Craft Breweries In Kitchener You Need To Visit
Kitchener, Ontario has quietly become one of Southwestern Ontario’s most exciting destinations for craft beer lovers. The craft breweries in Kitchener often turn a quick stop into an all afternoon (or evening) hangout. If you’re visiting Kitchener for a weekend or planning a brewery hopping road trip, Kitchener’s craft beer scene is well worth the stop.
Brewpubs In Kitchener, Ontario
I admit that I’m not much of a beer drinker. In fact, I typically don’t drink beer at all. But there is something that draws me to brewpubs where I very much enjoy a flight of craft beer. This is especially true after a long hike.
I have been to many of these pubs (if not all of them) and I want to share what I’ve found to be the best craft breweries in Kitchener that you should visit, what I like about each of them, and maybe a tip or two along the way. Hopefully this guide will help you choose your spot to enjoy a beer when you’re visiting my city.
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Short Finger Brewing Co.
Location: 20 Hurst Avenue, Kitchener
Short Finger Brewing Co. is one of the most talked-about breweries in Kitchener, known for pushing boundaries with creative, small-batch beers. Their lineup often includes farmhouse ales, saisons, sours, and barrel-aged brews that appeal to adventurous beer drinkers.
The taproom has a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere, making it a great place to chat with staff and learn more about the brewing process.
What I love about it:
- Innovative and experimental beer styles
- Rotating seasonal releases
- Strong reputation among Ontario craft beer fans
Waterloo Brewing Taphouse: One Of The Best Craft Breweries In Kitchener
Location: 400 Bingemans Center Drive, Kitchener
One of Ontario’s most established breweries, Waterloo Brewing has played a major role in shaping the province’s modern craft beer movement. Their Kitchener taphouse offers a chance to sample flagship beers alongside limited releases in a casual setting.
In addition to fantastic craft beer, they also serve the best pizza and nachos around!
What I love about it:
- the beer! …. and friendly service
- pizza and nachos
- large, open interior and cozy patio
TWB Brewing (Together We’re Bitter)
Location: 300 Mill Street, Kitchener
TWB Brewing is a community-owned brewery that focuses on collaboration and approachability. Their beers range from easy-drinking classics to limited-edition brews created with local businesses and organizations.
This is an ideal stop for both craft beer newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts who appreciate variety and a welcoming vibe.
What I love about it:
- Community-driven ownership model
- Wide selection of approachable craft beers
- Friendly, laid-back taproom
Counterpoint Brewing Company
Location: 1601 Victoria Street North, Kitchener
Counterpoint Brewing Company is a must-visit for those who appreciate well-executed, classic beer styles with a modern twist. Known for consistency and quality, Counterpoint has built a loyal local following.
If you’re looking for a brewery that balances innovation with drinkability, this spot deserves a place on your itinerary.
What I love about it:
- Strong core beer lineup
- Excellent reviews for quality and service
- Easygoing brewery atmosphere
Abe Erb – A Craft Brewery In Kitchener
Location: 151 Charles Street West, Kitchener
ABE ERB is a classic brewpub experience, offering house-brewed beer paired with a full food menu. It’s a great option if you’re looking to combine craft beer with a sit-down meal, as well as a night of fun and socializing while playing a game of corn hole while enjoying a cold craft beer.
Abe Erb has a mix of classic and modern beer. It’s also in a convenient location for visitors staying in Kitchener’s downtown core.
What I love about it:
- convenient location (I can walk to it)
- full food menu
- games to play
Twas Now Brewing
Location: 449 East Avenue, Kitchener
Twas Now Brewing brings a neighbourhood feel to the Kitchener craft beer scene. Their beers are approachable, making this a great stop for casual drinkers or those easing into craft beer.
It’s an ideal place to relax with friends and enjoy a low-key tasting experience.
What I love about it:
- authentic local roots
- weekly tasting opportunity (usually Saturdays)
- community vibe
Block 3 Brewery
Location: 1430 King Street North, St. Jacobs
Okay – Block 3 Brewery isn’t in Kitchener. It’s in nearby St. Jacobs. I love this brewery so much that I had to add it to the list.
The taproom is located in the heart of St. Jacobs and offers a wide selection of craft beer which is all brewed on site. They offer a rotating line-up of fresh releases, as well as the staple crowd favourites. In addition to the amazing craft beer, they also offer locally made snacks, board games, and crokinole tables.
What I love about it:
- location – it’s near my favourite hiking trail (The Mill Race Trail)
- patio for sunny days
- relaxed, laid-back atmosphere
Tips For Exploring Kitchener’s Craft Beer Scene
Visiting the craft breweries in Kitchener is a lot of fun! As a local and frequent visitor to Kitchener’s breweries, here are some tips to ensure that you get the most out of your experience:
- Plan a beer crawl BUT make sure you have a designated driver.
- Pair beer with food at Abe Erb or Waterloo Brewing
- Enjoy live entertainment at many of the breweries, paint night with the girls at Waterloo Brewery or a game of corn hole at Abe Erb. Many of the Kitchener brewpubs will keep you entertained for hours.
Why Kitchener Is Worth Visiting for Craft Beer
Kitchener’s craft brewery scene is an extension of the city itself. It’s creative, community-focused, and constantly evolving. Kitchener offers a well-rounded craft beer experience, while leaving the crowds of the larger cities behind.
If you’re visiting Kitchener and have a craving for a traditional lager, experimental sours, or a bite to eat with a cold one, Kitchener has a brewery for you!
🏨 Why not plan a craft beer crawl in Kitchener and stay the night! 🛌
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🏡 Rentals: Ontario has every style of accommodation rental imaginable, to suit every budget and travel style. For my vacation rentals, I use VRBO. This platform provides a wide variety of accommodations for every budget.
🏢 Hotels: Sometimes, I prefer to stay at a hotel, especially if I’m just staying in the area for a night or two. My go-to platform for booking hotels in Ontario is always Booking.com
🚴♀️ Activities: Ontario has so many activities to offer that it’s often difficult to choose. My favourite platform to find activities in each area of Ontario is Get Your Guide
🚗 Car Rentals: Ontario is so massive that’s it’s literally impossible to explore everything without a vehicle. Although I do have my own car, there have been times that I’ve rented a vehicle – especially for longer road trips. When in doubt, I’ve used Booking.com to find the best deal on rentals.
💰 Insurance: When travelling abroad, I purchase my medical insurance through Advisor Max, as well as my cancellation and trip-interruption insurance. Advisor Max is also the ideal company for visitors to Ontario, or any part of Canada, to purchase their travel insurance.
SAVE FOR A KITCHENER CRAFT BREWERY CRAWL
