Brewpubs

A brewpub is an establishment that combines a brewery with a public house, selling beer that is brewed on the premises alongside food and other beverages. The defining feature is on-site beer production, typically in small batches, with a rotating selection that may include core house beers, seasonals, and experimental brews. Customers usually order at a bar and dine at tables or a counter, with beer tasting flights often offered.

History and scope vary by country, but brewpubs grew in prominence during the craft beer movements in the United States in the late 20th century and later spread worldwide. They draw on European and North American traditions of brewing in or near a pub setting. Many brewpubs emphasize freshness and local identity, and some operate limited distribution programs to supply nearby venues, while others focus primarily on in-house sales.

Operations and licensing differ by jurisdiction but generally require a combination of brewery and retail licenses to serve beer on the premises. Production is typically modest relative to standalone production breweries, and the business model often relies on the synergy between food sales and beer sales. Some brewpubs offer tours, tastings, or brewing demonstrations, and many feature seasonal or experimental taps to attract repeat visitors. Packaging for off-site sale, if allowed, is usually limited.

In the broader beer industry, brewpubs are distinct from microbreweries that primarily distribute beer to other venues. They contribute to local economies and craft beer ecosystems by providing hands-on production, educational experiences, and direct consumer engagement.