Last Updated August 26, 2024
Everything you need to know about Sarasota breweries and the local craft beer scene in one handy place!
Florida’s Gulf Coast boasts an irresistible selection of mouthwateringly cool breweries and endless possibilities for great beer experiences. We’ve checked out all these Sarasota Breweries and are excited to share all the insider info with you.
Whether you’re looking for our personal favorites (we’ve put them to the test!) or want to explore every brewery in town, we’ve got the lowdown. Plus, we’ve prepared a handy map to make planning your brewery adventure a breeze. So kick back, relax, and get ready to discover the best of Sarasota’s craft beer scene with us!
Sarasota Breweries Guide
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Best Breweries in Sarasota, Florida, and Nearby Area (Our Top Picks!)
It’s true; you’ll find some of Florida’s best breweries in Sarasota and neighboring towns. Sarasota is home to several excellent and award-winning craft breweries. But some rise above and beyond all expectations. If you only have time to visit a few, these are the 4 top breweries we recommend.
Big Top Brewing Company
Undoubtedly, the Big Top Brewing Company is one of the best and most iconic breweries in Sarasota. It was founded in 2013 by two buddies who were passionate about brewing exceptional craft beer.
Big Top Brewing’s Sarasota taproom offers an impressive selection of over 20 craft beers, including their flagship Circus City IPA and New England-style Hazy Highwire. Their circus-themed beers celebrate Sarasota’s rich circus culture, a nod to the city’s history. Visitors can also indulge in refreshing summer sippers like Trapeze Monk, a citrusy Belgian witbier, and Conch Republic Key Lime Pale Wheat.
The brewery’s taproom is family and dog-friendly, with a spacious outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying a pint in the Florida sunshine.
In addition to its stellar beer lineup and full food menu, the Sarasota brewery hosts special events like food truck rallies on the second Saturday of the month. Their Lakewood Ranch taproom hosts a rotation of food trucks, making them a popular destination for all kinds of customers and events.
Live music, entertainment, and special events, like beer bingo nights and yoga mornings, add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
Their newest location has just opened in Fruitville Commons is their largest with an event venue for hosting, large beer garden, gastropub and production facility.
Location: 975 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Phone: (941) 371-2939
Social: Untappd Instagram Facebook
Calusa Brewing Company
Calusa Brewing is a veteran—and family-owned brewery. It’s also one of the most popular breweries in Sarasota, Florida. Founded in 2016, Calusa Brewing focuses on various beer styles, including hop-forward ales, barrel-aged brews, mixed-culture fermentation beers, and classic-style pilsners and lagers. The brewery’s name pays homage to the Indigenous Calusa people who inhabited southwest Florida, reflecting their fierce spirit in their boldly flavored brews.
Situated in a spacious warehouse, Calusa Brewing features a production facility, taproom, and store with ample outdoor space to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather. The brewery is family-friendly and welcomes guests of all ages to experience its welcoming environment. Visitors can indulge in delicious food from Pigfish, the taproom onsite kitchen in collaboration with world-renowned chefs. And on days when Pigfish is closed there guests can enjoy a rotating lineup of Sarasota’s best food trucks.
Calusa Brewing’s beer lineup includes several standouts, such as the citrus-forward hazy Zote IPA, the 100% citra hop “Citronius B.I.G.” DIPA, and the Dissonance Breakfast Brown Ale, infused with coffee and cinnamon flavors.
Location: 5701 Derek Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34233
Phone: (941) 922-8150
Social: Untappd Instagram, Facebook
Motorworks Brewing (Bradenton)
As the first of many Bradenton breweries to officially open, Motorworks Brewery secured high favor amongst local beer enthusiasts just north of Sarasota. Its continued growth and popularity have only increased since, and it has won multiple awards.
Co-founded by Frank and Denise Tschida, Motorworks Brewing is housed in a historic 27,000 sq. ft. building dating back to 1923. It was once a bustling automobile dealership with a rich automotive heritage. Inspired by its storied past, the owners look to the commitment to quality craftsmanship famous in the historic vehicle industry for inspiration in their brewing approach, which certainly shows in their high-touch brews.
Motorworks Brewing is located in the heart of Bradenton’s expanding downtown entertainment corridor, midway between the downtown Riverwalk and the renowned LECOM Field, home of the Bradenton Marauders and spring training stadium for the Pittsburgh Pirates. It is adjacent to Bradenton’s vibrant Village of the Arts, making it a convenient choice for locals and tourists alike.
The impressive beer garden is the largest in Florida. Patrons can relax on the spacious deck surrounding a magnificent 150+ year-old oak tree or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including cornhole, bocce ball, and life-sized games like Jenga and Connect Four. The brewery also has an extensive events calendar, live music schedule, and a 22 ft. projection screen for film screenings and sporting events.
You’ll find a wide range of refreshing lagers, bold IPAs, and robust stouts in the spaciously seated taproom. Plus, you can pair your favorite brew with your choice of pub-style dishes expertly crafted to complement the flavorful beers.
Location: 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton, Florida 34205
Phone: (941) 567-6218
Social: Untappd Facebook, Instagram
3 Bridges Brewing (Venice)
Newly debuted in its own premises in 2023 in nearby Venice, 3 Bridges Brewing is amongst Sarasota’s brewery’s top contenders. Despite the new location, 3 Bridges is a venture that has previously operated within Off The Wagon brewpub and kitchen (one of the best gastropubs in Venice!).
Just off the U.S.-41 Bypass, on the Tamiami Trail, 3 Bridges Brewing has become a community hub where locals gather to savor the best of Venice’s craft beer scene in one of the favorite breweries in Sarasota County. Open 11 am to 10 pm daily, 3 Bridges invites families to come and join the fun, where the owners strive to give back to their community through good times and good beers! So far, they’ve succeeded in doing precisely that with a dedicated area for cornhole and a welcoming outdoor space.
At 3 Bridges, you can choose from 22 tap beers, with some of the most notable offerings including its Tasty Pig and Skyway IPAs, 1765 Czech-style Pilsner, and Wunderkind hefeweizen. You can also sample local flavor here as you indulge in inventive culinary delights like the Cuban wrap and locally renowned smash burgers (known among locals as the BEST burger in Venice!).
The covered patio area is dog-friendly and perfect for soaking up the Florida sunshine while enjoying a cold pint. With live music events, trivia nights, and other entertainment options, there’s always something happening at 3 Bridges Brewery.
Location: 1765 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL
Phone: +1 941-445-4067
Complete List of Sarasota Breweries (Every Single One!)
The first brewery in Sarasota debuted in 1996 and has paved the way for enthusiastic beer lovers (and makers!) ever since. Below, we’ve made a list of EVERY one of the currently open craft breweries in Sarasota, Florida (ordered alphabetically).
- Almazonica Cerveceria
- Big Top Brewing Company
- Brew Life Brewing
- Calusa Brewing Company
- Good Liquid Brewing Company
- Sun King Brewing
Although they might not have made it into our top picks list, the remaining four Sarasota breweries are definitely still worth a visit. Check out their info below and see what you think!
Image Source – https://www.almazonicacerveceria.com/
Almazonica Cerveceria
Almazonica Cerveceria takes a slightly different approach to other Sarasota breweries. This Peruvian family-owned nano-brewery offers a unique culinary and brewing experience, blending the best South American flavors and craft beer expertise.
Founded in 2021 by Chef Darwin Santa Maria, former founder of Darwin Brewing Company and Selva Grill, each small batch of craft beer is crafted on-site using a small barrel system, resulting in adventurous and distinctive brews perfect for pairing with the eatery’s Peruvian specialties.
The Cerveceria’s full kitchen offers an array of Peruvian delights, from traditional ceviche to inventive seafood and beef dishes, which you can enjoy amidst the laid-back vibe in their charming outdoor area. Chef Darwin Santa Maria’s expertise in blending local ingredients from Peru with innovative culinary techniques shines through with every bite and sip.
Location: 4141 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
Phone: (941) 260-5964
Social: Untappd Instagram, Facebook
Brew Life Brewing
Touted as Sarasota’s smallest brewery, if you’re looking for a fun-filled casual drinking experience, this brewery is for you. Brew Life Brewing is a small-batch brewery boasting a 55-gallon barrel system. Step into their taproom, and you’ll immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere, with over eight taps pouring various in-house brew beers. From tart fruit-forward flavors like their Pink Guava IPA and Mango Sour ale to rich, dessert-like stouts and barleywine, there’s something whimsical to delight every beer enthusiast’s palate.
The best part is the retro arcade stocked with classic vintage console games such as Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug. Patrons can re-live nostalgic gaming experiences while sipping on quirky craft microbrews in the laid-back vibe that permeates the taproom. While there is no kitchen service, Brew Life Brewing offers snacks, and guests can also explore nearby food options or grab a bite from the occasional food trucks that make an appearance.
Location: 5767 Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Phone: (941) 952-3831
Social: Untappd Instagram, Facebook
Good Liquid Brewing Company
Established in 2017 by a dedicated husband-and-wife team, this veteran-owned brewery initially started in Bradenton before relocating to its current location, in Lakewood Ranch Waterside area, to better serve its expanding community and growing fanbase.
Good Liquid Brewing Company offers a gastronomic adventure with some truly fantastic food! The quality of their food menu is only surpassed by the impressive selection of beers on tap. Choose from light lagers, hoppy ales, dark beers, cocktails, and wines. If you fancy some dinner, the kitchen service is fantastic, and you want to check out the shrimp burgers.
The brewery’s expansive outdoor area provides stunning views of the lakefront, creating an ideal setting to unwind and savor the moment. There’s even an outdoor piano for patrons to use! Additionally, Good Liquid Brewing prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere, welcoming guests of all ages and even furry friends so you can enjoy your craft beer and quality family time simultaneously.
Location: 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240
Phone: (941) 238-6466
Social: Untappd, Instagram, Facebook
Image Source – https://www.sunkingbrewing.com/locations
Sun King Brewing Company
Founded in 2009 in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sun King Brewing has brought its craft beer expertise to Sarasota, Florida, with its first and only taproom and brewing facility in the Sunshine State. Sun King’s is a haven for beer enthusiasts seeking handcrafted brews tailored for the Florida lifestyle. With 18 taps showcasing a mix of Florida-inspired creations and Sun King’s classic offerings, this Sarasota brewery has something for everyone.
Guests are welcomed with open arms, including four-legged friends and kiddies. The brewery boasts ample outdoor seating, providing the perfect setting to soak up the Florida sunshine while enjoying a cold pint. Plus, visitors can indulge in a rotating selection of food trucks, offering a variety of culinary delights, which Sun King pairs with a complementing brew. There are regular events and live entertainment, too, which you can keep up to date with via their Facebook page. From casual gatherings with friends to family outings, Sun King Brewing offers a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere that invites guests to relax, unwind, and savor the taste of Florida craft beer.
Location: 1215 Mango Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: (941) 893-3940
Social: Untappd Instagram, Facebook
Best Breweries Near Sarasota
If you’ve looked around our website (and we hope you have!), you’ll know that there are SO MANY cool things to do in and around Southwest Florida. And while we adore Sarasota, we would be doing you a disservice if we didn’t mention some of our favorite breweries from neighboring areas. After all, they are just a short drive away and definitely worth the trip. Here are three more breweries nearby that you ought to check out!
Back Porch Brewing
True to its name, the Back Porch brewery exudes a laid-back vibe reminiscent of relaxing on a porch with loved ones. Founded by Sarah and Anthony Tomaselli, who bring over 40 years of hospitality experience, the brewery embodies their vision of creating a space where friends and family can gather over good craft beer and wine.
At Back Porch Brewing, guests can enjoy a variety of craft beers, including popular choices like the Sunset Session IPA, Porch Swing Pale Ale, and Harbor Hefeweizen. For those who prefer wine, the brewery also offers a curated selection of quality wines to complement the beer offerings. The brewery’s setup encourages socializing and connection, with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Families are welcome to bring their little ones, as the brewery is kid-friendly, and furry friends are also invited to join in on the fun, as Back Porch Brewing is dog-friendly.
In addition to its impressive drink selection, this Venice brewery hosts various events to enhance the community experience and a rotation of local food trucks. Its commitment to fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie sets Back Porch Brewing apart. It is one of the best things to do in Venice to create lasting memories with friends and family.
Location: 3469 Precision Drive, North Venice, Florida 34275
Phone: 941-218-4156
Social: Untappd Facebook, Instagram
Image Source – https://3cargaragebrewing.com/
3 Car Garage Brewing Co
A short drive north will take you to one of our favorite Bradenton breweries: 3 Car Garage Brewing Co. It’s a great place with a welcoming vibe to kick back and have a good time. The brewery has a lively ambiance and serves as a vibrant stage for talented local artists to perform live music. It truly comes alive with electrifying performances every Friday night.
Guests can indulge in mouthwatering brisket sandwiches courtesy of Southern Smoked by JP, known for crafting some of the finest sandwiches in town. Pair your choice of sandwich with a side dish and a refreshing pint of the signature 3 Car beer, and you’re in for a Sunday well spent! Plus, they run a special offer every other Sunday from 1 to 6, where you can enjoy any beer on draft in a 16-ounce pour for just $15.
The place has a really fun vibe to it, where you can choose to relax with friends or get your energy up with a little friendly competition with the array of games, including classic card games, table games, and outdoor favorites like cornhole.
Another bonus is that you can build your 4-pack from the range of exclusive craft beers to take home.
Location: 8405 Heritage Green Way, Bradenton
Phone: (941) 741-8877
Social: Untappd Facebook, Instagram
3 Keys Brewing & Eatery
While in Bradenton, you’ll also want to make a pit stop at the 3 Keys Brewing & Gastrobrew, where craft beer meets gourmet pub food. With a focus on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, their gourmet burgers are crafted from locally raised beef.
With daily events and live music every Friday and Saturday, 3 Keys always has something exciting happening. Guests can enjoy live entertainment while sampling handcrafted beers, ciders, and seltzers indoors or on the shady deck, where well-behaved dogs are welcome.
The most enticing feature of 3 Keys Brewing Co. is the rewards program. Sign up for membership to earn points for every dollar you spend, which you can redeem for food and drinks. Alternatively, join the Mug Club, where you can earn invites to exclusive events such as monthly BOGOF nights and unlimited double-size refills!
Location: 2505 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton
Phone: (941) 218-0396
Sarasota Breweries Map
Locating breweries may be simple, but exploring them can be quite the feat. We’ve been there!
After pinpointing your preferred Sarasota breweries, utilize our brewery map below to chart your course. It highlights the local breweries’ positions, so you can easily explore them at your convenience without being overwhelmed by navigation! Plan ahead!
Sarasota Breweries with Food – Savor the Flavor
Nothing beats pairing a cold brew with the perfect platter. Plus, breweries often offer the chance to try some delicious new foods that we had yet to try alongside a beer.
Some breweries have a full kitchen, some serve appetizers, and others have paired up with rotating food trucks to bring you a continuous choice of hearty foods. For your ease, here’s a list of all the breweries we’ve noted and the food options available.
Full Kitchen Breweries
- Almazonica Cerveceria
- Big Top Brewing Company
- Calusa Brewing Company
- Good Liquid Brewing Company
- 3 Keys Brewing (Bradenton)
- 3 Bridges Brewing (Venice)
- Motorworks Brewing (Bradenton)
Food Trucks or Nearby Eateries
- Brew Life Brewing
- Calusa Brewing Company (on kitchen off-days)
- Sun King Brewing
- 3 Car Garage Brewing
- Back Porch Brewing Co
Sarasota Breweries with The Best Outdoor Areas
Thankfully, the Florida weather lends itself to spending time outdoors, so most breweries and restaurants have outdoor areas you can enjoy while drinking/dining. However, some go above and beyond expectations. Whether it’s a phenomenal view over the lakes or Gulf Coast, incredible sunsets, or expansive landscaped areas with outdoor amenities such as games and outdoor pianos (we especially love this one!), you’re sure to relish your time in the Florida sun as you sip back a cool brew. Below are the breweries in Sarasota, FL, with the best outdoor areas.
- Big Top Brewing – primary location offers wonderful atmosphere, firepits, tables and chairs and live music. Newest facility is even larger with plenty of family friendly areas.
- 3 Bridges Brewing (Venice) – large fenced outdoor patio area with grassy areas for games and family-friendly.
- Good Liquid Brewing Company – some of the best lakeviews in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
- Motorworks Brewery – one of the largest outdoor beer garden areas with a huge oak tree centerpiece, lots of tables, games and huge stage for concerts.
Family Friendly Breweries in Sarasota – Fun for All Ages
There are plenty of family-friendly breweries in Sarasota to choose from. While most breweries in Sarasota and surrounding areas are kid-friendly during the day, some require that evenings are strictly over 18 or 21, so it’s best to plan and check with the brewery you’ll be visiting beforehand.
That said, most breweries have a family vibe and even have plenty of games inside and out to entertain all ages. We put them to the test, and the breweries that came up most child-friendly for us include:
- Big Top Brewing Company
- Calusa Brewing Company
- 3 Bridges Brewing (Venice)
- Motorworks Brewery (Bradenton)
- Sun King Brewing
- Almazonica Cerverica
- Brew Life Brewing
Dog-Friendly Breweries in Sarasota and Beyond – Paws and Pints
Most breweries in Sarasota welcome four-legged friends but typically require them to be leashed and well-behaved. While some breweries may allow dogs indoors, many prefer to have them on the patio or outdoor area to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all patrons. So, whether you’re sipping on a cold brew or enjoying some outdoor vibes, your furry companions can join in on the fun if they follow the house rules. The most dog-friendly breweries in Sarasota include:
- Back Porch Brewing
- Good Liquid Brewing Company
- Sun King Brewing
- 3 Bridges Brewing
- 3 Keys Brewing
- Big Top Brewing
Sarasota Restaurants with Beer-Focused Menus
Suppose the breweries are not your perfect place to hang out. However, you still want to experience Sarasota’s beer scene like a local. In that case, you’ll be happy to know that plenty of restaurants and eateries heartily support local breweries and craft beer. Choose from any of the vibrant culinary destinations listed below, where local craft brews take center stage.
Downtown gems like 99 Bottles and Cask & Ale offer mouthwatering bites and an extensive selection of Sarasota and Tampa Bay brews.
For a slice of pizza paired with a cold one, head to Cock & Bull or 3.14 Craft Beer & Spirits, where local breweries collaborate to elevate the pizza experience. And there’s Oak & Stone (multiple locations) where you can enjoy a full menu of sandwiches and burgers in addition to fantastic pizzas and a self-pour wall of 50+ beers on tap. Just scan your card, pour your desired amount and enjoy!
Origin Craft Beer & Pizza boasts three locations across Sarasota. Each serves up to 20 craft beers, with a focus on Florida breweries.
And if tacos are calling your name, Irma’s Tacos in Wellen Park is a fusion of traditional Mexican-style and seafood tacos alongside award-winning brews from 3 Bridges Brewing.
Crafting Your Sarasota Brewery Experience – Tips for Visitors
Planning your tour of breweries in Sarasota, Florida? Here are a few local tips to make the most of your experience:
- Plan Your Route: Use our Sarasota brewery map to streamline your journey and maximize your time.
- Pair with Food: Indulge in delicious culinary delights at breweries with full kitchens or nearby food trucks.
- Embrace Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy the Florida sunshine at breweries with spacious patios or beer gardens.
- Bring the Family: Choose family-friendly breweries where everyone, including the kids, can have a great time.
- Celebrate Furry Friends: If you’re a pet lover, visit dog-friendly breweries where your four-legged companion can join in the fun, and then head to the only dog beach in the area afterwards!
Cheers to Sarasota Breweries!
Whether you’re seeking gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, outdoor relaxation, family fun, or a pet-friendly atmosphere, Sarasota breweries have something to offer. Sampling the local flavors is one of the best things to do in Sarasota, so raise your glass, toast to new adventures, and let the spirit of Sarasota’s brewing culture wash over you. Cheers!