The Ultimate Guide to the Best Breweries in Portland Oregon

Portland, Oregon, is often referred to as the “Beer Capital of the World” and “Beervana”…for good reason. With over 70 breweries in the greater Portland area, the city boasts an unparalleled craft beer scene that caters to every palate. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or funky sour ales, Portland has something for you. Here’s a curated list of the best breweries in the area, each offering unique brews and experiences that make them stand out.

With so many outstanding breweries in the area, it was difficult to narrow it down to just ten, but here’s our list of the best breweries in Portland, OR.

Great Notion Brewing – NW Portland & NE Alberta

Great Notion has revolutionized the Portland craft beer scene with its innovative approach to brewing. They specialize in hazy IPAs, decadent stouts, and fruit-forward sours that push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. Their Double Stack, an imperial stout brewed with maple syrup and coffee, is definitely worth trying.

Their taprooms offer a cozy, laid back atmosphere with a menu that pairs perfectly with their beers, including gourmet sandwiches and loaded tots. Their Alberta Arts District location features a spacious outdoor beer garden and a cozy taproom, perfect for enjoying some of the most hyped beers in the Northwest.

Signature Beers: Double Stack (Imperial Breakfast Stout), Juice Jr. (Hazy IPA), Ripe (IPA), Blueberry Muffin (Sour Ale)
Website: https://greatnotion.com/

Breakside Brewery – Slabtown & Milwaukie

Breakside Brewery has consistently been recognized as one of the best breweries in the country, winning numerous awards for their diverse range of beers. Their Wanderlust IPA is a standout, offering a perfect balance of hop bitterness and tropical fruit flavors. Breakside’s commitment to experimentation means you’ll always find something new on tap, from barrel-aged sours to unique collaborations with other breweries.

Signature Beers: Wanderlust IPA, Breakside IPA, Salted Caramel Stout
Website: https://breakside.com/

Upright Brewing – NE Portland

Upright Brewing is a hidden gem in the Portland beer scene, specializing in farmhouse ales and traditional European styles. Their focus on open fermentation and barrel aging results in complex, flavorful beers that are both refreshing and intriguing.

Upright’s tasting room is located in the basement of the Leftbank Building, giving it a speakeasy vibe that adds to the charm of the experience.

Signature Beers: Four Play (Farmhouse Ale), Engelberg Pilsner, Fantasia (Sour Ale)
Website: https://www.uprightbrewing.com/

Ex Novo Brewing Co. – NE Portland & Beaverton

Ex Novo Brewing Co. is not only known for its exceptional beers but also for its philanthropic mission. A portion of their profits goes to support various charitable causes, making every pint you drink a contribution to a better world.

Their Eliot IPA, named after the neighborhood where their original brewery is located, is a local favorite with its balanced hop profile and crisp finish.

Signature Beers: The Most Interesting Lager in the World, Eliot IPA, Perle Haggard Pilsner
Website: https://exnovobrew.com/

Steeplejack Brewing Co. – Portland & Hillsboro

Steeplejack Brewing is a feast for the senses. Its main location is housed inside a beautifully restored 111 year old church. This brewery offers an unforgettable ambiance alongside a stellar beer lineup. The jaw-dropping venue, complete with stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings, combined with expertly crafted beers, makes Steeplejack a unique experience.

Their diverse menu includes traditional styles alongside more experimental creations, earning them the Best New Brewery award at the 2022 Oregon Beer Awards.

Signature Beers: Roaming Nobles (Pilsner), Northwest IPA, Belgian Style Pale Ale
Website: https://www.steeplejackbeer.com/

Ecliptic Brewing – N Mississippi Ave Portland

Founded by John Harris, a veteran brewer with a storied history in the Oregon beer scene, Ecliptic Brewing combines a passion for astronomy with a love of craft beer. Their beers are inspired by the cosmos, resulting in a celestial lineup that is both creative and delicious. Ecliptic’s taproom features a spacious patio and a menu of elevated pub fare, making it a great spot to enjoy a beer under the stars.

Signature Beers: Orbiter IPA, Capella Porter, Carina Peach Sour Ale
Website: https://eclipticbrewing.com/

Baerlic Brewing Co. – SE Portland & NE Alberta

Baerlic Brewing Co. (pronounced “bear-lick”) is a neighborhood brewery that prides itself on crafting approachable, high-quality beers. Their Dad Beer! is a crisp, easy-drinking lager that has become a local favorite. While they brew a variety of styles, they’ve recently gained major attention for their hop-forward IPAs and their Chill Helles Lager, a local favorite.

Baerlic’s taprooms are designed to feel like an extension of your living room, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages you to stay awhile.

Signature Beers: Dad Beer! (Lager), Barley Brown’s IPA, Dark Thoughts (Stout)
Website: https://www.baerlicbrewing.com/

Grand Fir Brewing – Downtown Portland

One of Portland’s newer breweries, Grand Fir Brewing has already made a massive impact. Opened in 2022, this brewery is run by Whitney Burnside, an award winning brewmaster with an impressive résumé. Grand Fir quickly racked up four Oregon Beer Awards and three World Beer Cup medals, proving their dedication to exceptional brewing. If you’re looking for a rising star in Portland’s beer scene, Grand Fir should be on your radar.

Signature Beers: Honky Tonk Nighthawk (Pilsner), Crooked Tree (IPA), Widowmaker (Triple IPA)
Website: https://www.grandfirbrewing.com/

Wayfinder Beer – SE Portland

For those who appreciate a perfectly executed lager, Wayfinder Beer is the place to be. While they brew a variety of styles, their crispy, clean lagers are the true stars. Their attention to detail in the brewing process has earned them a reputation as one of the best lager producers in the region. They also won Best Labels/Branding at the 2024 Oregon Beer Awards, proving they know how to make both great beer and great design.

Wayfinder’s taproom features a large, communal beer hall with a menu of hearty German inspired dishes, making it a great spot for gathering with friends.

Signature Beers: Helltown Lager, Relapse IPA, Czech Pilsner, Imperial Bock
Website: https://www.wayfinder.beer/

Deschutes Brewery Portland Pub – NW Portland

While Deschutes Brewery is based in Bend, Oregon, their Portland pub is a must-visit for any beer lover. They offer a wide range of beers, from their classic Black Butte Porter to experimental small batch brews that you won’t find in stores. The Portland pub features a spacious outdoor patio and a menu of locally sourced, seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with their beers.

Signature Beers: Black Butte Porter, Fresh Squeezed IPA, Mirror Pond Pale Ale
Website: https://deschutesbrewery.com/pages/portland-public-house

Bottom Line

Portland’s craft beer scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Each brewery on this list offers something unique, whether it’s innovative brewing techniques, a commitment to quality, or a passion for giving back to the community. So, grab a pint (or three), explore the city, and discover why Portland is truly Beervana.

Did we miss your favorite Portland brewery? Let us know in the comments!