Best Columbia SC Breweries: A Guide to the Top Craft Beer Spots in the City

Columbia, SC is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for a great craft beer scene. With a growing number of breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences, it’s no wonder that Columbia is quickly becoming a top spot for beer lovers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone in Columbia’s craft beer scene.

Beers are best shared with your buds. When it comes to date night, take that special someone out to one of Columbia’s best restaurants for date night.

To truly appreciate the best breweries in Columbia, it’s important to understand the city’s craft beer scene. Columbia’s breweries are known for their creativity and innovation, often incorporating local ingredients and flavors into their brews. From classic IPAs to experimental sours, there’s no shortage of variety in Columbia’s craft beer offerings.

Key Takeaways

• Columbia, SC has a growing craft beer scene with a variety of breweries to choose from.
• Columbia’s breweries are known for their creativity and use of local ingredients.
• Some of the top breweries in Columbia include Columbia Craft Brewing Company, Hunter-Gatherer Alehouse, and River Rat Brewery.

Top Breweries in Columbia

If you’re a beer lover, you’ll be happy to know that Columbia, SC has a thriving craft beer scene. From classic brews to innovative new flavors, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top breweries in Columbia that you should check out:

River Rat Brewery

River Rat Brewery is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts in Columbia. With a wide selection of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, there’s something for everyone. 

The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it a great spot to hang out with friends. They also have a full menu of delicious bar far, so you can grab a bite to eat while you enjoy your beer.

River Rat Brewery’s Broad River Red Ale is a must-try for anyone visiting Columbia. This amber ale has a smooth, malty flavor with a hint of caramel and a slightly hoppy finish. It’s a great beer to pair with a burger or pizza.

Columbia Craft Brewing Company

Columbia Craft Brewing Company is another top brewery in the area. Their beers are brewed on-site, and they have a wide selection of styles to choose from. 

They also have a dog-friendly outdoor area, so you can bring your furry friend along for the fun. If you’re looking for a great place to grab a beer and hang out, this is definitely worth checking out.

Columbia Craft Brewing Company’s Hazy Haze is a juicy, hazy IPA that’s packed with citrus and tropical fruit flavors. It’s a great beer to pair with spicy foods or to enjoy on its own.

Hunter-Gatherer Alehouse

Hunter-Gatherer Alehouse is a must-visit if you’re a fan of craft beer. They take their beer seriously, and it shows in the quality of their brews. 

They also have a great food menu, so you can enjoy a meal while you sample their beers. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to relax and unwind.

Hunter-Gatherer Brewery and Alehouse’s ESB is a classic English-style ale with a slightly sweet, malty flavor and a hint of bitterness. It’s a great beer to pair with fish and chips or other pub fare.

Twisted Spur Brewing

Twisted Spur Brewing is a newer addition to the Columbia craft beer scene, but they’re already making a name for themselves. They have a wide selection of beers on tap, and they’re constantly experimenting with new flavors and styles. They also have a great food menu, so you can enjoy a meal while you sip on your beer.

Steel Hands Brewing

Steel Hands Brewing is a unique brewery that’s worth checking out. They have a huge outdoor area with plenty of seating, making it a great spot to hang out with friends. They also have a wide selection of beers on tap, including some unique and innovative flavors. If you’re looking for a fun and laid-back spot to enjoy a beer, this is a great option.

Steel Hands Brewing’s 803 IPA is a hop lover’s dream. This hazy IPA is bursting with tropical fruit flavors and has a slightly bitter finish. It’s a great beer to sip on a hot summer day.

Savage Craft Ale Works

Savage Craft Ale Works is a brewery that’s known for its experimental and innovative beers. They’re constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with beer, and the results are always impressive. 

They also have a great outdoor area with plenty of seating, making it a great spot to hang out and enjoy a beer on a sunny day.

Brewery	Food Menu	Outdoor Seating
River Rat	Full menu	Yes
Columbia Craft	Limited menu	Yes, dog-friendly
Hunter-Gatherer	Great food menu	Yes
Twisted Spur	Full menu	Limited
Steel Hands	Limited menu	Yes
Savage Craft	Limited menu	Yes

As you can see, each of these breweries has something unique to offer. Whether you’re looking for classic brews or innovative new flavors, there’s a brewery in Columbia that’s perfect for you. So grab some friends, head out to one of these top breweries, and enjoy a cold beer in the heart of South Carolina.

Understanding Columbia’s Craft Beer Scene

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Columbia, SC, is a great place to explore. With a growing brewery community, this city has a lot to offer. Here’s what you need to know about Columbia’s craft beer scene:

Craft Beer Culture in Columbia

Columbia’s craft beer culture is thriving, with numerous breweries, brew-pubs, and taprooms scattered throughout the city. From small, independent breweries to large, well-established ones, there’s something for everyone.

Unique Brews

One of the things that set Columbia’s craft beer scene apart is the creativity and experimentation of its brewers. You’ll find unique brews that you won’t find anywhere else, with flavors that range from traditional to bold and unexpected.

Local Ingredients

Many Columbia brewers use locally sourced ingredients to create their brews. This not only supports local farmers and businesses but also gives the beer a unique flavor that reflects the region’s character.

Affordable Prices

Compared to other cities, the cost of living in Columbia is relatively low, and that includes the cost of craft beer. You’ll find that many breweries offer affordable prices, making it easy to try new-to-you brews without breaking the bank.

Brewery Experiences

When it comes to brewery experiences in Columbia, SC, there are a variety of options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a relaxing atmosphere or a lively spot with live music and games, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the experiences you can expect when visiting the best breweries in Columbia.

Tap and View

Many of the breweries in Columbia offer a taproom where you can sample their beers and watch the brewing process in action. This is a great opportunity to learn about the different types of beer and how they are made. Some breweries even offer tours of their facilities, giving you an up-close look at the brewing process.

Beer Garden and Outdoor Seating

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a cold beer and some fresh air, many of the breweries in Columbia have outdoor seating areas and beer gardens. These areas are perfect for enjoying a sunny day or a cool evening with friends.

Live Music and Games

Some breweries in Columbia offer live music and games, making them a great spot for a night out with friends. Whether you are looking to play a game of cornhole or listen to some local musicians, these breweries have you covered.

Ale House and In-House Kitchen

If you are looking for a bite to eat with your beer, many of the breweries in Columbia have in-house kitchens serving up delicious food. From classic pub fare to more upscale options, there is something for everyone. Some breweries even have full-service ale houses where you can enjoy a meal and a beer all in one place.

Picnic Tables and Umbrellas

For a more casual experience, many of the breweries in Columbia have picnic tables and umbrellas set up outside. This is a great option for families or groups looking to enjoy a laid-back afternoon with some cold beers.

Local Flavors and Hometown Pride

Many of the breweries in Columbia pride themselves on using local ingredients and showcasing the flavors of the region. This is a great way to experience the unique tastes and traditions of Columbia while enjoying a cold beer.

Pedal Parlor

For a unique brewery experience, consider a pedal parlor tour. These tours take you on a pedal-powered vehicle to multiple breweries in the area, allowing you to experience the best of Columbia’s craft beer scene all in one day.

Food Pairings at Breweries

When you’re enjoying a cold beer at a brewery, it’s always a good idea to pair it with some delicious food. Many breweries in Columbia, SC offer a variety of food options to complement their brews.

If you’re big into beer, I highly suggest noshing along at some of these breweries. But if you’re a foodie, check out some of the best restaurants in Columbia for a real gastronomic treat.

Here are some popular food pairings to try at breweries:

Wings and Beer

Wings and beer are a classic combination that never gets old. Many breweries in Columbia, SC offer wings on their menu, and they pair perfectly with a cold beer. Some breweries even have special sauces or rubs that are made with their own beer. For example, at Columbia Craft Brewing Company, you can try their beer-infused hot sauce on their wings.

While those wings are great, they don’t compare to the best wings in Columbia!

Pizza and Beer

Pizza and beer is another classic pairing that is always a hit. Many breweries offer pizza on their menu, and it’s a great option for sharing with friends. At Hunter-Gatherer, you can enjoy their wood-fired pizza while sipping on one of their craft beers.

Nachos and Beer

Nachos are a crowd-pleaser and they pair well with a cold beer. Many breweries offer nachos on their menu, and they are a great option for sharing. At Twisted Spur, you can try their twisted nachos with all the toppings.

Salads and Beer

If you’re looking for a lighter option, a salad can be a great choice to pair with your beer. Many breweries offer salads on their menu, and they can be a refreshing complement to a hoppy IPA or a crisp lager. At Savage Craft Ale Works, you can try their kale salad with a side of their beer cheese dip.

Burgers and Beer

Burgers and beer are a classic American pairing. Many breweries offer burgers on their menu, and they can be a hearty option to pair with a bold stout or porter. At Columbia Craft Brewing Company, you can try their signature burger with a side of their beer-battered fries.

Tacos and Beer

Tacos and beer are a fun and flavorful pairing. Many breweries offer tacos on their menu, and they can be a great option for sharing. At River Rat, you can try their tacos with a side of their homemade salsa.

If tacos are your thing (like they are mine), then you’ve gotta branch out and check out the best taco spots in Columbia.

When you’re at a brewery, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations on what foods pair well with their beers. Many breweries have staff that are knowledgeable about their menu and can help you make the perfect pairing.

Family-Friendly Breweries

If you’re looking to spend some quality time with your family while enjoying some great beer, Columbia has plenty of family-friendly breweries to choose from. These breweries offer a fun and relaxed atmosphere for adults and kids alike.

One of the best family-friendly breweries in Columbia is the Hunter-Gatherer. This brewery offers a full range of beers on tap as well as appetizers, pizzas, and sandwiches.

They even offer gluten-free crust and vegan cheese for those with dietary restrictions. The Hangar has a great outdoor area and plenty of space for kids to play.

If you’re looking for a brewery with a little more space, check out River Rat Brewery.

This brewery has a large outdoor area with plenty of seating and games for the kids to enjoy. They also offer a great selection of beers and food options.

Breweries in Surrounding Areas

If you’re looking to venture outside of Columbia for some great beer, there are several breweries in the surrounding areas worth checking out. Here are a few options:

Brewery Name	Location	Highlights
Old Mill Brewpub	Lexington, SC	Award-winning brews, historic location
Bierkeller Columbia	Lexington, SC	German-style beers, outdoor beer garden
Hazelwood Brewing	Lexington, SC	Family-friendly atmosphere, locally sourced ingredients
WECO Bottle and Biergarten	West Columbia, SC	Wide beer selection, indoor/outdoor seating
Angry Fish Brewing Co	Lexington, SC	Ocean-themed beers, outdoor seating

Old Mill Brewpub in Lexington is a great option for those looking for a historic location and award-winning brews. The brewery is housed in a restored textile mill from the 1800s and offers a range of beers, from traditional styles to experimental brews.

Bierkeller Columbia in Lexington specializes in German-style beers and has a great outdoor beer garden. The brewery also frequently hosts events, including live music and food trucks.

Hazelwood Brewing in Lexington has a family-friendly atmosphere and focuses on using locally sourced ingredients. The brewery has a range of beers, from light and fruity to heavy and complex.

WECO Bottle and Biergarten in West Columbia has a wide beer selection and both indoor and outdoor seating options. The brewery also frequently hosts events, including trivia nights and live music.

Angry Fish Brewing Co in Lexington has a fun ocean-themed atmosphere and a great outdoor seating area. The brewery specializes in a range of beers, from light and refreshing to heavy and complex.

Conclusion

Columbia, SC, with its burgeoning craft beer scene, has become a haven for beer aficionados. From the bustling Main Street to the serene views from a rooftop bar, the city offers a blend of flavors and experiences.

Whether you’re sipping on a coffee lager at the Columbia Craft Brewing Company after a game at Williams Brice Stadium or enjoying snacks on a Sunday brunch at the River Rat Brewery, the city’s diverse offerings never disappoint.

The likes of Hunter-Gatherer Alehouse and Hazelwood Brewing further enrich the vista of Columbia’s beer landscape.

As the sun sets over downtown Columbia, one can’t help but appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation that defines the city’s craft beer scene.

Columbia ensures every day feels like a celebration, whether it’s a laid-back Saturday or a bustling Friday. So, next time you’re in town, make sure to explore the myriad flavors that Columbia’s breweries have to offer. Cheers!

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