 Duke Blvd, Mason, OH 45040, United States

Little Miami Brewing Company

Little Miami Brewing Company is a small brewery that is located in Milford. The brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as delicious food. The taproom has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a night out.

Website: https://www.littlemiamibrewing.com/

Address: 208 Mill St #1, Milford, OH 45150, United States

Big Ash Brewing

Big Ash Brewing is a family-owned brewery that is located in Anderson Township. The brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as delicious food. The taproom has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: https://www.bigashbrewing.com/

Address: 5230 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45230, United States

Cartridge Brewing

Cartridge Brewing is a spacious brewery that is located in Liberty Township. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a large taproom that is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: http://www.cartridgebrewing.com/

Address: 1411 Grandin Rd, Maineville, OH 45039, United States

Dead Low Brewing

Dead Low Brewing is a small brewery that is located in California. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a night out.

Website: http://www.deadlowbrewing.com/

Address: 5959 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45230, United States

Fifty West Brewing Company

Fifty West Brewing Company is a popular brewery that is located in Columbia Township. The brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as delicious food. The taproom has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: https://fiftywestbrew.com/

Address: 7605 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227, United States

Mt. Carmel Brewing Company

Mt. Carmel Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery that is located in Mt. Carmel. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a night out.

Website: http://www.mtcarmelbrewing.com/

Address: 4362 Mt Carmel Tobasco Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45244, United States

Esoteric Brewing Co

Esoteric Brewing Co is a small brewery that is located in Walnut Hills. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a cozy taproom that is perfect for a night out.

Website: https://www.esotericbrewing.com/

Address: 918 E McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45206, United States

Northern Row Brewery

Northern Row Brewery is a spacious brewery that is located in Over-the-Rhine. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and has a large taproom that is perfect for a night out with friends.

Website: http://www.northernrow.com/

Address: 111 W McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States

Woodburn Brewing

Woodburn Brewing is a small brewery that is located in East Walnut Hills. They pride themselves on crafting unique and flavorful brews that cater to a diverse range of tastes, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

Website: http://www.woodburnbrewing.com/

Address: 2800 Woodburn Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45206, United States

Exploring the Beer Styles

Cincinnati is known for its craft beer scene, and with over 50 breweries to choose from, there is no shortage of beer styles to explore. From IPAs to stouts, there is a beer for every taste.

IPAs are a popular style in Cincinnati, and many breweries offer their own take on this hoppy beer. Rhinegeist Brewery’s Truth IPA is a local favorite, with a bold and bitter flavor. MadTree Brewing’s Psychopathy IPA is another popular choice, with a citrusy and piney taste.

For those who prefer a lighter beer, lagers are a great option. Christian Moerlein Brewing Company’s Lager House is a great place to try a classic German-style lager. The brewery also offers a range of other beer styles, including IPAs and stouts.

Stouts is a rich and dark beer that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter day. Braxton Brewing Company’s Dark Charge Imperial Stout is a local favorite, with flavors of chocolate and coffee. Listermann Brewing Company’s Chickow! Nut Brown Ale is another popular choice, with a nutty and chocolatey taste.

Sour beers are a unique style that is becoming increasingly popular in Cincinnati. Urban Artifact is a brewery that specializes in sour beers, with their beers made with real fruit for a tart and refreshing taste. Rhinegeist Brewery’s Bubbles Rosé Ale is another popular sour beer, with a fruity and effervescent taste.

Cream ales are a smooth and easy-drinking beer that is perfect for a hot summer day. Fifty West Brewing Company’s Doom Pedal White Ale is a local favorite, with a light and citrusy taste. Taft’s Brewing Company’s Nellie’s Key Lime Caribbean Ale is another popular choice, with a creamy and tart flavor.

Finally, coffee stouts are a great option for those who love both coffee and beer. Brink Brewing Company’s Hold the Reins Coffee Stout is a local favorite, with a rich and roasty flavor. MadTree Brewing’s Are You Ready for Some Darkness? Coffee Stout is another popular choice, with a smooth and chocolatey taste.

Food Pairings

When it comes to enjoying a cold beer, nothing complements it better than a delicious meal. Cincinnati’s breweries offer a variety of food options that pair perfectly with their craft brews. From classic pub fare to gourmet meals, there’s something for everyone.

For those looking for a hearty meal, burgers and sandwiches are always a great option. Many breweries offer their take on classic burgers, with toppings ranging from bacon and cheese to fried eggs and avocado. Sandwiches are also a popular choice, with options like pulled pork and BBQ chicken.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, salads are a great choice. Many breweries offer fresh, seasonal salads with a variety of toppings like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and nuts.

Appetizers are always a crowd-pleaser and can be shared among friends. Popular options include wings, mac and cheese bites, and loaded fries.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, some breweries offer full-service restaurants with gourmet meals. These restaurants often have rotating menus that feature seasonal ingredients and pair perfectly with their craft beers.

Lastly, pizza is always a great option when paired with beer. Many breweries offer their take on classic pizza, with unique toppings like figs, prosciutto, and goat cheese.

Unique Features of Cincinnati Breweries

Cincinnati breweries offer a unique experience that sets them apart from other breweries. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of beers and explore the unique features of each brewery. Here are some of the unique features of Cincinnati breweries:

Outdoor Seating and Alcoves

Many Cincinnati breweries offer outdoor seating and alcoves where visitors can enjoy their beer in the fresh air. Some breweries have outdoor beer gardens that are perfect for enjoying a sunny day while sipping on a cold brew. The outdoor seating areas are often decorated with plants and string lights, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Rooftop Beer Gardens

A few Cincinnati breweries have rooftop beer gardens that offer stunning views of the city skyline. These rooftop beer gardens are perfect for a romantic night out or for enjoying a drink with friends. Visitors can enjoy a cold brew while taking in the breathtaking views of the city.

Live Music and Fire Pits

Some Cincinnati breweries offer live music and fire pits, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer while listening to live music or sitting around a fire pit with friends. These breweries often have a schedule of events that visitors can check to see what live music or events are coming up.

Parties and Kid-Friendly Taprooms

Cincinnati breweries are perfect for parties and gatherings. Some breweries offer private event spaces that can accommodate large groups, making them perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, or weddings. Some breweries also have kid-friendly taprooms, allowing families to enjoy a cold brew while their children play.

Beer Tastings

Many Cincinnati breweries offer beer tastings, allowing visitors to sample a variety of beers. The beer tastings are often led by knowledgeable staff who can provide information about the different beers and the brewing process. Visitors can learn about the different types of beer and find a new favorite brew.

Brewery Tours

Cincinnati is home to some of the best breweries in the country, and what better way to experience them than through a brewery tour? There are several options available for those looking to explore the city’s brewing scene.

Cincy Brew Bus

The Cincy Brew Bus offers a popular tasting tour that takes visitors to four of the city’s best breweries. The tour lasts approximately four hours and includes tastings at each stop. Private tours are also available for those looking for a more personalized experience.

Brewing Heritage Trail

The Brewing Heritage Trail offers a unique experience that combines history and beer. The tour takes visitors through the city’s historic brewing district, with stops at several breweries along the way. The tour includes a visit to an underground lagering cellar and lasts approximately two hours.

Craft Connection Brewery Tours

Craft Connection Brewery Tours is another popular option for those looking to explore Cincinnati’s breweries. The tour guides are knowledgeable and personable, and visitors can choose from a variety of scheduled tours or book a private group tour.

Breweries with Additional Offerings

Some breweries in Cincinnati offer more than just beer. Some also have additional offerings such as distillery, wine, ciders, and coffee. Here are a few breweries that offer more than just beer:

  • Rhinegeist Brewery: In addition to its wide selection of beers, Rhinegeist also has a distillery that produces gin and vodka. They also offer wine and cider options in their taproom.
  • Urban Artifact: This brewery specializes in sour beers, but it also offers a variety of wines and ciders. They even have a coffee bar that serves coffee and espresso drinks.
  • Woodburn Brewery: Woodburn Brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as a selection of wines and ciders. They also have a full-service coffee bar that serves coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries.
  • MadTree Brewing: MadTree Brewing has a large selection of beers, but they also offer a cider made with locally sourced apples. They also have a coffee bar that serves coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries.
  • Fifty West Brewing Company: Fifty West Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, but they also have a distillery that produces bourbon and gin. They also offer wine and cider options in their taproom.

Overall, these breweries offer a variety of options for those who may not be beer drinkers. Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail, a glass of wine, or a cup of coffee, these breweries have something for everyone.

Conclusion

Cincinnati, OH is a city with a rich history of brewing, and it’s a great place to explore some of the best breweries in the country. With a variety of craft beers and beer styles, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you won’t be disappointed with the selection of breweries in Cincinnati.

One of the best things about the breweries in Cincinnati is the variety of beer styles available. From traditional lagers and ales to more experimental brews, there is something for every palate. Many breweries also offer seasonal and limited-edition beers, so there is always something new to try.

Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the passion and dedication that goes into each brew. Many of the breweries in Cincinnati are small, independent operations that take pride in their craft. Visitors can often meet the brewers and learn about the brewing process, making for a unique and educational experience.

For those who want to explore the breweries in Cincinnati, there are several platforms available to help plan their trip. Websites like 365 Cincinnati and Hop Culture offer guides and recommendations for the best breweries in the city. Visitors can also use apps like Untappd to discover new beers and keep track of their favorites.