10 Best Breweries in San Diego County

"Bartender pouring a Death Before Dying beer at North Park in San Diego. Credit: Courtesy of North Park Beer. The first thing you should know about this company is that its tasting room is big, beautiful, and definitely a place where you’d want to spend an afternoon."

"When you come to this brewery, you’re not just getting a tasting room — you’re also getting an incredible beer garden that you’ll want to stay in all afternoon. Established in 1989, this beer brewing company exemplifies the Southern California lifestyle with its refreshing brews and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also credited as being one of the first breweries to kick off the craft beer scene in San Diego."

"Their red trolley ale is my favorite and a great pick for first time visitors. Many convenient locations across San Diego (even inside airport terminal!) makes it a great option to try."

"With over 500 excellent reviews on Yelp, Societe Brewing is one of the best local breweries in San Diego. The brewery has an open design, allowing for a large group to comfortably fit on their community bench tables. Many visitors like their Belgian style beers and the Pupil medium-bodied IPA."

"Founded in 2012, Societe Brewing Company specializes in Belgian style taps and wine barrel aged beers. Head over for a free tour of the brewery and sample the large tasting options. Follow your favorite cold brews with fresh, tempting selections from the daily food trucks parked nearby."

"he Kearny Mesa tasting room is open for pickup and dine-in from 11am-9pm daily. Order online here or through Postmates for delivery."

"Hillcrest Brewing is more than just a great place to sample a wide variety of specialty beers, some far-above-average tavern food specialties, and a convivial atmosphere. Hillcrest can also lay claim to being the world’s first LGBTQ-owned-and-operated brewery in the world. So be sure to stop in to try a pint from among their deep range of tasty tappers and say hello to their “hunky brewsters."

"Walking along the water more than 50 years ago, Tom Ham had a vision for a restaurant built around the working lighthouse on this point of land. He designed the restaurant in the shape of California and built it to include the shining beacon, adding the finishing touch of his own fog bell. The restaurant prospered, enjoying a reputation for fine dining and breathtaking views of the San Diego Harbor."

"Whether you’re looking for a light meal with complex flavors or want a heartier meal for date night, you’ll find an entree you enjoy at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse, especially if you’re visiting the eatery for lunch or an early dinner. Meal starters include clam chowder with olive oil, sea salt, and avocado. You can also try the house-made ceviche or calamari with honey chili lime sauce."

"This restaurant is housed in a historic-but-still-functioning lighthouse at the tip of Harbor Island Drive. The menu reflects the setting with a seafood-driven menu available from brunch to dinner."

"South Park’s Fernside will be offering a rotation menu of bottled cocktails (they will all be doubles) along with Pimm’s Cup (discounted during happy hour) michelada kits, wine, 32oz growlers of draft beer and spirits."