abrunettetravels Last updated on September 4th, 2023 at 03:54 pm
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When you think of a Florida beach vacation do you think about going to local craft breweries? No? Well, you wouldn’t be alone. Florida is known for many things, but craft beer hasn’t always been one of them. Fortunately, things are changing, and we are seeing an explosion of local breweries along the Treasure Coast. Here are the best craft breweries in Vero Beach you need to try.
In our 10 years here, we have seen the popularity increase. Whether you are looking for a seat at the bar to drink your favorite pint or a place for lunch/dinner, Vero Beach has something for you.
1. Best Location
Sailfish Brewing Company
A local brewing company that originated in Fort Pierce, Florida, just a few miles south of Vero Beach and recently added a location in Vero Beach, Sailfish has one of the best locations in the area. Just a few steps away from the beach sitting on Ocean Drive and within walking distance of cute boutiques and ice cream shops, Sailfish is quite easy to stop by for lunch or dinner. Their addition of outdoor seating makes this a great choice for enjoying the weather and people watching.
A step up from typical pub food, Sailfish has an excellent menu. While their food is worth making the visit, the craft beer is the draw to Sailfish. On tap you will find a large selection of their beer as well as guest taps. Chris’s favorite is Fish Whistle with their White Marlin Wit a close second. Other perennial favorites are Sunrise City IPA and the Tag & Release Amber. For a winning combination, pair with their blackened Mahi fish sandwich.
Located at: 2855 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach
2. Largest Selection of Craft Beer
Walking Tree Brewery
Beer is a way of life at Walking Tree Brewery. For people who love to try different styles of beer, this is the place to go. Located in a 1945 aviation supply warehouse, Walking Tree has an industrial vibe that makes this a great place to kick back and enjoy some of their locally brewed beer. From wheat to IPA, stouts to sours, you will find something that appeals to you. On the chance you can’t decide on just one, try a flight. Add Sandy Feet and Straw Hat to your flight if you want to sample two of their most popular beers.
Walking Tree does not have a kitchen, but food trucks are frequently on property. Make sure to check their website for the most current schedule.
Located at: 3209 Dodger Road, Vero Beach
3. Best Local Vibe
Mash Monkeys Brewing Company
Walk inside and you will feel like you are in a local hometown bar. People sitting at the bar talking with each other and the friendly bartenders, it has become a place where people stop off after work. Mash Monkeys brews a well-rounded selection of beer, but you will find a focus on stouts and porters, setting them apart from some of the other breweries. Additionally, Mash Monkeys offers seasonal brews and guest taps.
Like Walking Tree, Mash Monkeys does not have a kitchen. This is a place to enjoy the craft beer.
Located at: 920 US HWY 1, Sebastian
4. Best Beer
Pareidolia Brewing Company
Okay, best beer is subjective. Whenever I ask Chris what his favorite beer is, it is one of Pareidolia’s. Hands down, his choice is their 32958 or zip code beer. Coming in second is the Mel’s Gold Ale. Pareidolia has a large selection to choose from and they offer flights. Locals may recognize their location as the old post office in Sebastian. Outside is a dog friendly patio.
Pareidolia has a kitchen with basic pub food if you get the munchies while drinking. A word of warning, they have a loyal following, so expect a full bar and to make some new friends while you are there.
Located at: 712 Cleveland Street, Sebastian
5. Best Overall
American Icon Brewery
Combine the best beer, food and atmosphere and our favorite overall is American Icon Brewery. The old Vero Beach diesel power plant is now home to our favorite brewpub. American Icon has an excellent selection of beer to choose from. Their “go to” beer for Chris is the Icon Haze, 1926 Hef and the Factory Pilsner. In the fall, their Oktoberfest beer is one of the best in town.
Unlike some of the other breweries, I go to American Icon for the food. The menu features upscale pub food that is always good. The street corn nachos, mahi tacos and flatbreads are consistently good. In the mood for a burger, their burger selection is large and quite tasty. You can’t go wrong with whichever you choose.
Located at: 1133 19th Place, Vero Beach
Conclusion
While the craft beer scene is relatively new to this part of Florida, we have seen an explosion in the last 10 years. With this, some excellent pubs have found their homes here. If you like craft beer that is locally made, these are the craft breweries in Vero Beach you need to try.
If you are looking to make a long weekend or even a full beach vacation out of your visit, Vero Beach has much to do. I encourage you to check out this little slice of paradise on the Treasure Coast.
