If your familiarity with Mexican beers doesn’t extend beyond Pacifico or Tecate, it’s time to introduce yourself to northern Baja’s blossoming craft beer scene. We’ve picked out a few of our favorite tasting rooms to help jumpstart your Baja craft beer explorations. ¡Salud!
Mamut Brewery Co.
(Tijuana)
Information: www.facebook.com/MamutBreweryCo, tel: 011-52-664-685-0137
Why We Love It: Their rooftop patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a flight of beer while taking in Tijuana and all its gritty splendor. They serve pizza if you get hungry.
Beer to Try: Wit Bier
DBTC Insider Tip: Entrance is through an unmarked doorway leading up to a staircase on 3rd Street between Ave. Revolución and Constitución.
Norte Brewing Co.
(Tijuana)
Information: www.nortebrewing.com, tel: 011-52-664-638-4891
Why We Love It: This brewery has some of the best views in Tijuana, looking over downtown TJ and the famous arch. Housed inside an old strip club, the beers have names like “Escort” and “Cougar.”
Beer to Try: The “Penthouse” IPA
DBTC Insider Tip: On Tap Tuesdays, pints of beer are only $40 pesos. This is also probably the first time you’ll ever go to a brewery accessed through a parking garage.
Wendlandt Cervecería
(Ensenada)
Information: wendlandt.com.mx, tel: 011-52-646-178-2938,
Why We Love It: Wendlandt won the title of Mexico’s Best Brewery in 2015 and it’s easy to understand why. Not only are they one of Baja’s original craft breweries, but their beers are consistently delicious.
Beer to Try: “Foca Parlante” Oatmeal Stout
DBTC Insider Tip: They have two locations in Ensenada. The brewpub located right in downtown Ensenada, opens at 6pm and offers gastropub food in a sophisticated setting. Their actual brewery is located north of town in El Sauzal and is now regularly open to the public Thursday-Sunday, opening early afternoon on the weekends. The more casual setting at the brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Agua Mala
(Ensenada)
Information: aguamala.com.mx, tel: 011-52-646-174-6068
Why We Love It: Set in a collection of shipping containers covered in artwork, not only does this chic brewery have an incredible indoor/outdoor setting (with views of the ocean!) but the beers are some of the best coming out of Mexico.
Beer to Try: “Sirena” Pilsner
DBTC Insider Tip: They partner with Deckman’s on a food menu that’s available for order and they also have a regular special collaborations and events with other local businesses. Follow their Facebook page for more information.
Baja Brews
(Ensenada)
Information: www.bajabrews.com, tel: 011-52-646-174-4528
Why We Love It: Technically, this isn’t a brewery, it’s even better. This colectivo is a collective of craft breweries from all over Northern Baja, housed in an old warehouse. This is hands-down the best place to experience the range of craft beers that Baja is making. With about a dozen craft breweries with their own stands, grab a beer and head outside to enjoy the fabulous views right on the Pacific.
Beer to Try: With rotating breweries and beers, it’s impossible to pick just one!
DBTC Insider Tip: This spot is pretty relaxed early in the afternoon evening. As the night goes on, they draw a younger crowd and there’s often live music on the weekends. There are also a few food stalls.
Join our sister company, Baja Test Kitchen, on one of their group tasting tour exploring Tijuana’s vibrant craft beer scene! Book early to ensure your participation. Upcoming tour dates: September 19th & October 7th.