Where to Grab a Beer in Wauwatosa

We’re pretty big on beer here. This is Wisconsin, after all.
 

In Wauwatosa, a pint might come with a patio, a pinball machine, a food truck or live music under the trees. The city’s beer scene ranges from small-batch breweries to neighborhood taprooms pouring hard-to-find Wisconsin favorites.

Many of these spots are close to Wauwatosa’s shops, restaurants, parks and trails, making it easy to add a beer stop to an afternoon of exploring. Gather your buds, order something local and discover where Tosa goes for a cold one.

Big Head Brewing Co.

This laid-back microbrewery keeps a rotating selection of craft beers on draft, poured to please. The spacious tasting room has darts, pinball and cornhole, giving you plenty to do between rounds. Live music fills the space most weekends, with performances ranging from folk to jazz and everything in between.

Draft & Vessel

Draft & Vessel’s wide-ranging menu features standout beers from Wisconsin and beyond, along with craft cocktails, wine and mocktails. Order a familiar favorite or try something unexpected, then settle in with one of the taproom’s board games. When the weather cooperates, the patio is an inviting place to linger over another pour.

The Explorium Brewpub

The Explorium makes it easy to turn a beer stop into a full meal. Its expansive tap list is backed by a complete kitchen menu with plenty of gluten-free options. Located at the Mayfair Collection, it’s a welcome place to recharge after an afternoon of shopping — or to reward the friend who came along.

Gathering Place Brewing Company

Easygoing and neighborhood-minded, Gathering Place focuses on European-inspired styles with a modern American twist. Board games encourage guests to stay awhile, while the dog-friendly patio makes room for another member of the group. Neighboring Maggio’s Wood Fired Pizza offers an easy food option. When the weather turns cold, Gathering Place brings out keg curling on its heated patio.

The Landing at Hoyt Park

Tucked among the trees in Hoyt Park, The Landing serves beer, casual snacks and live music in a relaxed, open-air setting. Stop by after walking the park’s trails or cooling off at TOSA Pool. On a warm evening, there are few better places in Wauwatosa to settle in with a drink and a friend.

Lion’s Tail Brewing Co.

This Neenah-based brewery produces interesting, well-balanced beers with big flavors. Outside, the lively beer garden offers communal picnic tables and regular food truck visits year-round. Kids and friendly dogs are welcome, making it an easygoing stop for groups.

Ray’s Growler Gallery

Part neighborhood taproom and part treasure hunt for beer enthusiasts, Ray’s is known for exclusive drafts, limited releases and draft-only pours that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Come curious, ask what’s new and don’t be surprised if you leave with a new Wisconsin favorite. Before heading home, stop downstairs at Ray’s Wine & Spirits to pick up a few favorites for later.

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