Explore Lodi’s Buzzing Beer Scene

When people think of Lodi, wine is usually the first thing that comes to mind, and for good reason.

But have you tried a craft beer from one of our breweries or taprooms? Lodi’s local brews are a must-try experience for visitors and locals alike. Downtown Lodi alone is home to a collection of breweries and taprooms you can easily explore on foot. Each one offers its own flavor and personality. Below you will find a handful of fun spots to bookmark the next time you are craving a cold glass of beer.

Lodi Beer Company

A staple of downtown Lodi, this beloved brewery and restaurant invites you to sip house-brewed beers alongside crave-worthy bites (don’t skip the ribs!). The cozy downtown space is as versatile as it gets: come casual with the family, plan a relaxed date night, or bring your work crew for after-hours pints. Lagers and ales are poured crisp and cold, waiting for you to pull up a chair. Family Friendly – Dogs allowed on patio.

Our favorite brew on the menu: School Street Brown, an English-style ale with toasty malty notes, perfect for fall and winter.

Side Hustle Beer Co.

Small-batch creativity is the name of the game at Side Hustle Brew Co. This cozy taproom pours experimental beers that change with the seasons, keeping things fresh and fun. It is the perfect hideaway for trying something new, chatting with the brewers and enjoying a laid-back vibe. Bring a friend, sample a flight and discover why Side Hustle has become a favorite stop on Lodi’s beer trail. Dog friendly.

Our favorite brew on the menu is Hustle Juice, a juicy pale that smells like citrus and tropical fruit and has a velvety mouthfeel. It’s a flavor bomb for your senses and so easy to drink!

Idol Beer Works

From tangy IPAs to crisp lagers and even alcohol-free kombucha, IDOL Beer Works covers every craving. Owner Grant Hamilton has built the taproom around community and craft, and you feel it the moment you walk through the door. Come for the standout brews and stay for the energy. Music on the patio, line dancing, and a packed calendar of fun events make this a must-visit spot for fun. Family friendly – dogs allowed on patio

Our favorite brew on the menu: A seasonal favorite, the B.O.B Blood Orange Beer is a burst of delicious citrus kolsch.

Brix & Hops

Like the fun play on words suggests in the name, Brix & Hops offers a variety of beers on tap and by the can, in addition to a selection of wine. The best of both worlds! Expect evening fun like trivia night and bingo for friendly competition or enjoy live music while relaxing with some brews.

Our favorite brew on the menu: The Cali Creamin’ Nitro is a creamy ale that won’t give you that “I just had one too many” feeling. Nitrogen is infused in the process, leaving tiny bubbles that give this ale a creamy mouthfeel.

Five Window Beer Co.

This buzzy brewery serves up a mix of hoppy IPAs, smooth ales and a menu full of irresistible bites. Think smash burger fries, wood-fired pizzas and plenty more to share. It is also a go-to spot for live music and a welcoming atmosphere. Bring your friends, your family or even your four-legged companion. Five Window Beer Company has everything you need for a great time. Family friendly – dogs allowed on patio.

Our favorite brew on the menu: The Rusty Red Ale is a favorite any time of the year! It is smooth with a bold mouthfeel, making it great to order with one of the delicious pizza options on the menu.

Woodbridge Uncorked

This tasting room serves brews and wine in a historic brick building located in Woodbridge. Showcasing the best of both worlds from grapes to hops, this establishment features a rotating list of beer on tap to choose from. What’s even better? Woodbridge Uncorked also hosts “tap takeovers” where different breweries from outside of the region showcase their brews on tap, often accompanied by food and fun.

Our favorite brew on the menu: The beer list at Woodbridge Uncorked is always evolving, with a rotating menu that changes often. This is the perfect spot to lean on the tasting room team for guidance. Their recommendations never miss, and part of the fun is discovering a new favorite you might not have picked on your own.

The Dancing Fox

Enjoying a crisp brew on the garden patio at The Dancing Fox while people-watching along School Street is hard to beat. Whether you settle into the lush greenery outside or relax inside the old-world tavern-style restaurant, you will find mouthwatering beers alongside a menu packed with delicious bites such as sandwiches, sliders, house-made sausages, pizza and more. Family friendly – dogs allowed on patio.

Our favorite brew on the menu: Down the Rabbit Hole is a punchy American IPA that has a tropical twist, perfect for a crisp day on their patio with a pretzel!

West Oak Nosh

This downtown gastropub offers an impressive selection of brews ranging from German classics to local favorites. Want to sample a little bit of everything? Order a beer flight and taste your way through the menu. It is perfect for anyone trying beer for the first time, looking to explore new styles or simply fighting FOMO over what they did not order. Pair your pint with a warm pretzel, schnitzel or other playful German-inspired bites from the kitchen for a true taste adventure. Family friendly – dogs allowed.

Our favorite brew on the menu: Offshoot Relaxed Hazey IPA , which has been on draft since 2018 has been a fan favorite for its crisp mouthfeel with citrus for easy drinking.

Need more inspiration? Check out our full brewery list here! The next time you decide to discover Lodi, add a brewery crawl to your plans and see why Lodi’s beers are quickly becoming as beloved as our wines. Cheers!

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Natalie Morlino

Author

Natalie Morlino

Community Engagement & Communications Manager

Natalie is a natural storyteller eager to make authentic connections with her community. An avid world traveler, she’s always ready to pull up a barstool at a cozy restaurant, meet new people, and spot a Lodi wine on the menu. Since trading city life for wine country, you’ll find her in Lodi shopping the farmers market, hunting for antiques, or exploring a new winery with her fiancé, son, and their pug — glass of Zin in hand, of course.

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