If you love craft beer, look no further than Salem, Oregon. Salem is home to a thriving craft beer scene that truly has a draft for everyone that walks through their doors. You’ll find casual spots to unwind with friends, brewery tours and festivals, and lively community spaces. Let’s explore some of the top local breweries (and one cider house) that define Salem’s craft beer scene.
Santiam Brewing
Santiam Brewing is well-known for their British-style ales, but they also have a selection of American and European brews. This cozy British brewpub features a rotating tap list that includes IPAs, stouts, and unique seasonal offerings. Their “Bloody Hell” (a blood orange and grapefruit-infused IPA) and “Pirate Stout” (a barrel-aged rum and coconut stout) are local favorites. Santiam Brewing’s welcoming taproom and heated outdoor patio are perfect for year-round gatherings. Don’t forget to try their fish and chips!
For Tomorrow We Die Brewing
For Tomorrow We Die Brewing brings bold creativity to Salem’s craft beer scene with a philosophy of living life to the fullest. With an emphasis on creativity, experimentation, and seasonally-inspired brews, their house lineup includes options like the “Orange U Lucky!” Pale Ale, “Tomorrow’s IPA,” and the “Maiden Voyage Stout.” For Tomorrow We Die’s taproom is relaxed and inviting, allowing patrons to enjoy innovative beers alongside local art and occasional live music. They’ve also got a selection of food provided by the Taproot Trolley!
Xicha Brewing
Xicha Brewing (pronounced “chee-chah”) stands out in Salem’s craft beer scene as the city’s first Latinx-owned brewery. Established in 2017, Xicha offers a mouthwatering combination of Latin American-inspired craft beers and cuisine. With brews like the “Huitlacoche Stout,” “Mangifera” Mango Sour, and “Guyaba” Guava Golden Ale, you can’t go wrong.
Beyond the cerveza, Xicha Brewing’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it a popular place to enjoy vibrant flavors and community events. With two locations in Salem, Xicha’s taprooms and spacious patios offer an ideal place to spend time with loved ones while savoring delicious tacos, empanadas, and local brews.
Shades of Brew
Founded by a group of friends with a shared passion for craft beer, Shades of Brew is dedicated to building a strong sense of community around Salem’s brewing culture. With a mission to celebrate and grow Salem’s status as a hub for craft beer, Shades of Brew showcases a range of thoughtfully crafted beers through their own brewery and partnerships with other Pacific Northwest breweries.
With rotating house drafts like the “FRESH HOP N ROLL ALL NIGHT” CITRA Fresh Hop IPA and the “Roasty Toasty” Imperial Dark Roast Chocolate Milk Stout—in addition to food cart partners like Adan’s Grill, The Red Marino, Zen Thai and Sushi, and El Ajo Loco—your evening is all set!
Gilgamesh Brewing
Gilgamesh Brewing has been a staple for craft beer in Salem since 2009. Known for their creative and approachable brews, Gilgamesh offers a variety of beers that appeal to various tastes. Their flagship award-winning brew, “The Mamba,” is a unique, low-bitterness ale brewed with black tea and tangerine zest. At The Campus location in Salem, visitors can enjoy their lineup of beers along with delicious pub-style food in a warm, family-friendly environment.
McMenamins Thompson Brewery & Public House
Located in a historic house built in 1905, McMenamins Thompson Brewery & Public House has been a gathering place in Salem since 1990. As part of the renowned group of McMenamins restaurants, this brewpub is known for their snug and intimate ambiance where visitors can enjoy classic McMenamins craft beers that are brewed on-site. Signature beers like the “Hammerhead Pale Ale” and “Ruby” Ale are always on tap, alongside rotating seasonal offerings. With a variety of seating options, woodburning fire pits, and nostalgic outdoor patio among the trees, Thompson Brewery & Public House is a great option for a laid-back night out.
Sparky’s Brewing Company
Sparky’s Brewing Company brings a neighborhood vibe to the Salem taphouse scene. Known for their small-batch, handcrafted brews and community-oriented environment, Sparky’s is loved for drinks like the “Voltage Drop” Kolsch, “Code Change IPA,” “Plug-In” Pilsner, and “AMP” Amber Ale. You won’t want to miss out on the food from their kitchen—burgers, brick-oven pizza, soups, salads and more. They also regularly host events like trivia, brunch bingo, and live music!
b2 Taphouse & Brewery
b2 Taphouse & Brewery has a loyal following in Salem, with both house-brewed beers and guest brews on tap. Popular b2 pours like the “West of Sisters” Hazy IPA and the “Dark Side of the Boone” Stout are among the local favorites. With weekly specials and regular community events, b2 is a lively setting to grab a cold pint, sit by the fire, and enjoy the evening.
Ratchet Brewery
Ratchet Brewery, with their auto-inspired vibe and bold flavors, has become a key component of Salem’s craft beer community. Their flagship taproom provides plenty of seating, sports on the TV, and rotating food trucks to complement the beer selection. Pick from a variety of creative Ratchet brews, including the “Hazy Sunday Drive” IPA, “Bullpen Cart” Lager, and “Get Your Shift Together” Amber Ale. Stop by on “Firkin Fridays” to tap and taste the weekly firkin!
La Familia Cider
Craft beer, craft cider—they’re all part of the same craft beverage familia. Which is why we’re including La Familia Cider as an honorable mention on our list! This family-owned cider house specializes in flavors inspired by their Mexican heritage and Aguas Frescas—such as Tamarindo (Tamarind), Guayaba (Guava), and Jamaica (Hibiscus).
La Familia Cider’s refreshing and fruit-forward ciders stand out for their quality ingredients (including 100% Northwest Apple Juice) and bold taste profiles. They also have seasonal cocktails, bottles and cans, and growlers on rotation. If you’re a fan of cider, this is a must-try spot in Salem!
From IPAs, Ales, and Stouts to Sours and Ciders, Salem’s local breweries (and cider houses) are ready to serve. Each of these locations offer great drinks, welcoming taprooms, and opportunities to connect with the community. Whether you live locally or are just passing through, be sure to stop by these businesses and experience the creativity and community that make Salem’s craft beer scene so special. Cheers! 🍻
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Sep. 14th, 2023