Cleveland is a city that's full of flavor. From our restaurants and markets to our local brews and wines, there's much in the area that'll doubtlessly delight your taste buds. It seems breweries are popping up all over Greater Cleveland, even in the most unexpected of places. They each have their own personality and flair, and each one is worth exploring. Prepare to indulge, because we're about to embark on an adventure in search of the best brews in the state.
1. Noble Beast Brewing Co. (1470 Lakeside Ave. E., Cleveland)
Traditional brews and great food? Now that's a combination a true Clevelander could never turn down. During your visit, you simply must try a glass of the Chick’n Waffles Imperial Stout. It's a Russian Imperial with an ABV of 12.1% (holy cow!), and it's a delightful blend of hot sauce, maple, and cookie flavors.
2. Nano Brew Cleveland (1859 West 25th St., Cleveland)
Whether you're inside this bar or relaxing at the Beer Garden Bar, you'll have your choice of 24 delicious beers, and their burger selection is just as unique. You'll doubtlessly want to indulge in a freshly brewed beverage from their one barrel brewhouse!
3. Masthead Brewing Co. (1261 Superior Ave., Cleveland)
Pizza and beer? A match made in heaven. This lively brewery is a blast both indoors and out, where diners enjoy relaxing on a dog-friendly patio. Masthead's Flat Earth is a hit when it's on tap, and the Jalapeño IPA offers the best way to warm up on cold days.
4. Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. (587 Grant St., Akron)
Thirsty Dog has gathered quite a bit of brand loyalty in the area, but likely has nothing to do with their dog-centric labeling. Their hand-crafted, small-batch brews are to die for, and beers like Old Leghumper and Labrador Lager are beloved by all.
5. Fat Head's Brewery & Saloon (24581 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted)
Fat Head's Brewery & Saloon over in North Olmsted has quickly become a local landmark. While you sip on brews like the Super Juicy Hop JuJu, you can tap on the glass to greet the very masterminds that created your brew in the Brewpub. Indulge in classic American dishes while you sample the local brews with large-scale flavors.
6. Great Lakes Brewing Company (2516 Market Ave., Cleveland)
The bold and luminous Barrel-Aged Blackout Stout is a pub exclusive at the Great Lakes Brewing Company Ohio City Brewpub. Their bar once hosted the likes of Eliot Ness, though it now hosts the most modern crowd in Cleveland.
7. The Brew Kettle (8377 Pearl Rd., Strongsville)
Strongsville has changed remarkably in recent years, growing to host aspiring businesses like The Brew Kettle. This smokehouse and brewery actually offers you the chance to brew your own beer, which many locals simply can't resist. El Lupulo Libre is one of their best year-round brews, but many wait all year long for seasonal specials like Summer Rays and Oktofest.
8. Market Garden Brewery (1947 W 25th St., Cleveland)
There's nothing like relaxing at Market Garden Brewery after a trek through the West Side Market. Their flatbreads are to die for, though every menu item is worth considering. You'll enjoy a vast selection of beers, many of which give a nod to local culture via names like Franklin Castle.
9. The Tasting Room at Hoppin' Frog (1680 E Waterloo Rd., Akron)
We're heading back into Akron for a tasting room with a super cute mascot. The Tasting Room at Hoppin' Frog is the best place to try unique brews like D.O.R.I.S. The Destroyer, and you certainly won't be surprised to learn that this brewery is ranked consistently among the best brewers in the area.
10. The BottleHouse (2050 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights)
This Cleveland Heights brewery is also a meadery, and it's one of the chicest places to hang out in all of Greater Cleveland. Brews like the Erie Coast IPA pay homage to local landscapes and flavors in one tasty blend.
11. Brick and Barrel Brewing (1844 Columbus Rd., Cleveland)
Last but not least, we're returning to Cleveland for one final delicious drink. The Brick and Barrel Brewing ambiance is appropriately beer-centric. Armed with a DIY, working man-type attitude that helped build the surrounding neighborhood, this brewery does a fantastic job at capturing the essence of Cleveland.
These 11 breweries have some of the best craft beers in the entire state, and they're amazingly close to home. Which is your favorite must-see destination?
If you enjoyed this road trip, you'll adore this wine and waterfalls journey through Cleveland.
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