At their alehouse in Pasadena and brewpub in Azusa, Congregation’s Trappist monastery theme (stained glass, wrought iron chandeliers and Old English script) provokes actual complaints of blasphemy. Servers in Catholic schoolgirl outfits likely don’t help. Undeterred, this seasoned brewery has perfected an eclectic list of appropriately named beers: Passion of the Kolsch, Dark of the Covenant, Praise on Saison and the popular “Forbidden Fruit” Blackberry Tart Belgian Wit. The Pasadena location’s 20-somethings crowd loves the outdoor seating, 32-tap system with local guest beers and premium imports, full food menu (order the Homemade Brewpub Pretzel) and the explosive Wednesday trivia night.
While breweries in the South Bay and Downtown Los Angeles have been leading the charge in LA's growing beer scene, we can't ignore East LA and the San Gabriel Valley's impact on craft beer. The region is sprouting microbreweries like orange groves: from Burbank to San Dimas, Highland Park to El Monte, at least 10 breweries now complement the area’s acclaimed alehouses and tasting rooms to make it an official craft beer destination. With the upcoming 14-barrel Mt. Lowe Brewing Company making its way to Arcadia by the end of 2016, here is your complete guide to breweries in East LA and the SGV.
RECOMMENDED: Our guide to craft beer in LA
