With loads of natural light and an industrial-chic feel, Highland Park Brewery's Chinatown warehouse offers larger and more airy digs than that of its Hermosillo taproom in Highland Park (though we've got a place in our hearts for that one, too). Picnic-bench-style seating provides a great place to perch while enjoying HPB's newest beers, as does that prime patio across from Los Angeles State Historic Park.
The Northeast L.A. brewery’s first tasting room lives up to the anticipation, offering a full kitchen, plus double the tanks, allowing the team to crank out more experimental, funky and collaborative new beers—perfect for washing down the gourmet bar food that has no business being as good as it is. (We’re looking at you, cheese curds with green-chile crema.) The Chinatown spot is nothing groundbreaking in terms of design or vibe, but it's one of the most comfortable, spacious and friendly spots to grab a beer—and it's great beer, at that.
Vitals
The scene: Sure, you've got brewery bros packing the place on release days, but by and large, the cavernous setting means there's enough room for everyone—and that means you'll see all walks of life here, kids and pups included.
Good for: This is a great spot to hit with a group, considering the large picnic tables and the fact that you'll want to try a little bit of everything on tap. At night, the taproom feels much more subdued, making it a great place for a quiet, casual date or a nightcap.
Drink this: The board swaps out brews frequently, but we're partial to the barrel-aged Lingua Franca sour ale this summer. Another warm-weather quencher we're digging is the Past Future, one of the brewery's newer hazy IPAs—this one packed with the tropical punch of pineapple and mango.
Our tip: Cans and limited-run merch tend to go quickly, so keep your eyes on HPB's Instagram for announcements about releases and specials and get there first.