Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in the Houston area of Texas? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer near Houston, Texas so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Texas, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. If you’re looking for the top breweries near Dallas or San Antonio, you can check that out here and here! We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Lone Star State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#5 Whole Foods Market Brewing Company – 3.95 average Untapped rating

Whole Foods Market Brewing Company, also known as “Brewery at Whole Foods Market,” is a unique concept where Whole Foods Market stores incorporate small-scale breweries within their premises. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Brewery at Whole Foods Market can be found in select Whole Foods Market locations across Texas, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin, among others.

2. **Founding**: Whole Foods Market introduced its brewery concept to provide customers with fresh, locally brewed beer options directly within the grocery store environment. The exact founding dates may vary depending on the location and when the brewery was installed.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The brewing philosophy of Brewery at Whole Foods Market centers around providing high-quality, small-batch craft beers that cater to local tastes and preferences. They often collaborate with local breweries or hire experienced brewers to oversee the brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection**: The beer selection at Brewery at Whole Foods Market varies depending on the location and the brewery’s capacity. They typically offer a rotating selection of beers, including various styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, lagers, and seasonal specialties. The selection often reflects the diverse tastes of the local community.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Whole Foods Market stores with breweries offer a unique taproom experience where customers can enjoy freshly brewed beers on-site. The taprooms provide a casual and relaxed atmosphere for shoppers and beer enthusiasts to sample different beers, socialize, and enjoy food from the store’s deli or prepared foods section.

6. **Distribution**: Since the beers are brewed on-site, the distribution is typically limited to the Whole Foods Market location where the brewery is housed. Customers can purchase beers directly from the taproom or fill up growlers to take home.

Overall, Brewery at Whole Foods Market offers a convenient and innovative way for shoppers to enjoy locally brewed craft beers while they shop for groceries. It also serves as a platform to showcase local brewing talent and support the craft beer community in Texas.

 #4 Brash Brewing Company – 3.98 average Untapped rating

Brash Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery based in Houston, Texas. Here’s an overview of the brewery:

1. **Location**: Brash Brewing Company is located in Houston, Texas, adding to the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.

2. **Founding**: Brash Brewing Company was founded by Ben Fullelove, a seasoned brewer with a passion for bold and flavorful beers. The brewery officially opened its doors in 2012 and has since gained a reputation for its uncompromising approach to brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Brash Brewing Company is known for its unapologetically bold and assertive beers. The brewery takes pride in pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing styles and creating innovative and flavorful brews that appeal to craft beer enthusiasts seeking something unique and exciting.

4. **Beer Selection**: Brash Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, including a wide range of IPAs, stouts, porters, and experimental brews. Their beers are characterized by their robust flavors, high alcohol content, and distinctive branding. Some popular offerings include “Smoglifter,” a robust porter, and “EZ-7,” an American IPA.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its industrial-chic decor, ample seating, and friendly staff, the taproom offers a comfortable space for beer enthusiasts to gather, socialize, and sample Brash Brewing Company’s latest releases.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving customers directly from their taproom, Brash Brewing Company distributes its beers to bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Texas and beyond. They also participate in various beer festivals and events, allowing them to showcase their brews to a wider audience.

Overall, Brash Brewing Company is celebrated for its commitment to brewing bold and innovative craft beers and its dedication to fostering a strong community around its brand. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or experimental brews, Brash Brewing Company has something to offer for every palate.

#3 SpindleTap Brewery – 4.00 average Untapped rating

SpindleTap Brewery is a craft brewery located in Houston, Texas. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: SpindleTap Brewery is situated in Houston, Texas, providing locals and visitors with access to a diverse range of craft beers in the bustling city.

2. **Founding**: SpindleTap Brewery was founded by a group of friends with a passion for brewing exceptional beer. Since its establishment, the brewery has become a prominent player in the Texas craft beer scene, known for its innovative brews and community-oriented approach.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: SpindleTap Brewery is dedicated to brewing high-quality and flavorful beers using the finest ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. They prioritize innovation and creativity in their brewing process, constantly experimenting with different styles and ingredients to push the boundaries of craft beer.

4. **Beer Selection**: SpindleTap Brewery offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their hop-forward brews, as well as their barrel-aged and sour offerings. Each beer is carefully crafted to deliver a unique and memorable drinking experience.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its industrial-chic decor, spacious seating areas, and friendly staff, the taproom is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and locals looking to relax and socialize.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving customers directly from their taproom, SpindleTap Brewery distributes its beers to bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Houston and the surrounding areas. They also participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their brews to a wider audience.

Overall, SpindleTap Brewery is celebrated for its commitment to brewing exceptional craft beer and its dedication to building a strong community around its brand. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just discovering the world of craft beer, a visit to SpindleTap Brewery promises a memorable and enjoyable experience.

 #2 Urban South Brewery – HTX – 4.04 average Untapped rating

Urban South Brewery is a craft brewery located in Houston, Texas. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Urban South Brewery is situated in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, providing locals and visitors with a taste of innovative craft beer in the heart of the city.

2. **Founding**: Urban South Brewery originated in New Orleans, Louisiana, where it quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to brewing. The brewery expanded to Houston, Texas, bringing its distinctive brews to a new audience.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Urban South Brewery is committed to brewing bold and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. They strive to create innovative and exciting brews that appeal to a wide range of beer enthusiasts.

4. **Beer Selection**: Urban South Brewery offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative and experimental approach to brewing, often incorporating unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create memorable and distinctive brews.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a lively and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its modern decor, friendly staff, and spacious seating areas, the taproom is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and locals alike.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving customers directly from their taproom, Urban South Brewery distributes its beers to select bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Houston and the surrounding area. They also participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their brews to a wider audience.

Overall, Urban South Brewery is celebrated for its commitment to brewing innovative and high-quality craft beer and its dedication to fostering a sense of community among its patrons. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just discovering the world of craft beer, a visit to Urban South Brewery promises a memorable and enjoyable experience.

 #1 Baa Baa Brewhouse – 4.21 average Untapped rating

Baa Baa Brewhouse is a craft brewery located in Brookshire, Texas, just outside of Houston. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Baa Baa Brewhouse is situated in Brookshire, Texas, providing a rural setting for craft beer enthusiasts to enjoy unique and innovative brews.

2. **Founding**: Baa Baa Brewhouse was founded by a husband and wife team with a passion for brewing exceptional beer. The brewery’s name, “Baa Baa,” is a nod to their love of animals and the pastoral surroundings of their brewery.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The brewery is dedicated to brewing small-batch, handcrafted beers using traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Baa Baa Brewhouse focuses on quality over quantity, taking the time to carefully craft each beer to perfection.

4. **Beer Selection**: Baa Baa Brewhouse offers a diverse selection of craft beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, stouts, saisons, and barrel-aged specialties. They are known for their experimental approach to brewing, often incorporating unique ingredients and flavor profiles to create memorable and distinctive brews.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a cozy and rustic atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its barn-inspired decor, friendly staff, and outdoor seating area, the taproom offers a relaxed setting where visitors can gather with friends and family to sample a wide range of brews.

6. **Distribution**: While Baa Baa Brewhouse primarily serves customers directly from their taproom, they also participate in local beer festivals and events, allowing them to showcase their brews to a wider audience. Additionally, they occasionally distribute limited quantities of their beers to select bars, restaurants, and retailers in the Houston area.

Overall, Baa Baa Brewhouse is celebrated for its dedication to brewing high-quality craft beer and its commitment to supporting the local community. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking to explore the world of craft beer, a visit to Baa Baa Brewhouse promises a memorable and enjoyable experience.