Bakersfield’s craft beer scene has grown into a tight circle of creative, community-minded breweries pouring quality pints across town. From hop-forward West Coast IPAs to approachable lagers and seasonal experiments, you’ll find lively taprooms, good food, and friendly service that make each stop worth your time. Below are five local favorites that showcase the city’s range and character.
Temblor Brewing Company
Set just off Buck Owens Boulevard, Temblor pairs a spacious taproom with a full kitchen and a steady rotation of house beers. If you like classic West Coast character, their “Streets of Bakersfield” IPA leans into bright citrus and a firm hop backbone, while the broader lineup balances hazies, lagers, and occasional small-batch releases. The room is built for hanging out, with plenty of seating and a schedule that makes it an easy lunch or dinner stop during the week and a social hub on weekends. Keep it on your radar for events and special tappings too.
Lengthwise Brewing Company
Lengthwise is a Bakersfield original, with roots going back decades and multiple locations to make getting a pint convenient. The flagship brewery on District Boulevard gives you a front-row look at the production floor, while the Pub on Calloway and the Marketplace spot extend the brand’s “great beer, great food, great service” mantra around town. Expect familiar core styles alongside rotating seasonals, plus a pub menu built for pairing with a flight. If you want the quintessential local brewery experience in Bakersfield, this is it.
Dionysus Brewing Company
Tucked into an industrial park on the southwest side, Dionysus rewards the trip with a laid-back taproom and a lineup that often ventures beyond the basics. You might find fruited creations, clean lagers, or hop-driven ales depending on the season. Regulars praise the friendly vibe and small-batch variety that keeps the board interesting for repeat visits. It is the kind of spot where you grab a stool, chat with the beertender about what’s new, and discover a style you did not know you needed.
Centro Cali Brewing
Downtown’s Centro Cali combines a chef-driven restaurant with a house brewery, making it a great choice when your group wants a proper meal alongside their pints. The menu leans on fresh ingredients and thoughtful pairings, while the beer list offers a solid mix that plays well with the food. If you are planning a dinner that can also double as a mini beer tour, Centro Cali hits the sweet spot between gastropub and brewery. The polished dining room and welcoming service make it an easy recommendation for date night or a pre-show stop.
Crusader Brewing Company
Crusader runs a friendly, neighborhood-style taproom on District Boulevard with a set of approachable beers that cover the hits: IPAs, stouts, ambers, and crisp lagers. It is a comfortable spot to post up for a pint or assemble a flight if you want to explore. The team emphasizes service and an inclusive atmosphere, which shows in the steady local following and weeknight energy. If you are mapping a south-side brewery crawl, Crusader pairs nicely with other nearby stops.
How to Plan Your Bakersfield Brewery Day
A simple route pairs north-side Temblor with a downtown visit to Centro Cali, then heads south to hit Lengthwise’s main brewery and Crusader, with Dionysus nearby to round things out. If you are traveling with friends who want food options, prioritize Temblor and Centro Cali for full kitchens, then add tasting-room-focused stops for variety. Always check current hours before you go, since kitchens and taprooms can run different schedules during the week.
Responsible Tasting Tips
Bring a designated driver or rideshare if you are planning multiple stops, sip water between samples, and snag a meal early. Bakersfield’s breweries are built for relaxed afternoons and evenings, and pacing yourself means you can enjoy more styles without rushing. Most taprooms also offer cans, crowlers, or growlers to go, so you can take a favorite home for later.
Conclusion: Support Local, Then Visit Jim Burke Lincoln
Whether you are a hop hunter, lager loyalist, or just looking for a fun night out with friends, Bakersfield’s breweries deliver quality beer, good food, and plenty of local charm. Start with a meal and pint at Temblor, explore the history and hospitality at Lengthwise, branch out with small-batch surprises at Dionysus, enjoy a chef-led pairing at Centro Cali, and cap it with a relaxed flight at Crusader. When you are done exploring, swing by Jim Burke Lincoln in Bakersfield to browse our latest lineup, schedule a test drive, or talk trade-ins. We are here to make your next drive as smooth as your favorite pour. Visit us today and let our team help you find the Lincoln that fits your life.