Hop Headliners

Cheers to Salem beers! Here’s where you can grab a Salem-brewed pint this summer —

When it comes to Pacific Northwest beer, it’s hard to ignore our neighbors to the north. Portland may boast some big names, but Salem needn’t have an inferiority complex. There’s a lot to enjoy along our stretch of I-5, and this list only scratches the foamy surface. From classic ambers to fruity, hazy IPAs, Salem’s breweries are keeping happy hour interesting. Summer is the perfect time to make the rounds, as our breweries have some of the best outdoor seating in town. So whether you’re into sours, stouts, goldens or lagers, get out there and support your local brewers. Try a pint (or a flight) and enjoy summer while it lasts.

Santiam Brewing

Do you prefer your pint with a side of shepherd’s pie? Santiam is your place. It is, hands down, the place to find a great English-style locally crafted brew in Salem, served alongside classic English pub food. If you’re looking for a decently British experience to make you hanker for the latest PBS mystery, go for whatever’s on cask. The Spitfire ESB on cask is everything you want in an English ale—creamy, malty, and hopped just enough. (If a classic English pale ale is what you crave, their Boudicea (at only 4.2%) is superb paired with some sticky toffee pudding.
2544 19th St SE
SantiamBrewing.com, 503-689-1260

Xicha Brewing Co.

If tacos and beer are your love language, head to West Salem. Yes, Xicha Brewing Co.’s margarita flight is not to be missed, but their beers are a must-try as well. The beer flight here is a great option, allowing you to try their broad selection—from guava or passionfruit to classic IPAs and lagers—there’s truly something for everyone. It all pairs beautifully with every bite of their uniquely delicious Latinx food menu, but if you’re looking to pop a lime wedge in a classic Mexican-style lager the Chela is for you. All this and a cheerful outdoor seating—your lazy, summer days are sorted.
576 Patterson St NW, Suite 140
XichaBrewing.com, 503-990-8292

For Tomorrow We Die Brewing Co.

The newest addition to Salem’s beer scene, For Tomorrow We Die should officially enter your brewpub rotation. Located in the former SAW brewery, their selection of house brews has expanded to include: an IPA, a stout, a golden and an amber. The new décor is fun and welcoming, with quirky touches and plenty of seating. The menu is all Taproot, making it their third location in town. So, dive into those Taproot brussels and sip on an Amber Project, or go for a bowl of crispy edamame and IPA as the weather warms up—or maybe sample both.
2315 25th St SE
Facebook.com/FTWDBrewing, 971-701-6102

Gilgamesh Brewing

Gilgamesh is one of those quintessential Northwest breweries that just feels like home. With a cozy, wood-clad vibe and all the giant pretzels and beer cheese you want, it boasts some classic, stalwart Salem brews along with an intriguing list of seasonal options and collaborations. The Hopscotch ale is a warming “Wee Heavy” Scotch ale, but the Mamba is tradition. Brewed with black tea and a hint of tangerine zest and rye, the Mamba is packed with unique flavors and is low on hops. That combined with only 1 International Bitterness Unit (IBU), it’s the easy pick for beer skeptics and beer lovers alike.
2065 Madrona Ave SE
GilgameshBrewing.com, 503-584-1789

B2 Taphouse & Brewery

B2 is fantastic any time of year, but especially on cool summer evenings when their doors open and the fire pit is in full swing. The rotating tap list is a who’s who of great West Coast breweries, but the B2 house options are diverse, tasty and worth your attention. Their Class is in Sesh session ale has passionate devotees (bring it back!), but the Hop in the Back Red has a great balance of malt flavor and hops, and is perfect with a burger. In addition to the red, there are plenty of IPAs to choose from, just check the live tap list to see if they’ve got your favorites.
1170 Boone Rd SE
B2Taphouse.net, 503-991-5369

Bine Valley Brewing

Nestled among the multiple storefront strips in Salem’s brewery district, Bine Valley has the unmistakable and welcome aroma of an active brewery that draws you into the minimalist and cheerful bar. The 5 oz samples make it easy to try a variety off the menu and are well worth the price. The Stout is a favorite, and at just above 4% alcohol by volume (ABV) it drinks like the classic Irish version. While for lager fans, the basic Vienna Lager is a great pick. When the weather warms up, the Hazy Pale is citrusy and bright. There are plenty of bites to share alongside your beer, including wood-fired pizza that will instantly have you planning your next trip.
2027 25th St SE
BineValleyBrewing.com, 503-990-7877