Best Craft Beer in Whistler

Whether just coming off the slopes or the trails, it’s not hard to work up a thirst after a great day in Whistler. While there is no shortage of good apres ski watering holes in both the Whistler and Creekside village, if it’s specifically great craft beer you seek out, you have to look a little harder. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place. After years of exploring Whistler’s craft beer scene (you’re welcome), we’ve identified the best craft breweries and craft beer bars in Whistler. Behold!

Best Craft Breweries in Whistler

If you’re looking for microbreweries that brew their own beer on-site, there are two great options to choose from. Unfortunately, they’re both located in Function Junction so you can’t just mosey on in from the slopes. But trust us, they’re worth the short drive or bus ride. 

Coast Mountain Brewing

Our personal favourite Whistler craft brewery is Coast Mountain Brewing. Located in the industrial plaza of Function Junction, Coast Mountain is, in our opinion, the best pure craft brewer in the Sea to Sky region. From a beer quality and taste perspective, they’re hard to beat. Hope You’re Happy IPA is an absolute must-try for any hop lovers. And be sure to ask the staff about how the beer got its name! For those who like something on the more refreshing side, nothing hits like a Crystal Chair Pilsner after a big day in the mountains. They also have a great selection of rotating and seasonal craft beers including sours, pale ales, and even some barrel-aged stouts.

While Coast Mountain doesn’t have a kitchen on-site, you’re welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it inside or on the covered patio. It’s also one of the very few patios in Whistler that is dog friendly. On top of all this, Coast Mountain’s beautiful branding creates a great souvenir, gift, or keepsake when it comes to the selection of glassware, soft goods, and of course, beer for sale in their bottle shop.

Whistler Brewing Company

Just around the corner from Coast Mountain Brewing sits Whistler’s other great craft brewery, Whistler Brewing Company. They also boast a great selection of craft beers to be enjoyed in their indoor seating area, on the patio, or for take-home from the bottle shop. There is a solid pub-style food menu to pair with your tasty suds. You can’t go wrong with the nachos!

Our favourites from Whistler Brewing are their refreshing beers that quench your thirst after a summer day in the mountains. The flavourful Bear Paw Honey Lager, the crisp & clean Mountain Lager, and the fruity energizing Grapefruit Ale all hit just right when the weather’s hot. On top of that, we’re also big fans of their seasonal orange chocolate Winter Dunkel, steeped with orange zest, coriander, and loads of chocolate. Mmmm. 

If you’ve got a safe ride home taken care of, why not do a little Function Junction craft beer crawl! Whistler Brewing Company and Coast Mountain Brewing are just 240 metres apart. 

Best Craft Beer Restaurants & Bars in Whistler

Beyond the microbreweries themselves, there are a few Whistler bars and restaurants that boast impressive craft beer selections. Located in the Whistler village, these spots are easy to roll into right off the slopes.

Hunter Gather

Opened in 2017, Hunter Gather Eatery & Taphouse offers an exceptional selection of locally sourced food, wine, cocktails, and of course, craft beer. A great place to sample all of what BC and the Sea to Sky craft beer scene has to offer, Hunter Gather has a variety of rotating craft beer taps to choose from. You’ll find beers from craft breweries in Whistler, Squamish, Pemberton, the lower mainland, and the interior of BC. 

Beyond their craft beer, Hunter Gather is one of our favourite places to grab brunch, lunch, or dinner. You’ll find outstanding sandwiches, bennies, and entrees up and down their menu, including tons of great meat (hunter) and vegetarian (gather) options, all at approachable prices. 

Brickworks

Famous for Whistler’s best gin bar, Brickworks also packs a punch when it comes to its craft beer offering. With a dozen craft taps, about half of which are rotating, there’s always something to pair with their great, locally-sourced cuisine. Plus, their extensive gin and cocktail menu makes Brickworks a great option if you’ve got some non-beer drinkers in your group. 

And there you have it! All the best of the craft beer scene in Whistler. Any other favorites we should add? Let us know in the comments!

Looking for other spots to dine while you’re in Whistler? Check out our guides to the best coffee shops in Whistler and the best restaurants in Whistler!