Craft beer is booming all over the world and Toronto, Ontario is no stranger to the brewing industry. With over 50 breweries operating, Ontario’s capital city is bursting with brews. From hoppy IPAs to fruity saisons, beer connoisseurs and newbies alike will find something that suits them throughout Toronto. Scope out the scene, enjoy a cold one and find a brewery where you can kick back and relax.
Bellwoods Brewery
Bellwoods Brewery is a namesake in the Toronto beer scene. Owners Mike Clark and Luke Pestl first opened up shop on Ossington Avenue in 2012, then quickly expanded to a second location on Haffis Road in 2016. The Ossington Avenue location is a crowd favorite, with their warm weather patio seating and phenomenal menu featuring local, seasonal dishes. Swing by in the summer with your friends and find what ales you.
Must try: Jelly King. This dry hopped sour ale can be found at either location and at local festivals.
Junction Craft Brewing
All aboard! Toronto loves themes – and Junction Craft Brewing celebrates the railway history of Toronto through it’s locomotive themed beers. For this local favorite, it’s been full steam ahead ever since brewers Tom and Doug first left the station in 2011. Jump on the Junction bandwagon and try their long list of brews at the taproom or find them throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
Must try: Conductor’s Craft Ale. The brewery’s flagship beer, Conductor’s Craft Ale, harmoniously blends five malt and five hop varieties to create a dreamy amber ale.
Halo Brewery
It may be the baby of the Toronto craft beer industry, but Halo Brewery isn’t for beer amateurs. A sweet home-brewing turned commercial location story has already given Halo Brewery a spotlight among other local breweries. The unique flavor experimentations will pique the palate of the biggest beer snob, while the staple brews will comfort those just looking for a cold drink on a warm day.
Must try: Tokyo Rose. A floral saison, Tokyo Rose starts off sweet and finishes with a feeling similar to that of champagne.
Whatever the hop, the Toronto craft beer scene is serving up some of the finest brews for locals and tourists. Beer connoisseurs just might want to call Toronto home. While some breweries have held down the fort for a while, others are making waves and there seems to be a new spot popping up monthly. Keep an eye out for the latest and greatest Toronto craft beer and be sure to enjoy a cold one (or two).
Left Field Brewery
For the sports and beer enthusiast, you’ll definitely hit a homerun with a trip to Left Field Brewery. This baseball decked-out brewery knocks it out of the park when it comes to baseball inspired beers. Husband and wife duo Mark and Mandie (alongside their very serious security pup, Wrigley) have made Left Field Brewery a place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a refreshing beer. You can find their spin on some of your favorite styles like IPAs, gose and brown ales.
Must try: Laser Show. A fruit forward double IPA named after Dustin Pedroia’s infamous term.
Amsterdam Brewery
Having served Toronto beer fans for over thirty years, you could call Amsterdam Brewery the founding father of the Toronto craft beer industry. Amsterdam Brewery has had a long time to perfect its lineup of brews, and truly serves up something for everyone (even beer newbies). You can catch something on tap at their brewery location, Brewhouse or newly opened Barrel House.
Must try: Boneshaker IPA. Rightfully named, this award-winning IPA will liven up your senses with a grapefruit aroma and hoppy aftertaste.