Costa Mesa, California, has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This Orange County city boasts a diverse and thriving beer scene, offering a range of flavors from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Local breweries and taprooms showcase the artisanal skill and creativity that define the craft beer movement in Southern California.
The Costa Mesa Beer Trail has grown to include five tasting rooms concentrated around the SoBeCa District. This convenient cluster allows beer lovers to explore multiple venues in a single outing. Each brewery brings its unique style and atmosphere to the table, contributing to the city’s reputation as a craft beer destination.
Visitors and residents alike can enjoy freshly brewed beers at establishments like Green Cheek Beer Company, Bootlegger’s Brewery, and Salty Bear Brewing. These local favorites exemplify the passion and quality that have made Costa Mesa a standout in Orange County’s evolving craft beer landscape.
The Rise of Craft Brewing in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa has become a thriving hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s brewing scene has expanded rapidly, offering a diverse range of artisanal brews and unique taproom experiences.
History and Influence
Craft brewing in Costa Mesa gained momentum in the late 2000s. The city’s proximity to other Southern California beer hotspots like San Diego influenced its growth. Early pioneers like Bootlegger’s Brewery, which opened its Costa Mesa location in the 2010s, helped pave the way.
Local breweries drew inspiration from established craft beer cultures while developing their own distinctive styles. This blend of influences resulted in a rich tapestry of flavors and brewing techniques unique to Costa Mesa.
The city’s craft beer scene has fostered a strong sense of community. Many breweries collaborate on special releases and events, further strengthening the local beer culture.
Statistics and Growth
Costa Mesa’s craft brewing industry has seen remarkable expansion in recent years. The number of breweries in the city has more than doubled since 2015. As of 2024, Costa Mesa boasts over a dozen craft breweries and taprooms.
Key growth indicators:
- Annual beer production: Increased by 150% since 2018
- Direct employment: Over 200 jobs created in the brewing sector
- Economic impact: Estimated $30 million contribution to the local economy
Popular Costa Mesa breweries:
- Green Cheek Beer Company
- Salty Bear Brewing
- Brewing Reserve of California
These establishments have garnered recognition beyond city limits, winning awards at regional and national beer competitions. Their success has attracted beer tourists, boosting Costa Mesa’s reputation as a craft beer destination.
Discovering Costa Mesa’s Breweries

Costa Mesa boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several notable breweries. These establishments offer a diverse range of locally brewed beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.
Gunwhale Ales
Gunwhale Ales specializes in farmhouse-style and hop-forward beers. Their taproom features a rustic ambiance with reclaimed wood and nautical decor.
Popular offerings include the Hayshaker Farmhouse Ale and Bait Ball IPA. Gunwhale often hosts food trucks and live music events.
The brewery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of local ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
Barley Forge Brewing Co
Barley Forge Brewing Co focuses on German and Belgian-style beers. Their spacious taproom includes a full kitchen serving pub fare.
Flagship beers include The Patsy coconut rye stout and Don Perfecto coffee chipotle stout. Barley Forge also offers a rotating selection of seasonal brews.
The brewery’s dog-friendly patio is a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy craft beer.
Brewing Reserve of California
Brewing Reserve of California emphasizes small-batch, experimental beers. Their intimate taproom features a rotating selection of unique brews.
Notable offerings include the Hazy Daisy IPA and Coconut Porter. The brewery frequently collaborates with local businesses for limited-edition releases.
Brewing Reserve hosts regular events like trivia nights and beer education classes.
Salty Bear Brewing
Salty Bear Brewing specializes in West Coast-style IPAs and ales. Their beachside-themed taproom offers a laid-back atmosphere.
Popular beers include the Salty Bear IPA and Honey Blonde Ale. The brewery also produces small-batch sours and barrel-aged beers.
Salty Bear’s taproom features games like cornhole and giant Jenga, creating a fun, social environment.
Green Cheek Beer Co
Green Cheek Beer Co focuses on hoppy IPAs and crisp lagers. Their modern taproom boasts a sleek, minimalist design.
Standout beers include the West Coast IPA and Radiant Beauty Pilsner. Green Cheek has gained recognition for their consistent quality and innovative brewing techniques.
The brewery offers a rotating food menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Karl Strauss Brewing Company, a well-established San Diego brewery, operates a location in Costa Mesa. Their spacious brewpub offers a full restaurant menu.
Flagship beers include Red Trolley Ale and Aurora Hoppyalis IPA. Karl Strauss also brews seasonal and limited-release beers throughout the year.
The Costa Mesa location features a beautiful outdoor patio and frequently hosts beer pairing dinners.
Bootlegger’s Brewery
Bootlegger’s Brewery, originally from Fullerton, has expanded to Costa Mesa. Their taproom offers a wide variety of beer styles.
Popular brews include the Knuckle Sandwich Double IPA and Old World Hefeweizen. Bootlegger’s also produces a line of hard seltzers.
The brewery’s Costa Mesa location features a cozy taproom with a friendly, neighborhood vibe.
Exploring Beer Styles and Specialties

Costa Mesa’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of styles and flavors. Local breweries showcase traditional European recipes alongside innovative American interpretations, catering to various palates and preferences.
Saison and the European Farmhouse Tradition
Saisons originated in Belgium’s farmhouses as refreshing summer ales. Costa Mesa brewers have embraced this style, crafting complex, effervescent beers with fruity and spicy notes.
Local interpretations often feature:
- Citrus and peppery flavors
- Dry finish
- Higher alcohol content than traditional versions
Some breweries experiment with unique ingredients like local herbs or fruits to create distinctive saison variations.
Mexican American Style Lager and Regional Favorites
Mexican American style lagers have gained popularity in Costa Mesa, reflecting the area’s cultural influences. These beers are crisp, light-bodied, and highly refreshing.
Characteristics include:
- Clean malt profile
- Subtle hop bitterness
- Easy-drinking nature
Many local breweries offer their take on this style, often incorporating regional ingredients like agave or citrus to add a California twist.
Old World Hefeweizen and Wheat Beers
Hefeweizens and wheat beers bring German brewing traditions to Costa Mesa. These unfiltered ales are known for their cloudy appearance and distinctive flavors.
Key features:
- Banana and clove aromas
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Refreshing wheat base
Local brewers often stay true to traditional recipes, though some experiment with American hop varieties or fruit additions for a unique spin.
Bold IPAs and Double IPAs
India Pale Ales (IPAs) dominate the Costa Mesa craft beer scene. From West Coast-style hop bombs to hazy New England variants, the city’s breweries showcase a wide range of IPA interpretations.
Popular IPA styles include:
- West Coast IPA: Pine and citrus notes, dry finish
- Hazy IPA: Juicy flavors, lower bitterness
- Double IPA: Higher alcohol content, intense hop character
Many local IPAs feature California-grown hops, highlighting the state’s agricultural contributions to craft beer.
Rich Stouts and Dark Ales
Costa Mesa’s craft breweries offer an array of dark, malty beers for those seeking bold flavors. Stouts and porters provide rich, roasted profiles that contrast with lighter offerings.
Common varieties include:
- Oatmeal Stout: Smooth, creamy texture
- Coffee Stout: Infused with locally roasted beans
- Imperial Stout: High alcohol content, complex flavors
Some breweries age these dark ales in bourbon barrels, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
Beyond the Brew: Food and Entertainment Options

Costa Mesa offers a vibrant culinary and social scene to complement its craft beer offerings. Visitors can explore diverse food options, beer-centric establishments, and lively districts for a complete experience.
Food Trucks and Local Eateries
Food trucks provide convenient and tasty options for brewery-goers. Many Costa Mesa breweries partner with local food trucks, offering rotating menus of gourmet street food. Popular choices include tacos, sliders, and fusion cuisine.
Local eateries near breweries also cater to craft beer enthusiasts. Some restaurants feature beer-infused dishes or pairings designed to complement specific brews. Visitors can find everything from casual pizzerias to upscale gastropubs within walking distance of major breweries.
Bars and Restaurants with Craft Beer
Costa Mesa boasts numerous bars and restaurants with extensive craft beer selections. These establishments often feature rotating taps showcasing local and regional brews. Some notable spots include:
- Kenwood’s Kitchen & Tap: Offers a wide range of craft beers alongside American pub fare
- Matter of Craft Bottle Shop: Combines a bottle shop, tap room, and scratch kitchen
- Board & Brew: Known for its sandwiches and curated beer list
Many restaurants in Costa Mesa also prioritize craft beer, pairing their culinary offerings with local and artisanal brews.
Social Spots: The Camp and SOBECA District
The Camp and SOBECA (South on Bristol Entertainment, Culture, Arts) District are Costa Mesa’s hubs for socializing and entertainment. These areas blend shopping, dining, and nightlife.
The Camp features eco-friendly architecture and hosts several restaurants and bars with craft beer options. It’s a popular spot for outdoor dining and people-watching.
SOBECA District, centered around The LAB Anti-Mall, offers a unique mix of boutiques, eateries, and bars. Visitors can find craft beer at various locations within this vibrant neighborhood. The district often hosts events, including beer festivals and food truck gatherings, adding to its appeal for beer enthusiasts.
Craft Beer Community and Culture

Costa Mesa’s craft beer scene thrives on community engagement and a vibrant culture. Local breweries foster connections through unique experiences, educational opportunities, and strong social media presence.
Tours and Brewery Experiences
Many Costa Mesa breweries offer guided tours, providing behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process. Visitors can explore fermentation rooms, learn about ingredient selection, and witness bottling operations. Some popular stops include Green Cheek Beer Company and Bootlegger’s Brewery.
Tours often conclude with tasting sessions, allowing guests to sample a variety of beers directly from the source. Knowledgeable staff members guide participants through beer flights, explaining flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
For a comprehensive experience, local companies organize multi-brewery tours. These excursions typically visit 3-4 locations, offering a broader taste of Costa Mesa’s craft beer landscape.
Craft Beer Education and Events
Costa Mesa’s craft beer community emphasizes education through various events and programs. Breweries frequently host beer pairing dinners, showcasing how different styles complement specific dishes.
Tasting workshops led by certified cicerones help enthusiasts develop their palates. Participants learn to identify hop varieties, malt characteristics, and common off-flavors in beer.
Annual festivals celebrate the local brewing scene. These events feature rare and limited-release beers, giving attendees the chance to try unique brews not available year-round.
Many breweries also offer homebrewing classes, teaching the basics of small-scale beer production. These hands-on sessions cover equipment use, recipe formulation, and fermentation management.
Social Media Presence and Branding
Costa Mesa’s craft breweries leverage social media to connect with customers and showcase their brands. Instagram serves as a primary platform, with breweries posting eye-catching photos of new releases, tap lists, and events.
Breweries use hashtags like #CostaMesaCraftBeer to increase visibility and engage with the local community. Many also share behind-the-scenes content, giving followers glimpses of the brewing process and introducing brewery staff.
Some establishments host social media contests, encouraging customers to share photos of their visits or favorite beers. These promotions boost engagement and help spread awareness of Costa Mesa’s craft beer offerings.
Consistent branding across social platforms helps breweries establish distinct identities. Creative can designs, unique tap handles, and branded merchandise all contribute to a brewery’s visual appeal and recognition.
Enjoying Craft Beer Responsibly

Responsible craft beer consumption enhances the experience while supporting local breweries. Moderation and ethical practices are key to fully appreciating Costa Mesa’s vibrant beer scene.
Happy Hour and Moderation
Happy hour offers an opportunity to sample craft beers at reduced prices. Many Costa Mesa breweries feature weekday specials from 3-6 PM. These deals allow patrons to try new microbrews without overindulging.
Pacing is crucial when enjoying craft beer. Alternating between beer and water helps maintain hydration and slows alcohol absorption. Sharing tasting flights with friends allows for sampling multiple brews in smaller portions.
Setting a drink limit before going out ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience. Using rideshare services or designated drivers is essential after craft beer tastings.
Supporting Local Breweries Ethically
Purchasing directly from taprooms provides maximum support to Costa Mesa’s craft breweries. Many offer growler fills and to-go cans, allowing customers to enjoy fresh beer at home.
Leaving honest reviews helps breweries improve and attracts new customers. Constructive feedback on untapped or social media platforms is valuable to small businesses.
Attending brewery events like trivia nights or food pairings boosts local establishments. These gatherings foster community and showcase the brewers’ creativity beyond their core offerings.
Gifting local craft beer or brewery merchandise to friends spreads awareness of Costa Mesa’s beer scene. This word-of-mouth promotion is vital for small-batch microbreweries to thrive.
Craft Beer Buying Guide

Navigating Costa Mesa’s craft beer scene requires knowledge of where to purchase quality brews and how to build a personalized beer list. Local bottle shops offer curated selections, while developing a tailored beer list enhances the tasting experience.
Local Bottle Shops
Costa Mesa boasts several bottle shops specializing in craft beer. Matter of Craft Bottle Shop stands out as a premier destination for beer enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of local and international craft beers, with knowledgeable staff to guide selections.
Mesa Verde Wine & Liquor also carries an impressive craft beer inventory. Their selection includes hard-to-find bottles and seasonal releases from popular breweries.
Craft Beer Kings provides another option for purchasing unique and rare brews. They focus on limited-edition beers and collaborations between breweries.
These bottle shops often host tasting events, allowing customers to sample new beers before purchasing. Many offer mix-and-match six-packs, ideal for trying various styles without committing to full quantities.
Curating a Personal Beer List
Creating a personal beer list helps track preferences and discover new favorites. Start by noting beers enjoyed at local breweries like Green Cheek Beer and Bootlegger’s Brewery.
Include details such as:
- Beer name and brewery
- Style (IPA, stout, sour, etc.)
- Tasting notes
- Personal rating
Experiment with different styles to broaden your palate. Try lighter beers like lagers and pilsners, then move to hoppy IPAs or rich stouts.
Attend beer festivals and tasting events to sample a variety of brews. Many Costa Mesa breweries offer flight options, perfect for tasting multiple beers in one visit.
Use beer rating apps to log tastings and discover new recommendations based on preferences. This helps refine your list and identify trends in your beer choices.