Cheers, Mate!
Written By: Raphael Madrid Best Beer Orange County
Just when you thought there weren’t any trendy new holidays to celebrate this year, “National Drink a Beer Day” (Sept. 28) is the next Hallmark holiday to motivate you to get you off your couch and onto a bar stool. Order a pint of your favorite cold one or try something completely out of your comfort zone. Either way, the goal is to feel the refreshing, unbridled satisfaction of that first sip after a long day. There’s nothing like unwinding from a “case of the Mondays” than with a cold beer in hand.
1 | Helmsman Ale House Best Beer Orange County
What to Order: Abuelita’s Porter
Even though fall is officially here, you know that the California sun isn’t going anywhere. The open-air patio and beer garden at Helmsman Ale House is the perfect spot to kick back and sip a brew.
Helmsman Ale House
2920 Newport Blvd
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.220.9977
2 | Laguna Beach Beer Co.
What to Order: Ruby St. IPA with Red Grapefruit
Whether you head to the Laguna or new Huntington Beach location, you’ll be greeted by LBBC’s large, colorful murals and a chill coastal vibe. You won’t be disappointed—this place is definitely worthy of your Instagram feed.
Laguna Beach Beer Co.
859 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.715.0805
7631 Edinger Ave, Ste 1512
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714.372.7706
3 | Landers Liquor Bar Best Beer Orange County
What to Order: Juneshine
Landers’ high desert swagger makes it one of the coolest bars in Costa Mesa—dare I say all of Orange County? This low-key establishment with vintage vibes is sure to serve you nothing but a good time.
Landers Liquor Bar
2101 Harbor Blvd
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
714.714.0086
4 | Rock & Brews Tustin
What to Order: Four Sons Coco Nutorious Amber Ale
When you visit Rock & Brews, you already know what to expect: quality food, a huge selection of local and international craft beer on tap and all the rock and roll memorabilia you could ask for. The Tustin location is equipped with an enormous patio, which is ideal for social-distanced sipping.
Rock & Brews Tustin
1222 Irvine Blvd
Tustin, CA 92780
657.254.3040
5 | Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
What to Order: Flight Tasting
Sip in style as you take in beautiful views of Newport Harbor at Tavern House! This local spot serves up a fresh selection of seafood dishes prepared with the highest quality, sustainable ingredients. Whether you’re looking to brunch it up or pop in for a late night brew and a snack, this Newport classic is a must-try!
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
333 Bayside Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.673.8464
6 | Craft House
What to Order: Craft House Light
Located on breezy Pacific Coast Hwy, is Chef Blake Mellgran’s local eatery and bar, Craft House. This SoCal hotspot is the place to be if you’re looking for a light sip and a snack. With ample outdoor seating, you can enjoy the gorgeous fall weather. Not a beer lover? You’re in luck! Craft House has an extensive selection of premium whiskies!
Craft House
34094 Pacific Coast Hwy
Dana Point, CA 92629
949.481.7734
7 | Salty Bear Brewing Co.
What to Order: Coastal Fog Hazy IPA
The people at Salty Bear knew what they were doing when they decided to go that extra mile to design their brewery. A beautifully landscaped outdoor patio (large enough for social distancing), a modern indoor tap room and, best of all, the beer to complement it.
Salty Bear Brewing Co.
2948 Randolph Ave, Ste C
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714.486.2165
8 | Stag Bar + Kitchen Best Beer Orange County
What to Order: Helmsman Odelay Lager
Stag Bar is one of the oldest establishments in Orange County, dating back to 1908, living through Prohibition and the Great Depression. That history alone should warrant a visit into this hallowed hall. Take a trip (and a sip) through past generations.
Stag Bar + Kitchen
121 McFadden Pl
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.673.4470
9 | Malarky’s Best Beer Orange County
What to Order: Guinness Irish Stout
Malarky’s is a quintessential Irish pub in Newport Beach, serving up the classics and more. This fun and friendly establishment has been a staple for over 40 years. Enjoy a cold one on their new outdoor patio.
Malarky’s
3011 Newport Blvd
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.675.2340
10 | Simmzy’s – Huntington Beach
What to Order: Beach Cruisin’ Blonde
Simmzy’s at Pacific City is the beachside restaurant/bar hangout that you won’t want to leave. This family-owned pub will make you feel like you’re on vacation, even when you’re right at home.
Simmzy’s – Huntington Beach
21028 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste E100
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714.831.1240
11 | Beachwood Brewing Best Beer Orange County
What to Order: Amalgamator West Coast IPA
Complete with comfy lawn chairs and a dog-friendly environment, Beachwood has you covered with their tented and turfed patio area, so you can enjoy the brews and the breeze at the same time.
Beachwood Brewing
7631 Woodwind Dr
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714.375.0949
12 | Pizza Port San Clemente
What to Order: Abraham Drinkin’ American Wheat Ale
Pizza Port in San Clemente is where you want to be sipping a great craft brew during golden hour. They’ve got an enormous, two-story taproom with a balcony and patio for that perfect moment of zen.
Pizza Port San Clemente
301 N El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
949.940.0005
