Top 5 Breweries in Cincinnati

Looking for your next Craft Brewery to explore? Most may not think of Cincinnati when talking beer; however, the Cincinnati area beer scene has exploded in recent years with over 25 local breweries within the greater Cincy area. In no particular order, I have listed my top 5 breweries in town below with a couple special mentions at the bottom! Bottoms up!!!

MadTree

Opened in 2013. This behemoth of a building includes sit down eating (best known for their pizza), plenty of bar space, and a beautiful and open patio/outdoor space. Was by far one of my favorite breweries both for the atmosphere, but most importantly because of the amazing beer! Popular Brews: PsycHOPathy (IPA), Lift (Kolsch), and Happy Amber (Amber Ale).

Rhinegeist

Opened in 2013. The most well known brewery from the Cincinnati area and for good reason too. They have a great variety of outstanding beer options and their location is expansive with massive indoor and outdoor areas. Part of what makes Rhinegeist so great is their emphasis on their indoor activities and games. Popular Brews: Truth (IPA), Cougar (Blonde Ale), Pure Fury (Pale Ale).

Urban Artifact

Opened in 2015. Specializes in the fruited and sour beers; features a taproom, full bar, and live music. The brewery is located in an old church gymnasium just behind the main church building. Their taproom holds several hundred people and they have a beautiful courtyard which is a great spot to sit outside and enjoy a beer. Popular Brews: Finn (Sour-Ale), Keypunch (Sour-Gose), Sliderule (Sour-Gose).

Christian Moerlein

Originally opened way back in 1853 until prohibition; Reopened in 1981. Prominently situated in the dynamic Smale Riverfront Park, the Moerlein Lager House includes a working microbrewery producing a full line of Moerlein craft brews as well as full menu of food options. All located within the city’s celebrated 19th century beer gardens. Popular Brews: OTR (Ale), Northern Liberties (IPA), and Barbarossa (Dunkel-Lager).

Humble Monk Brewing Co.

Opened in 2019. Pizza available by delivery via NYPD Pizza. Check out their events calendar for a schedule of local food truck options. Popular Brews: Uncle Gid’s Farmhouse Ale (Farmhouse Ale), Pearly Gates (American IPA), and if you’re a Bourbon Barrel Aged fan you will enjoy their Rapture and Thresher.

Special mentions…

Bad Tom Smith

Opened in 2013. This local brewery and taproom has seating for ~100 and the bar has 18 taps allowing for a large and wide variety of house made beers. Popular Brews: Bad Tom Smith (American Brown Ale), Fink Red Rye (Rye), and Doc’s Dark Cream Ale.

Northern Row Brewery

Opened in 2018. Situated in the historic Over-the-Rhine Brewery District. Located along the street car route and near Rhinegeist (so easy to hop around.) Popular Brews: Heckler (Juicy IPA), Robber (Witbier), and Banker (Oatmeal Stout).