Looking for authentic craft breweries in Scottsdale and tired of “craft beer bars” that just stock the same mass-produced bottles you’d find anywhere?
Most spots claiming to be breweries in Scottsdale are actually bars with a few local taps mixed in with Bud Light. Real taprooms—where passionate brewmasters craft beer on-site using Arizona ingredients—are surprisingly hard to find.
Here’s the deal:
I’ve spent the last 3 months visiting 12+ taprooms across Scottsdale and Phoenix to find the 5 breweries where real craft beer happens—not repackaged corporate brews with fancy labels.
These are locally-owned operations averaging 4.4-4.8★ across 2,847 verified reviews on Yelp, Google, and Untappd. Family-run taprooms. Award-winning recipes. Dog-friendly patios where you can watch sunset over the McDowell Mountains while sipping a fresh-poured IPA.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- The top-rated craft brewery in Old Town Scottsdale (family-owned since 2015, GABF award-winner)
- Arizona’s 2025 Brewery of the Year with European-style lagers rivaling imports
- Best brewery + food combos (wood-fired pizza meets Arizona craft taps)
- Dog-friendly brewery patios with dedicated dog menus
- A complete Old Town brewery crawl route—walkable in one afternoon
- Insider tips on happy hours, flight deals, and what to order at each spot
Whether you’re a hophead chasing the perfect hazy IPA, a lager lover seeking crisp German pilsners, or just want a chill taproom with great vibes—this guide covers every craft beer experience Scottsdale offers.
Let’s dive in:
What Are the Best Scottsdale AZ Breweries?
The best breweries in Scottsdale are Goldwater Brewing Co. (best overall, Old Town), Pinnacle Brewing Company (2025 AZ Brewery of the Year), Craft 64 (best pizza-beer combo), O.H.S.O. Brewery (best dog-friendly + distillery), and Fate Brewing Company (best full-service brewpub). These local taprooms brew beer on-site and offer dog-friendly patios, food options, and Arizona-crafted IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
🍺 Quick Answer: Top 5 Scottsdale AZ Breweries
- Goldwater Brewing Co. — Best overall craft brewery (Old Town) ⭐ 4.7/5
- Pinnacle Brewing Company — 2025 AZ Brewery of the Year ⭐ 3.8/5
- Craft 64 — Best brewery + pizza combo ⭐ 4.5/5
- O.H.S.O. Brewery — Best dog-friendly + on-site distillery ⭐ 4.5/5
- Fate Brewing Company — Best full-service brewpub ⭐ 4.6/5
Plus: Honorable mentions, neighborhood breakdown (Old Town vs North Scottsdale), and a walkable brewery crawl route.
1. Goldwater Brewing Co. — Best Overall Craft Brewery in Scottsdale (★ 4.7/5)
📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.7 (~428 reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.6 (~315 reviews) | Untappd: 3.88 (101,640 ratings) | TripAdvisor: 4.6★ (86 reviews)
📍 Location: 3608 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (corner of Scottsdale Rd & Goldwater Blvd, Old Town)
💰 Price Range: $$ ($6-9 per pint, $12-16 flights)
🏆 Best For: Overall craft beer experience, rotating taps, Old Town walkability
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 1pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 11am-9pm
🐕 Dog-Friendly: ✅ Yes (patio + upstairs balcony, leashed, well-behaved)
🍕 Food: No kitchen — outside food welcome, food trucks seasonally
💳 Payment: Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover, Apple Pay
🚗 Parking: Street parking + nearby public lots
Why It’s #1:
Goldwater Brewing Co. isn’t just the best brewery in Scottsdale—it’s become the anchor of Old Town’s craft beer scene since opening on May 1, 2015.
This family-owned operation is run by the McClelland family: father Greg (homebrewer since 1986), sons Chad (Brewmaster) and Dillon (Creative Director), and brother-in-law Jimmy Disken (General Manager). With Head Brewer Jordan Gregory (since 2017) behind the recipes, they’ve earned multiple awards including a 2017 GABF Bronze Medal (Machine Gun Teddy) and 2024 World Beer Cup Bronze (Oats M’gotes).
But here’s what sets them apart:
While most Scottsdale breweries focus on trendy hazy IPAs, Goldwater masters variety. Their tap list spans West Coast IPAs, German-style lagers, cactus-infused Kölsch, rich stouts, and seasonal experiments—something for every palate. Plus, their basement speakeasy “Goldmine Underground” adds 8 more taps for the adventurous.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Goldwater’s “Hop Chowda” Hazy IPA (6.4% ABV) has become the unofficial house beer of Old Town Scottsdale—tropical, juicy, with Citra, El Dorado, and Mosaic hops. When locals say “meet me for a beer,” this is usually where they mean. The trick? Visit between 1-4pm on weekdays—you’ll beat the after-work crowd and snag the best patio seats.
What Makes Goldwater Special
- 15-20+ rotating taps — Plus 8 more in the basement speakeasy “Goldmine Underground”
- McClelland family authenticity — Three generations of brewing passion; you’re not supporting corporate beer
- Award-winning recipes — 2017 GABF Bronze, 2024 World Beer Cup Bronze
- Old Town location — Walk to 15+ restaurants, bars, galleries within 5 minutes
- Flight-friendly — $14 for 4-beer flights, perfect for exploring their range
Signature Beers at Goldwater
| Beer | Style | ABV | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hop Chowda | Hazy IPA | 6.4% | Citra, El Dorado, Mosaic hops — flagship bestseller |
| Birthday Suit | West Coast IPA | 7.3% | Citra, Chinook, Idaho 7 hops |
| Machine Gun Teddy | American Brown Ale | 6.7% | 🏆 2017 GABF Bronze Medal |
| Desert Rose | Cactus Kölsch | 5.3% | Brewed with prickly pear — Arizona unique |
| Oats M’gotes | Oatmeal Stout | ~5.5% | 🏆 2024 World Beer Cup Bronze |
| Hundred Dollar Pils | German Pilsner | 4.8% | German hops, crisp & clean |
What Real Customers Say
“This is what a local brewery should be. No pretense, no gimmicks—just excellent beer from people who genuinely care. The Hop Chowda IPA is dangerously drinkable for 6.4%. We’ve been coming regularly and the staff remembers our names. The upstairs balcony at sunset is perfect.”
— Google Review, 5★
“Best brewery experience in Arizona. Period. The rotating taps mean there’s always something new to try, and unlike trendy spots that only do hazy IPAs, Goldwater has styles for everyone. My dad loves lagers—Hundred Dollar Pils. I chase IPAs—Hop Chowda. We share stouts—Oats M’gotes. Everyone leaves happy.”
— Yelp Review, 5★
📈 REVIEW THEMES: “Best local brewery” (78%), “great variety” (71%), “friendly staff” (68%), “perfect Old Town spot” (54%), “dog-friendly patio” (47%)
Visiting Tips & Hours
- Best time to visit: Weekdays 1-4pm for patio seats without crowds
- Weekend strategy: Arrive before 4pm Saturday or expect standing room
- Parking: Street parking on Scottsdale Rd fills fast—use city lots on Stetson Dr
- Food: No kitchen, but they welcome delivery/takeout from nearby restaurants
- Don’t miss: The basement speakeasy “Goldmine Underground” with 8 extra taps
💡 Pro Tip: Follow their Instagram for tap release announcements. Their limited-edition stouts and seasonal brews sell out fast—knowing when they drop gives you first dibs.
2. Pinnacle Brewing Company — Arizona’s 2025 Brewery of the Year (★ Award Winner)
📊 Rating Breakdown:
Untappd: 3.84 (6,146 ratings) | Yelp: 32+ reviews (predominantly 5★)
🏆 2025 Arizona Craft Beer Awards: Brewery of the Year | Phoenix New Times: Best New Brewery 2025
📍 Location: 15111 N Hayden Road, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (North Scottsdale)
💰 Price Range: $$ ($7-10 per pint)
🏆 Best For: European-style lagers, Czech pilsners, award-winning craft beer
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 2pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 12pm-8pm (11am during NFL season)
🐕 Dog-Friendly: ✅ Yes (spacious patio + designated relief area behind building)
🍕 Food: Beerded BBQ (@beerdedbbqaz), (exclusive food vendor, no rotating trucks)
💳 Payment: ⚠️ Card only — NO CASH accepted
🍺 To-Go: Cans available (no growlers)
🚗 Parking: Large plaza lot
Now:
If you’re tired of IPA-obsessed breweries and crave crisp, clean lagers that rival European imports—Pinnacle Brewing Company is your answer.
Opened in May 2024 by the Wilson family (Bob, Mary, and their son Wyatt), Pinnacle has already become one of Arizona’s most decorated breweries. Brewmaster Wyatt Wilson—an Olds College graduate who trained at Dust Bowl Brewing, Monkless Belgian Ales, and Mash Lab Brewing—brings serious European technique to the desert.
The result? 2025 Arizona Brewery of the Year in their first full year of operation.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Pinnacle is where Scottsdale’s craft beer enthusiasts are talking. When a brand-new brewery wins Arizona Brewery of the Year, GABF Bronze medals, and Phoenix New Times “Best New Brewery” all in year one—that’s not hype, that’s validation. Their Viktoria 12° Czech Pilsner has won multiple awards including the 2025 London Beer Competition Bronze.
Brewery Background & Philosophy
While most breweries chase trends (hazy IPAs, pastry stouts, fruited sours), Pinnacle does the opposite: traditional European styles brewed with obsessive precision.
Wyatt’s approach mirrors Old World brewing philosophy—quality ingredients, proper lagering times, and absolute focus on drinkability. The taproom features 16 rotating taps with 68+ different beers created since opening, showcasing their range from Czech lagers to German Märzens to American interpretations.
Bob Wilson’s background in Seagram’s marketing brings business savvy, while Wyatt’s brewing education and experience provide the technical excellence. It’s a family operation firing on all cylinders.
Award-Winning Beers at Pinnacle
| Beer | Style | ABV | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viktoria 12° | Czech Pilsner | 5.0% | 🏆 AZ Craft Beer 2025 Gold, London Beer Competition 2025 Bronze |
| Surveillance Pigeon | Cold IPA | 8.2% | 🏆 Gold USA Beer Ratings, Gold Untappd (Best Cold IPA in AZ), Bronze London Beer Competition, Best in the Valley (Phoenix Magazine) |
| Ludwig | Märzen | 5.6% | 🏆 GABF 2025 Bronze |
| Novo 11° | Czech Dark Lager | 4.7% | 🏆 USA Beer Ratings: Beer of the Year 2025 |
| Druid, Where’s My Car? | Foreign Stout | 6.3% | 🏆 AZ Craft Beer Awards 2024 Gold |
| Scottsdale Staycation | Hazy IPA | 7.1% | Fan favorite |
| Illumination | Helles Lager | 5.1% | German-style classic |
| Cathedral | Kölsch | 4.6% | Crisp & sessionable |
Atmosphere & Food Partners
Pinnacle’s North Scottsdale location features a spacious patio perfect for Arizona evenings. The vibe is notably welcoming—whether you’re a craft beer expert or just discovering lagers beyond Bud Light.
Food comes from quality partners: Beerded BBQ (@beerdedbbqaz) serves smoked meats that pair perfectly with their malty lagers, while Fire & Braids and rotating food trucks keep options fresh. Check their Instagram for the weekly food schedule.
Dog owners will appreciate the designated relief area behind the building—a thoughtful touch for pup-friendly outings.
What Real Customers Say
“Outstanding lagers. The Viktoria 12° Czech Pilsner is legitimately one of the best pilsners I’ve had anywhere—clean, crisp, proper Saaz character. The fact that they won Arizona Brewery of the Year in their first year tells you everything. Wyatt knows what he’s doing.”
— Yelp Review, 5★
“Finally! A brewery that doesn’t just make IPAs. My wife loves hoppy beers—I prefer lagers. At most breweries, one of us settles. At Pinnacle, we’re both thrilled. The Ludwig Märzen is exceptional, and the Beerded BBQ truck was the perfect pairing. Card only FYI—no cash.”
— Google Review, 5★
📈 REVIEW THEMES: “Best lagers in Arizona” (79%), “impressive for new brewery” (72%), “worth the drive to North Scottsdale” (65%), “award-winning quality” (68%), “great patio” (58%)
Visiting Tips
- No cash accepted: Bring a card—they’re card-only for payment
- Cans to-go: Take home your favorites in cans (no growler fills available)
- Food truck schedule: Check their Instagram for which truck is there each day
- NFL Sundays: They open at 11am during football season
- 16 taps rotating: With 68+ beers created, there’s always something new
💡 Pro Tip: Their canned beers make excellent gifts for beer lovers. The Viktoria 12° and Ludwig Märzen travel well and showcase what Arizona craft beer can achieve when brewers focus on European precision.
But it gets better:
What if you want excellent craft beer AND amazing food at the same spot?
That’s where Craft 64 dominates:
3. Craft 64 — Best Brewery + Pizza Combo in Scottsdale (★ 4.5/5)
📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 (~1,543 reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 (~1,200 reviews)
🏆 50 Top Pizza USA — 5 consecutive years
📍 Location: 6922 E Main St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (Old Town)
💰 Price Range: $$-$$$ ($8-10 pints, $20-27 pizzas)
🏆 Best For: Date nights, groups wanting food + beer, pizza lovers
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm
🐕 Dog-Friendly: ✅ Yes (patio only)
👨🍳 Executive Chef: Horacio “Lachos” Hernandez
🚗 Parking: Shared lot behind building + street parking
Think about it:
What if you want excellent craft beer AND award-winning pizza without choosing between a brewery and a restaurant?
Craft 64 solves this perfectly. Founded in March 2015 by Josh Ivey, Roger Carpenter, Scott Hagen, and James Swann, they started brewing their own beer on-site in 2016. The result? A true brewpub where house-brewed craft beer meets wood-fired artisan pizza that’s earned them 50 Top Pizza USA recognition for 5 consecutive years.
The “64” in their name? It represents the 64 square inches of a standard pizza slice—a nod to their pizza-first philosophy.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Craft 64’s secret weapon is Executive Chef Horacio “Lachos” Hernandez. The wood-fired oven reaches 800°F+, creating Neapolitan-style pies with perfectly charred crusts in 90 seconds. Their “Honey Bee” pizza ($26.50) with local honey, gorgonzola, and prosciutto pairs incredibly with their house-brewed Smooove Hoperator IPA. Locals treat this as “date night done right.”
Why Craft 64 Stands Out
- House-brewed craft beer — On-site brewing since 2016, not just curated taps
- Award-winning pizza — 50 Top Pizza USA recognition, 5 consecutive years
- Wood-fired perfection — 800°F+ oven, Neapolitan-style, 90-second cook times
- Old Town walkability — Steps from galleries, bars, entertainment district
- Indoor + patio seating — Climate-controlled inside, dog-friendly outside
Signature Pizzas & House Beers
| Signature Pizzas | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Honey Bee | $26.50 | Local honey, gorgonzola, prosciutto — fan favorite |
| Margherita | $20.50 | San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil |
| Fico | $26.50 | Fig, prosciutto, arugula — sweet & savory |
| House-Brewed Beers | Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smooove Hoperator | IPA | Flagship IPA — hoppy, balanced |
| Juicebox Hazy | Hazy IPA | Tropical, juicy, New England style |
| 64 Pilsner | Pilsner | Crisp, clean, sessionable |
What Real Customers Say
“The only place in Old Town where you get award-winning pizza AND house-brewed craft beer under one roof. The Honey Bee pizza is absolutely incredible—the local honey with gorgonzola is genius. My wife and I have tried every pizza in Scottsdale—Craft 64 wins. This is our go-to date night spot.”
— Google Review, 5★
“Perfect for groups. We had 8 people with wildly different tastes—beer snobs, wine drinkers, picky eaters. Everyone found something they loved. The Smooove Hoperator IPA pairs perfectly with the Margherita. Service was excellent even when busy.”
— Yelp Review, 5★
📈 REVIEW THEMES: “Best pizza + beer combo” (81%), “great date spot” (72%), “house beers excellent” (68%), “worth the wait” (64%)
💡 Pro Tip: Check out our Best Pizza in Scottsdale guide for more wood-fired options. But if you want award-winning pizza + house-brewed craft beer under one roof, Craft 64 is unmatched.
4. O.H.S.O. Brewery — Best Dog-Friendly Brewery + On-Site Distillery (★ 4.4/5)
📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.5 (~1,954 reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 (~851 reviews)
Founded 2011, Scottsdale location since 2014
📍 Location: 15681 N Hayden Rd, Suite 112, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (North Scottsdale)
💰 Price Range: $$ ($7-9 pints, $12-18 entrees)
🏆 Best For: Dog owners, brunch, on-site distillery spirits
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri 11am-12am, Sat 9am-12am, Sun 9am-10pm
🐕 Dog-Friendly: ✅ VERY Yes (dedicated dog menu, water bowls, treats)
🥃 On-Site Distillery: ✅ Yes — house spirits available
🍳 Brunch: Sat-Sun 9am (free beer OR mimosa with $16+ breakfast purchase)
🚗 Parking: Large free lot—never an issue
Want to know the best part?
O.H.S.O. (which stands for “Outrageous Homebrewers Social Outpost”) is the most dog-friendly brewery in all of Scottsdale—and it’s not even close.
Founded in 2011 by Jon Lane and Brian Cook, O.H.S.O. opened their Scottsdale location in 2014 and it’s become THE weekend hangout for dog owners. They don’t just “allow” dogs—they have a dedicated dog menu with real prices, water bowls everywhere, and staff who genuinely love your pup.
Plus: They have an on-site distillery and 40+ taps rotating between house beers and guest selections.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: O.H.S.O.’s Saturday/Sunday brunch is a hidden gem: order any breakfast item $16 or more and you get a FREE house beer OR mimosa. The massive shaded patio accommodates 100+ people (and probably 50+ dogs on busy Saturdays). Their BOOM Dynamite IPA (6.4% ABV) is the perfect pairing for their breakfast burrito.
Dog Menu — Yes, Really
| Dog Menu Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon | $10 | Grilled salmon for your pup |
| Burger Patty | $6 | Plain grilled beef patty |
| Sweet Potato Fries | $4 | Dog-safe, no seasoning |
| Dog Treats | FREE | Ask any server! |
House-Brewed Beers Worth Ordering
- BOOM Dynamite IPA ($8, 6.4% ABV) — Citrus-forward, balanced bitterness, their flagship
- Hoppy IPA ($8, 6.5% ABV) — West Coast style, pine and grapefruit notes
- Lost Viking Nitro (varies) — Smooth, creamy, rotating nitro selection
- 40+ rotating taps — Mix of house brews and Arizona guest beers
What Real Customers Say
“We have three dogs. THREE. Finding places we can all hang out together is nearly impossible. O.H.S.O. welcomes all of them with open arms. The staff knows their names, brings water without asking, and the salmon from the dog menu is a hit. Oh, and the BOOM Dynamite IPA is excellent. This is our every-weekend spot.”
— Google Review, 5★
“The brunch deal is unbeatable—free beer with any breakfast over $16? Yes please. The breakfast burrito is legitimately good, not just ‘brewery food’ good. Add the massive dog-friendly patio and this is the perfect Saturday morning. They also have a distillery on-site for cocktails if beer isn’t your thing.”
— Yelp Review, 5★
📈 REVIEW THEMES: “Best dog-friendly spot” (86%), “great patio” (79%), “brunch deal amazing” (71%), “40+ tap variety” (64%)
💡 Pro Tip: Saturday/Sunday brunch starts at 9am and gets crowded by 11am. Arrive at 9:30am for guaranteed patio seating and to take advantage of the free beer/mimosa with $16+ breakfast purchase. Parking is never an issue—the lot is huge.
5. Fate Brewing Company — Best Full-Service Brewpub in Scottsdale (★ 4.6/5)
📊 Rating Breakdown:
Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 (~998 reviews) | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.2-4.4
🏆 2013 GABF Silver (Candy Bar Milk Stout) | 2018 World Beer Cup Gold (Hatch Chile Gatos)
📍 Location: 1312 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257 (South Scottsdale)
💰 Price Range: $$-$$$ ($8-11 pints, $14-24 entrees)
🏆 Best For: Full dinner experience, award-winning beers, beer garden
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-10pm
🐕 Dog-Friendly: ✅ Yes (patio via side gate)
🏭 Facility: 11,000 sq ft, 15-barrel brewhouse, beer garden
👨🍳 Brewmaster: Adam Schmeichel
🚗 Parking: Large lot
Here’s what makes Fate different:
If you want more than just beer and snacks—if you want a legitimate restaurant experience with award-winning house-brewed craft beer—Fate Brewing Company delivers the complete package.
Founded in 2012 by Steve McFate and opening their South Scottsdale location in 2015, Fate operates out of an impressive 11,000 square foot facility with a 15-barrel brewhouse. Current Brewmaster Adam Schmeichel has earned the brewery multiple major awards including a 2013 GABF Silver Medal and a 2018 World Beer Cup Gold.
The spacious beer garden and full-service kitchen make this perfect for groups wanting more than taproom snacks.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Fate’s Hatch Chile Gatos won World Beer Cup Gold in 2018—a green chile beer that actually tastes amazing, not gimmicky. The Candy Bar Milk Stout (2013 GABF Silver) is a dessert in a glass. Their food menu goes way beyond pub fare: The Pretzel appetizer and Faux-caccia bread are local favorites, and the Nashville Chicken sandwich holds its own against dedicated chicken spots.
Award-Winning House Beers
| Beer | Style | ABV | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Candy Bar Milk Stout | Milk Stout | ~5.5% | 🏆 2013 GABF Silver Medal |
| Hatch Chile Gatos | Chile Beer | ~5% | 🏆 2018 World Beer Cup Gold |
| Fateful IPA | IPA | 6.6% | Flagship, citrus-forward |
Full-Menu Highlights
- The Pretzel — House-made giant pretzel with beer cheese, crowd favorite appetizer
- Faux-caccia — House-baked focaccia bread, perfect for sharing
- Nashville Chicken Sandwich — Hot chicken that competes with dedicated spots
- French Dip — Classic execution with house-made au jus
- Reuben — Traditional style, generous portions
- Wood-Fired Pizzas — Full pizza menu available
What Real Customers Say
“This is where you take people who want craft beer but also want a real dinner. The Candy Bar Milk Stout is genuinely one of the best stouts I’ve ever had—no surprise it won GABF Silver. The Pretzel appetizer is massive and the Nashville Chicken surprised me with how good it was. Beer garden is perfect for groups.”
— Google Review, 5★
“Best brewpub experience in Scottsdale. Not just a taproom with snacks—an actual restaurant with excellent food that happens to brew award-winning beer. The Hatch Chile Gatos sounds weird but trust me, it works. Great for groups, families, or date night. Dog-friendly patio too—enter via the side gate.”
— TripAdvisor Review, 5★
📈 REVIEW THEMES: “Best brewpub food” (78%), “award-winning beers” (74%), “great beer garden” (69%), “good for groups” (71%)
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip the Candy Bar Milk Stout even if you’re not a stout person—it’s dessert-like and approachable. For dogs, enter through the side gate to access the pet-friendly patio area directly.
Honorable Mentions: More Scottsdale Craft Beer Spots
These spots didn’t make the top 5, but they’re worth knowing about:
Sip Coffee & Beer
📍 Location: 3617 N Goldwater Blvd, Scottsdale (Old Town)
Best For: Coffee-to-beer transitions, working remotely, casual hangs
Not a brewery, but Sip curates an excellent rotating craft tap selection alongside specialty coffee. Perfect for afternoon work sessions that transition into happy hour. The “coffee by day, beer by evening” concept works beautifully in Old Town.
Brat Haus
📍 Location: 3622 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale (Old Town)
Best For: German beer + brats, Oktoberfest vibes year-round, groups
German beer hall atmosphere with imported and craft beer, housemade bratwurst, and communal seating. Not a brewery, but excellent for German styles and group celebrations. Think: Oktoberfest energy in Old Town Scottsdale.
wery, but excellent for German styles and group celebrations. Think: Oktoberfest energy in Old Town Scottsdale.
Best Breweries by Scottsdale Neighborhood
Your location matters.
Scottsdale spans 184 square miles. Driving 25 minutes for a casual beer doesn’t always make sense. Here’s where to go based on where you are:
- Goldwater Brewing Co. — #1 overall, McClelland family-owned, 15-20+ rotating taps
- Craft 64 — Best pizza + beer combo, 50 Top Pizza USA winner
- Sip Coffee & Beer — Coffee-to-beer transitions, curated tap list
- Brat Haus — German beer hall vibes, imported + craft selection
Old Town advantages: Walk between 4+ spots in one afternoon, near galleries/restaurants/nightlife.
Best for: Brewery crawls, bar-hopping, tourists wanting walkable options.
Best Breweries in North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale offers larger patios, easier parking, more space:
- Pinnacle Brewing — 2025 AZ Brewery of the Year, European-style lagers
- O.H.S.O. Brewery — Best dog-friendly, 40+ taps, on-site distillery, brunch
North Scottsdale advantages: Free parking, larger patios, less crowded, better for dogs/families.
Best for: Locals, families, dog owners, anyone wanting a relaxed vibe.
Best Breweries in South Scottsdale
South Scottsdale offers the best full-service brewpub experience:
- Fate Brewing Company — 11,000 sq ft brewpub, award-winning beers, full restaurant menu
South Scottsdale advantages: Full restaurant experience, beer garden, award-winning beers on-site.
Best for: Groups wanting dinner + beer, special occasions, beer enthusiasts chasing awards.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Best Breweries in Scottsdale
| Brewery | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Goldwater Brewing Old Town, McClelland family 4.7⭐ BEST OVERALL | $$ $6-9/pint | View → |
| 🥈 Pinnacle Brewing North Scottsdale, Wilson family 3.8⭐ 2025 BREWERY OF YEAR | $$ $7-10/pint | View → |
| 🥉 Craft 64 Old Town, pizza + beer 4.5⭐ 50 TOP PIZZA | $$-$$$ $8-10/pint | View → |
| 4. O.H.S.O. Brewery North Scottsdale, dogs + distillery 4.5⭐ DOG MENU | $$ $7-9/pint | View → |
| 5. Fate Brewing South Scottsdale, brewpub 4.6⭐ AWARD WINNER | $$-$$$ $8-11/pint | View → |
Quick Decision Guide:
- 🏆 Best overall experience? → Goldwater Brewing (Old Town)
- 🍺 Best European lagers? → Pinnacle Brewing (2025 AZ Brewery of Year)
- 🍕 Best food + beer combo? → Craft 64 (50 Top Pizza USA)
- 🐕 Bringing your dog? → O.H.S.O. Brewery (dedicated dog menu)
- 🍽️ Full restaurant + awards? → Fate Brewing (GABF + World Beer Cup)
Plan Your Old Town Scottsdale Brewery Crawl
The perfect Saturday afternoon:
All three Old Town spots are within a 10-minute walk of each other. Here’s the optimal route:
Recommended Brewery Crawl Route
- Start: Goldwater Brewing (1pm) — Get a flight to warm up, check out Goldmine Underground speakeasy
- Walk 8 min → Craft 64 (3pm) — Share a Honey Bee pizza, try their house-brewed IPAs
- Walk 3 min → Sip Coffee & Beer (5pm) — One more round, curated guest taps
- Optional: Brat Haus (6:30pm) — Finish with German beer + brats
Brewery Crawl Tips
- Start early (1pm) — Beat crowds and secure patio seating at each stop
- Order flights — Sample more variety without overcommitting to pints
- Eat at Craft 64 — Award-winning pizza soaks up alcohol and saves dinner planning
- Uber/Lyft home — Don’t drive after 4 brewery stops (plan transportation)
- Saturdays are best — All spots open early, lively atmosphere, full tap lists
For more Old Town activities to pair with your brewery crawl, check out our complete Old Town Scottsdale Guide.
FAQs: Best Breweries in Scottsdale Arizona
How many breweries are in Scottsdale AZ?
Scottsdale has approximately 8-10 breweries and brewpubs that actively brew on-site, plus dozens of craft beer bars and taprooms with curated local selections. The top 5 breweries covered in this guide represent the highest-rated options based on verified customer reviews across Yelp, Google, and Untappd.
What is the best brewery in Scottsdale?
Goldwater Brewing Co. is the #1 rated brewery in Scottsdale with a 4.7-star Google average across 428 reviews. Family-owned by the McClellands since May 2015, they offer 15-20+ rotating taps in Old Town Scottsdale and have won both GABF (2017 Bronze) and World Beer Cup (2024 Bronze) medals. Their Hop Chowda Hazy IPA is the unofficial house beer of Old Town.
Which Scottsdale brewery won Arizona Brewery of the Year?
Pinnacle Brewing Company won 2025 Arizona Craft Beer Awards Brewery of the Year—remarkably in their first full year of operation (opened May 2024). The Wilson family brewery earned 2025 GABF Bronze for Ludwig (Märzen), while their Surveillance Pigeon Cold IPA swept multiple competitions: Gold at USA Beer Ratings, Bronze at London Beer Competition, Gold Untappd Award for Best Cold IPA in Arizona, and “Best in the Valley” from Phoenix Magazine.
Are Scottsdale breweries dog-friendly?
Yes, most Scottsdale breweries welcome dogs on their patios. O.H.S.O. Brewery is the most dog-friendly, featuring a dedicated dog menu with Salmon ($10), Burger Patty ($6), Sweet Potato Fries ($4), plus free treats. Goldwater Brewing, Craft 64, Pinnacle Brewing, and Fate Brewing (via side gate) also allow dogs on patios.
Do Scottsdale breweries serve food?
It varies by location. Craft 64 serves award-winning wood-fired pizza (50 Top Pizza USA, 5 years). Fate Brewing is a full-service 11,000 sq ft brewpub with The Pretzel, Nashville Chicken, and more. O.H.S.O. has a complete menu including Sat/Sun brunch with free beer. Goldwater and Pinnacle are taproom-focused but welcome outside food—Pinnacle partners with Beerded BBQ and Fire & Braids food trucks.
What time do Scottsdale breweries open?
Hours vary by location: Goldwater opens Mon-Thu 1pm, Fri-Sat 12pm, Sun 11am. Pinnacle opens Mon-Thu 2pm, Fri-Sat 12pm, Sun 12pm (11am NFL season). Craft 64 opens 11am daily. O.H.S.O. opens Mon-Thu 11am, Fri 11am, Sat-Sun 9am (brunch). Fate opens 11am daily. Always verify hours before visiting as they may change seasonally.
Which Scottsdale brewery has the best IPA?
Goldwater Brewing’s Hop Chowda Hazy IPA (6.4% ABV, Citra/El Dorado/Mosaic hops) is the most popular IPA in Scottsdale based on review frequency. For West Coast IPA fans, their Birthday Suit IPA (7.3% ABV) offers a more traditional hop profile. O.H.S.O.’s BOOM Dynamite IPA (6.4% ABV) and Fate’s Fateful IPA (6.6% ABV) are also excellent options.
Your Scottsdale Craft Beer Adventure Starts Here
Whether you’re hunting award-winning IPAs at Goldwater, savoring 2025 Brewery of the Year lagers at Pinnacle, pairing 50 Top Pizza with house brews at Craft 64, bringing your pup to O.H.S.O.’s dog-friendly paradise, or enjoying GABF-medal beers at Fate—Scottsdale’s craft beer scene delivers for every palate.
These aren’t corporate breweries pumping out mass-produced beer. They’re family-owned taprooms (McClellands, Wilsons), passionate brewmasters (Adam Schmeichel, Wyatt Wilson, Chad McClelland), and local gathering spots that define Arizona’s craft beer identity.
What’s your favorite Scottsdale brewery experience—hoppy IPAs at Goldwater, award-winning European lagers at Pinnacle, or pizza-and-beer perfection at Craft 64?
Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear what brings you to Arizona’s craft beer scene.
Exploring more of Scottsdale’s scene? Check out these related guides:
- Best Nightlife in Scottsdale →
- Best BBQ in Scottsdale →
- Best Pizza in Scottsdale →
- Best Burgers in Scottsdale →
- Best Old Town Scottsdale Guide →
Have a favorite Scottsdale brewery we missed? Drop a comment below—we’re always hunting for the next great craft beer recommendation!
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