When most people visit Orlando they hit the theme parks, maybe make it over the beach and then catch a flight back home. But for beer connoisseurs there’s an entirely different community to explore. Whether you’re into ales or lagers, you can find a place to expand your horizons with a unique brew at one of many craft beer bars in Orlando.
Orlando Brewing Company:
1301 Atlanta Ave
Orlando, FL
(407) 872-1117
Located in an unassuming warehouse district, parking is sometimes a pain – but worth the effort. They carry their cadre of regular beers (Blonde Ale, Brown Ale, Pale Ale, Porter, Stout, etc) in addition to seasonal brews like for example a Maibock (hard to find, springy German lager) or the Doble IPA (aromatic, complex, alcoholic). All the beers are local and organic, and if you can catch a brewery tour, definitely do that. The bar itself is pretty neat. Spartan, spacious, but charming. The bartenders work only for tips (they’re volunteers!) so make sure to tip extra well. Thursday is Ladies Night: $3 pints for gals. But the men folk way outnumber the girls.
Redlight, Redlight:
745 Bennett Rd.
Orlando, FL
(407) 893-9832
It could be argued that Redlight, Redlight started the craft beer trend in Orlando. It used to be located in a tiny space above a bakery in Winter Park. However, as it got more popular it had to expand to an old Mexican restaurant near Baldwin Park. The expansion and increased popularity means a lot more people. Good for business, bad for service. Sometimes elbowing your way up to the bar is difficult. But, if you’re looking for a spot to see and be seen while drinking some of the most unusual beers around, this is what you will have to endure. They’ve got it all from PBR to obscure rarities like Flemish Wild Ale and about 89 other bottles. Parking is a pain, come early and watch for Tow Away signs — you will get towed.
Eola Wine Company:
136 Park Avenue
Winter Park, FL
(407) 647-9103
If you’re looking to take a breather from your shopping along Park Ave, duck into Eola Wine Company for a great beer list (and a pretty bar). Of course, they have a huge wine selection too. Beers include Canadian powerhouse Unibroue’s La Fin Du Monde and fun IPA’s from Dogfish Head in Delaware. The bartenders are always friendly and willing to let you sample a little bit to make sure you get a beer you will love. Snacks are off-the-charts delicious. Try pairing your beer with a cheese plate for the ultimate experience. The downtown location is also very good, but the bar is smaller.
Bull & Bush:
2408 E Robinson St
Orlando, FL
(407) 896-7546
Stellar place to grab a pint. It’s definitely a “neighborhood pub” experience. Cool booths, cask conditioned beers (Old Thumper is a favorite) and reasonable prices. If there’s football on, don’t expect any music. The guys here are serious about their football. If you’re not into sport, there’s always darts and chatting about beer with the bartender.
The Milk Bar/Social Chameleon:
2406 E Robinson
Orlando, FL
(407) 715-2138
Owned by the same guy, there’s a great beer selection at both spots. Depends on what you’re in the mood for. Dinner? Hit up Social Chameleon (try the crab flatbread!!). If you just want to chill and play some board games, mosey on down to The Milk Bar. It’s named so because it sits in the “Milk District” of Orlando. Beers are unique (Brooklyn Brewery, Dogfish Head, Lost Coast, etc) and in the $3-5 range. Glasses of wine looked to be about $6. Tapas are about $3-5 and Pizzas $5-10 depending on size and toppings. Very affordable.
Craft Beer Bars in Orlando, there are plenty of them to try… and a couple more I haven’t mentioned here. If I forgot your favorite, put it in the comments!
