The 5 Best Breweries Around Lake Tahoe Region

Beer is more than a beverage in South Lake Tahoe — it’s a way to connect with a lager around a fire pit after a day on the mountain or a cold ale sipped slowly on a sunny afternoon. Indeed, the region thrives on its craft beer and small-batch brewing. The Best of Tahoe recognizes the breweries that keep the taps flowing, the fermenters humming and the flavors bold. Cheers!

South Lake Brewing Company

South Lake Brewing Company was built on a love of Tahoe — and of beer. Founded by husband-and-wife team Chris and Nicole Smith, this brewery has grown from a personal passion into a central hub for locals and visitors alike. They brew everything in-house, producing a lineup that includes IPAs, porters, lagers and limited-release small-batch beers. What sets South Lake apart is the clear connection between the product and the place. Each beer is thoughtfully named, often inspired by Tahoe’s landscape, with labels that reflect the natural beauty around them. And the brewery hosts regular community events, food trucks and live music.

Sidellis Lake Tahoe

Sidellis Lake Tahoe has never aimed to be the biggest — just one of the most inventive. Founded by two friends with a shared background in brewing and carpentry, this small-scale operation places emphasis on creativity, detail and quality. Their tap list often includes unique offerings like sour ales, dark saisons and barrel-aged experiments alongside more familiar favorites. Inside the brewery, the vibe leans cozy and welcoming, with a small kitchen serving thoughtful pub fare and staff who know their beers inside and out. The name Sidellis is a combination of the owners’ names, and that personal touch carries through in everything they do.

Cold Water Brewery and Grill

Cold Water Brewery and Grill blends a full-service dining experience with a serious commitment to house-brewed beer. Their 7-barrel all-grain brewing system turns out a core lineup of beers known as “Tahoe Originals,” each brewed on-site by a dedicated in-house team. From pale ales to ambers and more hop-forward choices, the beers are designed to pair well with the food — which is no afterthought. The menu leans toward elevated pub fare, with scratch-made ingredients and rotating specials. The space itself is open and social, with large windows, communal tables and a bar that encourages lingering.

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