Yakima, Washington. The name conjures up images of sprawling hop fields, the lifeblood of countless breweries across the globe. But what many people don’t realize is that Yakima is becoming a culinary destination in its own right, and a growing number of its breweries are leading the charge, offering food menus that are just as carefully crafted as their hop-forward IPAs and innovative lagers. Gone are the days of settling for a bag of pretzels with your pint. Today, Yakima breweries are serving up everything from gourmet burgers to wood-fired pizzas to dishes showcasing the region’s bounty. If you’re looking for a place where exceptional beer meets equally exceptional food, Yakima should be at the top of your list. This article will guide you through the Yakima brewery scene, highlighting the establishments that have truly mastered the art of pairing brews with delicious bites, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences to satisfy any palate. Get ready to discover the best of Yakima’s brewery and food scene!
Crafting Culinary Experiences: Featuring Yakima’s Top Breweries with Food
Yakima boasts a diverse array of breweries, each with its own unique character and culinary approach. These are just a few standouts you should consider during your visit:
Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House
Nestled amidst the stunning scenery of the Cowiche Canyon, this brewery offers an unforgettable experience. Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House perfectly blends the rustic charm of the surrounding area with a modern, welcoming atmosphere. The outdoor seating, especially during the warmer months, provides breathtaking views that complement the craft brews. While they offer a selection of well-crafted beers, their food is worth a trip alone. One standout is their wood-fired pizzas, with locally sourced ingredients such as their own garden fresh herbs and vegetables when in season. The crust has a nice crisp that goes perfect with the perfectly combined flavors of the toppings. Beyond the pizzas, their burgers are also a popular choice, and offer delicious options for every taste preference, with locally sourced beef. To pair with the food, their IPA with its bright hoppy notes, cuts through the richness of the burger perfectly. The pizza is delicious with their Kolsch which is light, crisp, and refreshing. The pizzas range in price from fifteen to twenty dollars, while the burgers range from twelve to eighteen dollars, so you will find something that fits your price point.
You can find Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House at 202 Cowiche Mill Rd, Cowiche, WA 98923. Reach them by phone at (509) 678-4678.
Bale Breaker Brewing Company
Right in the heart of hop country, you’ll find Bale Breaker, a family-owned brewery surrounded by the very fields that provide the key ingredient for their beers. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with picnic tables and lawn games perfect for a sunny Yakima afternoon. Bale Breaker is known for its hop-centric beers, showcasing the quality of Yakima Valley hops. Their signature beer, Topcutter IPA, is a must-try for any hop lover. While Bale Breaker doesn’t have a full kitchen, they’ve mastered the art of hosting fantastic food trucks. You can find anything from BBQ and Mexican cuisine to gourmet sandwiches. This allows them to offer a diverse and constantly changing menu. To check which food truck is at Bale Breaker on a certain day, check out their social media or website. The selection of delicious beers are complemented by the rotating selection of delicious food. The prices of the food vary depending on what food truck they have that day.
Bale Breaker Brewing Company is located at 1801 Birchfield Rd, Yakima, WA 98901. Call them at (509) 424-4000 for more information.
Single Hill Brewing
Located in downtown Yakima, Single Hill Brewing offers a more urban brewery experience. With an emphasis on approachable and sessionable beers, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a pint with friends. The brewery features a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as a menu of elevated pub fare. Their menu includes items like their flavorful street tacos, which burst with authentic flavors and a touch of heat. Also, their juicy smash burger, with crispy fries, is perfectly seasoned. For a lighter option, their salads are a refreshing choice. To top it off, their expert staff will help you perfectly pair your food and beers, which makes for an unforgettable experience. Most menu items range between ten and twenty dollars, making it a accessible spot for everyone.
You can find Single Hill Brewing at 102 N Naches Ave, Yakima, WA 98901. Call them at (509) 571-1550 for their hours.
Bronk Beer Company
Bronk Beer Company is the perfect blend of an inviting taproom with delicious food. With an inclusive and friendly environment, Bronk Beer Company will make you feel at home. Their food menu is full of delicious choices, and one of their more popular choices, is their gourmet hotdogs, complete with unique toppings. If that doesn’t suit your fancy, they have a wide assortment of delicious tacos with local ingredients that will make your mouth water. If you’re looking for a place that will welcome you like you’re at home, and have friendly service, good food, and great beer, Bronk Beer Company is where you should go. Prices for items on the menu range from eight to fifteen dollars, depending on what you order.
Bronk Beer Company is at 30 N Front St, Yakima, WA 98901. Call them at (509) 469-9038 for more information.
Finding Your Perfect Pairing: Different Brewery Experiences
The Yakima brewery scene offers something for everyone, from casual beer gardens to upscale gastropubs. Here’s a breakdown of different experiences you can find:
Casual Eats & Great Brews
These breweries are perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. They typically offer pub-style food like burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and fries. The atmosphere is often lively and welcoming, making them great for a casual gathering. These breweries are family friendly as well, and some offer kids menus. Bale Breaker with their food truck selection, is the perfect spot for this type of environment.
Upscale Gastropub Fare
For a more refined dining experience, look for breweries that focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. These breweries often have a more sophisticated atmosphere and a menu that goes beyond typical pub food. You might find dishes like seared scallops, steak frites, or innovative vegetarian options. Pair your meal with a carefully selected beer from their extensive tap list for a truly memorable experience. Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House fits the description perfectly, as it is a gastropub that serves locally sourced dishes, and has an environment that will leave a lasting impression.
Breweries with Food Trucks
If you’re looking for variety, breweries that regularly host food trucks are a great option. This allows you to sample different cuisines and support local food vendors. Check the brewery’s website or social media to see which food trucks will be there on a given day. This is the best of both worlds, with good beer, and rotating cuisine. As mentioned previously, Bale Breaker is great for finding food trucks, and have a new one regularly.
Family-Friendly Options
Traveling with kids? Look for breweries with dedicated kids’ menus or a welcoming atmosphere for families. Many breweries offer outdoor seating and lawn games, providing entertainment for children while parents enjoy a beer. Most of the breweries offer family-friendly environments, such as Bronk Beer Company, which will make you feel at home.
Breweries with Outdoor Seating
Yakima’s sunny weather makes outdoor seating a major draw. Several breweries have spacious patios or beer gardens where you can enjoy your beer and food while soaking up the rays. Check ahead to make sure the outdoor seating is open, as it can depend on the weather. Enjoying your beer outside is a great experience, especially with the hop aromas in the air. Bale Breaker and Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House are great breweries for this, and both offer exceptional outdoor seating.
Beyond the Brewery: Exploring Yakima’s Food Scene
While the breweries offer an excellent starting point, Yakima’s food scene extends far beyond the brewhouse doors. The city boasts a diverse range of restaurants, from farm-to-table eateries to ethnic cuisine. The Yakima Valley’s rich agricultural heritage shines through in the local cuisine, with chefs utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak, authentic Mexican food, or a creative vegan dish, you’ll find it in Yakima. Many restaurants also partner with local breweries, offering a curated selection of beers to complement their menus. Be sure to explore the Yakima Farmers Market for fresh produce and local products. The connection between Yakima’s agricultural industry and it’s restaurants makes for a memorable culinary experience.
Planning Your Yakima Brewery Adventure
Ready to explore the Yakima brewery and food scene? Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
Getting Around Yakima
While Yakima is a relatively small city, having a car is the easiest way to get around and explore the breweries and surrounding areas. Ride-sharing services are also available, but may be limited. If you’re planning on visiting multiple breweries, consider designating a driver or using a brewery tour service. Make sure to drive responsibly, and be safe while you visit Yakima!
Best Time to Visit
Yakima enjoys warm, sunny summers, making it an ideal time to visit. The fall harvest season is also a popular time to experience the region’s agricultural bounty. Check the brewery’s websites for special events and festivals throughout the year. Any time of the year is a great experience for Yakima, but some may be better than others for different people.
Reservations Recommended
Especially for larger groups or popular breweries, it’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance. This will ensure that you have a table and avoid long wait times. You can do this through the brewery’s websites or by calling them. Making reservations will definitely make the experience better, as you won’t have to worry about not having a place to eat.
Pace Yourself
Remember to drink responsibly and pace yourself throughout the day. There are many breweries to visit, so take your time and enjoy the experience. Drink plenty of water and eat food to help moderate the effects of alcohol. You want to remember Yakima, so make sure you drink responsibly!
Check Brewery Websites & Social Media
Before you visit a brewery, be sure to check their website or social media pages for updated menus, hours, and special events. This will help you plan your trip and avoid any surprises. Breweries constantly change their options, so make sure you check them out to get the best experience!
Yakima: Where Hops Meet Culinary Excellence
Yakima is more than just a hop-growing region; it’s a destination where craft beer and culinary creativity collide. With a growing number of breweries offering innovative food menus, Yakima is a must-visit for any beer lover and foodie. From casual eats to upscale gastropub fare, there’s something for every palate and budget. So, pack your bags, grab your friends, and head to Yakima for an unforgettable brewery and food adventure! Consider starting your journey at Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Ice House for an elevated dining experience, followed by a casual afternoon at Bale Breaker enjoying the hop-filled air and a delicious bite from a food truck. The Yakima brewery scene is waiting to be explored, offering a unique blend of agricultural heritage and culinary innovation. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the best of Yakima’s brews and bites!
