This is Arizona's largest brewery, set in a charming building dating back to the 1920's. Relax on the patio, have some great food, and even better beer. Four Peaks has won many international awards for their suds, and rightfully so. Some choices on tap change with the seasons, while other staples, such as the potent Kiltlifter, are ready for the drinking all year 'round.

 

Now with an on-site brewing facility, Sonora is a favorite with the locals. Excellent quality beers on tap and tasty food make it easy to see why. The knowledgeable brew masters in the pub can answer any beer-related questions (and many that aren't), so you'll walk away a little wiser and much happier.

Papago Brewing
7107 East McDowell Road, Scottsdale
Phone: (480) 425-7439
Web: www.papagobrewing.com

A 30-tap bar with selections that change daily, Papago focuses on beer of the Southwest (with their own brews, of course), as well as many from around the world. The owner works the bar himself, so ask him to help you pick a favorite.

Delux
3146 East Camelback Road, Phoenix
Phone: (602) 522-2288
Web: www.deluxburger.com

Not generally considered a “beer bar,” Delux takes its beer as seriously as their food. More than 40 selections of suds are offered here, with beer flights (three choices per order) to help you find a favorite. Open until 2 a.m. seven days a week, Delux is the place to go if you aren't in the mood for a bar, but you are in the mood for some good brews.

Gordon Biersch
Two Valley locations
Web: www.gordonbiersch.com

This mega-chain knows its beer, and it is all packaged in an attractive, modern setting in its two locations. The focus here is on German and Belgian brews, from Hefeweizen (wheat) to Schwarzbier (literally “black beer” in German). Beer flights let the drinker sip a bit of each type.

Teakwoods Tavern & Grill
8880 East Via Linda, Scottsdale
Phone: (480) 614-5254
Web: www.scottsdaleteakwoods.com

Lots of beer—whether it be in bottle, draft or can. Yes, can. Grab a cold can of Old Style for $1.25, or a PBR. These are listed under “stadium beers,” but there is no stadium in the country serving up a beer for under two bucks. The cheap stuff isn't all they serve here. There's also a nice selection of local and international brews

Yard House
Three Valley locations
Web: www.yardhouse.com

With more than 100 beers on tap, everyone can find their favorite pint. Excellent classic rock plays on the sound system, many televisions for sports viewing, and plenty of food make this spot a favorite. The Chocolate Stout Float is a great take on the standard: dark, rich stout topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Get your drink on, and have dessert at the same time.

Old Chicago
Five Valley locations
Web: www.oldchicago.com

Join the “world beer tour,” where drinkers taste each of the 110 suds on draft. Track your inebriated journey with Old Chicago's electronic beer card. When you have sampled them all, your name will be immortalized with a plaque on the “Wall of Foam.”

Rock Bottom
Several Valley locations
Web: www.rockbottom.com

This may be a chain, but lots of brews can be found here, and many food selections are enhanced with various beers. Join the “mug club,” and receive special merchandise and gift certificates that get more impressive the more you visit. For a party at home, Rock Bottom sells kegs and half-gallon “growlers.”

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Multiple Valley locations
Web: www.bjsrestaurants.com

BJ's brews its own beer, and celebrates the world's diversity of the craft by brewing up a German Kolsch to Russian Imperial Stout, and many other ales and lagers. This spot takes its suds seriously, with brewmasters employed at each location, so ask away and find a favorite.