Best breweries Bend Oregon
Best Beer Bend

Post Overview: Local rounds up the best breweries in Bend, Oregon

You simply can’t live in Oregon without becoming a beer enthusiast in due time. I’ve lived in Oregon my whole life and it wasn’t until the past six years that I started to better understand the nuances of our state’s greatest export: craft beer.

I kid, I kid. I’m sure our greatest export is a microchip or something. But hey, I’d take craft beer over a laptop any day of the week.

Back to the beer. I currently live in Portland and am absolutely spoiled for choice in the craft beer department. I spent two years exploring the various breweries our city has to offer and came up with a list of my 15 favorite breweries. It was only time that I branched out and got my grubby little hands on the best beer in Bend

Alas, after months of visiting the charming town, I was able to draft a list of the best breweries in Bend, Oregon. You may agree with some of these while disagreeing with others. Good on you!

I’m always down for a conversation around strong IPAs and delicate ales. Try me in the comments (but I can’t speak for what other locals will chime in with, so heads up). Now let’s get to it.

Here’s a quick roundup of my favorite Bend breweries (in alphabetical order), hope you enjoy!

Beer tastes better after a hike, you may enjoy reading: 20 Jaw-Dropping Hikes in Bend, Oregon

Best Breweries in Bend, Oregon

#15. Worthy Brewing

No matter who you are, you’re worthy of getting a great beer. Yep, that’s actually the mantra at Worthy Brewing.

Committed to creating an acceptance environment, sustainability practices (this Bend brewery is solar-powered!) and making the best beers in Bend, this place is a gem.

Having opened in 2013, Worthy Brewing is also one of the oldest breweries in Bend. They pride themselves on serving seasonal beer, so the menu rotates with the changing weather (and local ingredients).

As with almost all Oregon breweries, Worthy offers some exceptional IPAs, but it also makes a pilsner, stout, and Pacific ale. I like to nibble while I drink (adulthood, you know?), and Worthy Brewing has some great menu options.

The primary brewery is awesome, but they also have a burger joint in central Bend called Worthy Brewing Beers & Burgers. Highly recommend if you want a more casual atmosphere with your Bend brews.

Best Breweries Bend Oregon | Image Courtesy Worthy Brewing

#14. Spider City Brewing

Some Bend breweries are all about the vibe, while others — like Spider City Brewing — are laser-focused on one mission.

If I had to guess, the focus at Spider City Brewing is offering an impressive selection of craft beers so tantalizing they can make any amateur (*raises hand) want to learn all the technical terms associated with the beer world.

Spider City is relatively new, having opened its doors in 2018. Built with two tasting rooms, one of which has rotating food trucks so you can absorb all the beer with some tasty eats. This is one of the best breweries in Bend thanks to the extensive collection of stouts, IPAs, sours, and German-style beers.

If you’re curious about the name, here’s the story I was told: Apparently, the founders used to brew in their garage, which they nicknamed “spider city” because of … you guessed it … spiders. Lots and lots of spiders.

Alrighty, moving right along.

#13. Monkless Belgian Ales

If you’re searching for memorable Belgian ales, make a beeline for Monkless Belgian Ales, a rustic restaurant and tap room specializing in traditional European style beer.

This award-winning Bend brewery is a study in perfection. Focusing on making the best Belgian ales in Bend, the only thing missing are the monks. Hence the name, I guess.

Monks aside, the ales are brewed in the traditional Belgian style to be accessible and smooth. The yeast must work its magic and we all know there’s no rushing perfection. Striving to be authentic and innovative (no easy feat) has earned Monkless a place on any list of the best breweries in Bend, Oregon.

If I may offer a suggestion: order the award-winning Peppercorn Imperial Wit (a citrusy Belgian Imperial Wit with boldness unusual for such a light-bodied beer, ends with notes of peppercorn).

Hungry? Good. On brand with the European vibes, the brewery serves Belgian-inspired cuisine bratwurst and Belgian Frites. It’s a great time all around (these ales are something else!).

Best Bend Breweries — Image courtesy Monkless Belgian Ales in Bend

#12. GoodLife Brewing Co.

In terms of Bend breweries with best outdoor patios, GoodLife Brewing Co. can’t be beat.

Founded in 2011, this gem has fast become one of the best breweries in Bend. But fret not, it isn’t resting on its laurels. Having celebrated 10 years in the business, they’re as committed as ever to craft some of the best beer in Bend.

The folks at GoodLife love to brew a good IPA, so if you love pale ales, you may find your little slice of heaven here. Truly, these are some of the best IPAs in Bend.

Likewise, their Bierhall churns out some delectable pub fare. With an exciting seasonal menu on constant rotation, you’re bound to find something new on the menu every time you visit. Don’t miss the live music on Tuesdays, dog days on Wednesday and peirogis on Sundays.

Bend breweries with outdoor patios — Image Courtesy GoodLife Brewing Co.

#11. Deschutes Brewery

We can’t talk about the best breweries in Bend without mentioning the O.G. Founded in 1988, not only is Deschutes Brewery the oldest brewery in Bend, it’s still churning out some of the best beer in the city.

Overlooking the Deschutes River, this popular Bend brewery offer a wide array of beers that span the gamut. Whether you’re in the market for pales ales, porters or IPAs, Deschutes is guaranteed to satisfy.

In a lot of ways, Bend’s thriving beer scene can be traced back to Deschutes. Many of the brewmasters at the helm of the best Bend breweries got their start here. Thankfully, Deschutes has a “community over competition” approach and supports local entrepreneurs.

Local’s Tip: One of the coolest features about this beloved Bend brewery is that they offer tours. You’ll learn about the history and have an opportunity to tour the massive facility. It’s a great experience all around.

#10. Sunriver Brewing Company

A pillar of Bend’s beer community, Sunriver Brewing Company has been gracing locals with exceptional brews since 2012. These award-winning craft beers in Bend have become so popular that the brewery has spread to four locations.

Helmed by renowned brew-master Brett Thomas, crafting these exciting concoctions is a team affair. Everyone seems to get along flawlessly (some of the kindest staff you’ll come across) so the ship runs smoothly. Don’t just take my word for it, their necks are sore from the weight of heavy medals (of which, they have many).

Did you know? This Bend brewery was awarded the coveted Small Brewing Company & Small Brewing Company Brewer of the year by the Great American Beer Festival® in 2017.

The original location can be found in — you guessed it — Sunriver, Oregon. But they opened a Bend pub shortly after. The impressive menu features beers that span the gamut, from hazy IPAs to velvety smooth ales.

Pair your pint with some inspired pub fare (an elevated twist on classics) and see why locals flock to this patio every time the temps exceed 45°F (this is Oregon, after all).

#9. Boss Rambler Beer Club

Opened in 2018, Boss Rambler may be the new kid on the block, but that doesn’t stop them from being one of the best Bend breweries. If anything, it makes their massive fan base all the more impressive.

Founded by a group of family and friends, the draw at this popular Bend brewery are the hazy’s, which keep folks coming from all part of town.

Make no mistake, the beer is the star of the show at this beloved Bend brewery, but the vibe is equally as impressive. The founders were keen to create a space where locals (and visitors) would love to hang out or catch up with friends.

Mission success. The space is awesome, I’d even say this is one of the Bend breweries with best outdoor patios. So invite your friends and don’t rush the fun, it’s all about the beer and vibe at this easy-going locale.

Boss Rambler Brewery in Bend — Image Courtesy Boss Rambler Beer Club

#8. Boneyard Beer

Opened in 2010 (a pioneer of sorts), Boneyard Beer has an enthusiastic fan base that is convinced this is the best beer in Bend. Fighting words, I know – but it’s hard to disagree.

Housed in an auto body shop, the name comes from the owner’s “boneyard” of old brewing equipment he collected from 13 different breweries around the country. Alongside two friends, Clay and Melodee Storey, the three friends brewed their first beer in May.

The rest, as they say, is history. Today, this is one of the best breweries in Bend, and with a menu boasting more than 20 beers, you’re bound to find something to love!

#7. Bevel Craft Brewing

What do Frisbee golf and beer have in common? Apparently, a craft brewery in Bend.

Bevel Craft Brewing was founded by two disc golf world champions in 2019. In fact, the name of this Bend brewery comes from the beveled edge of a Frisbee (just in case you were wondering).

As with most other breweries in Bend mentioned on this list, IPAs are the main course at Bevel. But fret not, there’s a ales sprinkled in for good measure. As far as food, Bevel has a pretty welcoming patio with a rotating list of different food trucks offering cuisine from around the world.

Another notable aspect of Bevel is that it has its own beer league, so if you like getting perks for drinking regularly (feels kinda odd to say that, yeah?), there’s no reason not to join the fun.

Bevel Brewery Bend — Image Courtesy Bevel Craft Brewing

#6. Bend Brewing Company

As you have likely noticed, most of the best breweries in Bend were founded in the early 2010s. However, Bend Brewing Co. is the second-oldest brewery, dating way back to 1995 (what were you even doing in 1995?).

Having been in the city for so long, the brewmaster at Bend Brewing Company knows a lot about making the best craft beers in Bend.

IPAs shine the brightest, but this Bend brewery also makes an incredible golden ale and even a coffee porter.

In addition to serving some of the most creative beer in Bend, this kitchen churns out pub favorites like pretzels, sandwiches, burgers, and fish & chips. Making this a perfect spot on a warm summer day (there’s a great outdoor patio and lawn for hanging out).

Another selling point is that this brewery is on the Deschutes River, so you can enjoy the water while sipping a pint and munching on some fries.

#5. Immersion Brewing

Located in the charming Old Mill District, Immersion Brewing is often labeled one of the best dog friendly breweries in Bend. The outdoor patio is spacious but usually filled to the brim on warm summer days.

Family-owned and damn proud of it, the garage-turned-brewery is all about good beer and vibes. Turns out I’m not the only one that considers this one of the best breweries in Bend, it won Small Craft Brewery of the Year in 2020.

The stars of the show are hazy (and I mean haaaazy) IPAs and sensational sours. You can’t go wrong with anything you order because these folks know what they’re doing. Pair your pint with some pub fare and you’ll be looking up homes for sale in Bend in no time.

#4. 10 Barrel Brewing Co.

Founded in 2006, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. probably needs no introduction. This is one of the most popular breweries in Bend, but not without reason.

First, the tasting room is an all-around excellent place for hanging out and catching up with friends after a hike. There are two locations – one on the west side and another on the east. 10 Barrel offers a vast selection of beers, but you can also sample wines, sours, and even cocktails.

When it comes to food, this Bend brewery offers a delicious (and generous) seasonal menu. I once had a summer salad here that I can’t get out of my mind 2+ years later. Don’t sleep on the pizza, it never fails to hit the spot. I also really love the berry cheesecake, which is a perfect accent to the end of a fantastic meal.

10 Barrel Brewing Bend — Best Breweries Bend, Oregon | Image Courtesy 10 Barrel Brewing Co.

#3. Bridge 99 Brewery

Bridge 99 Brewery in Bend bills itself as a small batch brewery but you wouldn’t know that based on the wild success. Opened in 2013 (seems like 2013 was a banner year for breweries in Bend), the folks behind Bridge 99 Brewing keep exciting the masses with their innovative techniques and creative beers.

What started as a small-batch operation with a two-barrel brewing system has expanded to a 15-barrel system by 2018. Turns out locals couldn’t get enough of the good stuff!

This is one of the best breweries in Bend for pale ales. It seems to the be their specialty, but you won’t want to sleep on the stouts and hefeweizens either.

If you’re feeling hungry, Bridge 99 also serves artisan-style pizzas to keep the party lasting longer. The pizzas are top-notch, which is to be expected from folks that don’t compromise on quality.

Finally, what’s with the name? Apparently, it’s a nod to a bridge in Camp Sherman referred to as “Bridge 99” and since that name (conveniently) fits with the old song “99 bottles of beer on the wall,” it can be argued that the name picked itself.

Local’s Note: I’m especially fond of this Bend brewery’s commitment to sustainability and feel it warrants mention. Keen on reducing waste and employing sustainable practices, every step of the brewing process is considered with the environment in mind. For example, rather than tossing the spent grains into a landfill, the grains are shipped off to a local ostrich rancher to be used on his farm.

#2. The Ale Apothecary

If you’re on the hunt for the best sour beers in Bend, make A pilgrimage to the Ale Apothecary. This is the only sour brewery in Bend, and it focuses on sourcing ingredients exclusively from Oregon farms and forests.

In this way, every libation is a taste of the Pacific Northwest. Nestled in the forest, visiting this Bend brewery feels like being invited to a friend’s cozy cabin in the woods.

As with so many of the best brewers in Bend, the well-curated selection of beers changes regularly, so you never know what to expect. The brewmaster finds inspiration from local ingredients and determines what to make based on what he can get his (golden) hands on.

#1. Crux Fermentation Project

No list of the best breweries in Bend would be complete without mentioning Crux Fermentation Project. This one gem is reason enough to drive to Bend for the weekend.

The secret behind their success are the numerous unique brewing techniques (open fermentation, barrel mashing) they’ve been perfecting since opening in 2012. The belief behind this operation is simple: there’s a beer out there for everyone. The running joke is that if you can’t find a beer to love at Crux then you may not like beer, period.

The tasting room is beautiful, but it’s the menu that catches the eye. With a plethora of tantalizing options, it’s hard to peel away. Boasting tons of ales, lagers and experimental beers, don’t rush the experience and give yourself some time to get acquainted with the menu.

If all else fails, ask the kind staff. They’re bound to have a recommendation up their sleeve. As for food, small bites are available but the food carts outside may be more filling. Live music plays weekly, bring some friends and plan to linger.

Between serving the best beer in Bend, offering epic mountain views and playing host to a welcoming vibe, there’s no doubt that Crux Fermentation Project is one of the best breweries in Bend. But don’t just take my word for it, go see for yourself!

Here at Crux Fermentation Project, we are a brewer-owned and operated community committed to brewing perfection and fermentative experimentation of the highest quality. From our one-of-a-kind brewing facilities to our culture of true craft, everything we endeavor to do is driven by our authentic pursuit of the next great beer… or whiskey… or wine… you get the idea.
Crux Fermentation Project

P.S. Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio, making this one of the best dog friendly breweries in Bend.

Best breweries in Bend Oregon — Image Courtesy Crux Fermentation Project | Best breweries Bend

Best Beer Bend (Honorable Mentions)

Oblivion Brewing

Like with most good things, the story of Oblivion Brewing starts with a dream and a prayer. Opened in 2013, the focus is simple. The folks behind this beloved brewery in Bend strive to make the best beer in Bend.

Pop over and sample some of the best beers in Bend being served in an industrial-style setting.

It’s hard not to enjoy yourself at Oblivion, I mean, you’re here to drink. This tasting room is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, and you can fill an entire growler for only $5 on Fridays, so I highly recommend bringing your growler once you determine which beer is your favorite (I like the Oblivious Blonde or Road Ryder Red).

Craft Kitchen and Brewery

When comparing the best breweries in Bend, you can pay attention to the beer offerings as well as the brewery’s awards. Craft Kitchen and Brewery is one of the most well-loved breweries in the city, earning recognition for tons of publications over the years. .

Overall, Craft is a great all-around brewery, thanks to its delicious menu, extensive beer list, and friendly vibes. Craft was also mentioned as one of the best takeout spots in Bend, so if you like grabbing your beer and food on the go, this Bend brewery will fit the bill.

As far as beer, Craft runs the gamut with stouts, pale ales, German beers, and even a hard cider for those who like a little sweetness on the tongue.