Foodie Travel: Discover the craft beer capital of America

Home to more than 140 breweries, San Diego’s craft beer offering is renowned. Known as the craft beer capital of America, there is no shortage of ales, lagers and stouts for travellers to try. With the 13th annual San Diego Beer Week recently finished,  take a look at some of the best independent breweries to discover in the city.

Karl Strauss Brewing Company:

The first craft brewery to open in San Diego, Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been serving San Diegans since 1989 and is responsible for kickstarting the city’s craft beer industry. The team have since gone on to brew hundreds of beers in a variety of different styles and are regular winners at prestigious events, including the Great American Beer Festival. www.karlstrauss.com

Hillcrest Brewing Company:

Located in the heart of the Hillcrest neighbourhood, Hillcrest Brewing Company proudly holds the title as the first gay brewery in the world. Its craft beers have tongue-in-cheek names, such as Banana Hammock Scotch Ale and Crotch Rocket Irish Style Red Ale, and the bar hosts a ‘hoppy hour’ with discounted drinks every day. hillcrestbrewingcompany.com

Ballast Point:

Started in 1996, Ballast Point prides itself on creating beers that use quality ingredients and innovative techniques. With humble beginnings in Little Italy, the brewery now has tap rooms around California and is set to open a new location in San Francisco at the end of the year. Year-round brews include Swingin’ Friar Ale – the official craft beer of the San Diego Padres baseball team – or there’s seasonal varieties to try, such as Pumpkin Down which is available throughout autumn. ballastpoint.com

For more information about San Diego, visit www.sandiego.org.