Welcome to Craftsman Brewing Company
Craftsman Brewing Company, nestled in Pasadena, CA, is a celebrated microbrewery known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Established by an experienced brewer with a passion for brewing excellence, Craftsman has earned a loyal following for its exceptional beers, including the standout Heavenly Hefe and Berlinerweisse. The brewery emphasizes simplicity and prowess in beer-making, focusing on small-scale production rather than commercial expansion. With no tasting room on-site, patrons are encouraged to enjoy their creations at local bars, celebrating the artistry of each brew. Craftsman Brewing Company embodies a spirit of creativity and authenticity, making it a must-try for craft beer lovers.
-
1260 Lincoln Ave #100, Pasadena, CA 91103 Hotline: (626) 296-2537
Welcome to the world of Craftsman Brewing Company, a true gem nestled in the heart of Pasadena, California. Known for its artisanal brewing techniques and dedication to quality, this brewery stands out as one of the oldest and most respected establishments in the Los Angeles area.
Located at 1260 Lincoln Ave #100, Pasadena, CA 91103, Craftsman Brewing Company is a testament to the fine art of brewing. With a history dating back to its founding in 1979, the brewery has evolved while staying true to its core principles: exceptional taste, technical mastery, and a commitment to small-scale production. As customer Jim D. aptly stated, the owner’s approach to brewing is a seamless blend of passion and expertise, resulting in beers that resonate with flavor and authenticity.
- Renowned Beers: From their acclaimed Heavenly Hefe—a Bavarian Hefeweizen that rivals some of the best in Munich—to the thirst-quenching 1903 Lager, every sip promises a burst of flavor. Customers rave about the Berlinerweisse, highlighting its refreshing quality.
- Unique Experience: Though there is no tasting room on-site, visitors are encouraged to explore various local establishments that offer Craftsman’s creations. Enjoying their beers at bars like Maximiliano Italian Restaurant or Lucky Baldwin’s provides a communal experience where craft beer enthusiasts can share their passion.
- Dedicated Service: The owner, known for his down-to-earth personality and enthusiasm for brewing, does not focus on retail but instead nurtures the craft side of the business. While this may make finding their beers a bit of a treasure hunt, those who are passionate about quality will find the effort well worth it.
Certainly, the brewery's somewhat elusive nature only adds to its charm. Customers, such as Jessica S. and Cameron H., express their admiration not just for the beer but for the philosophy behind Craftsman Brewing Company: simple, beautiful beers made with love. This ethos is palpable, making every encounter with their brews feel special.
In a crowded craft beer market, Craftsman Brewing Company holds its ground as a top contender. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this brewery promises a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond merely quenching your thirst—it's about savoring a legacy steeped in passion for quality brewing.
So, if you find yourself in the Pasadena area, remember to seek out these hidden treasures. Whether it's through a local bar or your favorite watering hole, the journey to discover a Craftsman beer is one worth embarking on.
Great Beer, likely 40 years at it. Always and distinguished. Marching to its own. A challenge to find but when fresh truly worthy
Jennifer was amazing, she couldn't have been better, made the whole experience one to remember. Definitely coming back soon.
These are some of the best craft beers anywhere, so the fact that they are made right here in Pasadena is pretty incredible. I first met the owner in 1979, we went to college together. His beer making is the same as his dye transfer printing--excellent taste and perception combined with technical mastery. This is a guy who does it 110%. So, hearing his voice in my head while reading the transcription of a phone call in another review had me cracking up, but probably not for the reason that the reviewer intended. I completely understand why he wants to keep the operation at a scale that he can control, and is not interested in retail sales. The fact that there is a Yelp page for a "wholesale only" operation is kind of interesting, probably flattering, but maybe a bit misleading and frustrating to someone who is thirsty. If you want to drink a 1903 Lager, go to Lucky Baldwin's.
Craftsman is the best brewery in the LA area and has been for years. Pretty much every beer from them I've ever had has been excellent. The Heavenly Hefe is probably the best Bavarian Hefeweizen I've had outside of Munich. Their Berlinerweisse is top notch. Even their 1903, despite being distributed pretty widely, is a very solid beer. The owner is quirky but a super nice guy if you talk to him in person. Believe the hype--this place is legit.
Read the reviews but still called the owner just to ask him about local beers around Pasadena that he stocks...MAN THIS GUY IS SO NICE. Maybe whoever is approaching him is too demanding? Anyway, he spent about 8 minutes telling me about his beers and i'm going to go to kings row and get some tonight. Thanks! -J
Best brewery in Los Angeles, bar none. Don't call them, don't try to get beer for your wedding or your birthday party etc. just find your local watering hole that's carrying the stuff and drink it. Enjoy it because it's made with love. Mark isn't a sales man, he's not made for customer service, hence no tasting room, he was a JPL man who happens to really be passionate about making simple beers really beautifully and if you can't appreciate that, kick rocks.
Fantastic beer from one of the oldest breweries in Los Angeles, but they don't have a tasting room attached. Maximiliano Italian restaurant in Highland Park is their official tasting room with 4 permanent handles and 3 rotating taps. Lucky Baldwins is also a good place to find their latest experiments.
5 stars to the nice business owner who has to turn away beer seekers. Yelp, we need to fix this page. It is a small brewer, in a business park. But no food trucks, no tasting room...Never has been, never will be, according to the proprietor. One day, the city of Pasadena will allow Craftsman to do a tasting room. But not anytime soon it seems like...
"Homer no function beer well without." - Homer Simpson I couldn't have said it better myself. The 1903 is my favorite, it's a great lager. Triple White Sage is a wonderful full flavored Belgium beer. I've also had the Abbey, and that knocked me on my ass at 10% alcohol by volume (ABV). You can get their beers at various bars throughout LA. Their website hasn't been updated in years, so don't look there. I've had it at Village Idiot and the Smoke House. Read the interview by Andy S below, it's a wonderful piece. They talk about Craftsman bottled beer! I would love to know where they sell it, if they do have it.