Explore & Enjoy // Food & Drink
Favorite Southeast Michigan Breweries
Nick Mattar
As a fan of Michigan breweries, I am always looking for a new and creative beer, as I believe it has become an art form. From the ingredients down to the naming convention and illustrations, beers are a commentary on modern-day society.
Every beer is different and every brewery has its own unique take on the budding brewery culture. Because of this, I had to select 11 breweries that represent a vast geographical area of Southeast Michigan. Not a fan of my choices? Submit your own favorites list here.
1
Kuhnhenn Brewing
Kuhnhenn Brewing - Chicago Road, Warren MI
Home to two of my favorite beers (DRIPA and Fluffer), Kuhnhenn is a my vote for best brewery in Michigan, representing everything positive and creative about the industry.
2
Batch Brewing Company
Batch Brewing Company - Porter Street, Detroit MI
This place has the best combination of beer, food, venue, and (bonus) board games! Plus the outdoor seating is fantastic.
3
Ascension Brewing Company
Ascension Brewing Company - Grand River Avenue, Novi MI
This will come as a shocker to the hard-core beer fans, but this holds a special place in my heart and is home to the best beer name and illustration for you Breaking Bad fans: Heisenberg
4
Atwater Brewery & Tap House
Atwater Brewery & Tap House - Jos Campau, Detroit MI
Previously not on my list, this shot up into the top 4 when they expanded their menu and added a rooftop bar. Plus the nitro Decadent beer is irresistable. Those factors make one of the best breweries in Michigan.
5
Jolly Pumpkin Café & Brewery
Jolly Pumpkin Café & Brewery - South Main Street, Ann Arbor MI
With three locations throughout the region, I include the Ann Arbor location here since it is the largest (I think?) and I've had memorable experiences in this location.
6
Kickstand Brewing Company
Kickstand Brewing Company - Union Lake Road, Commerce Charter Township MI
Looks can be deceiving! This awesome Michigan brewery hides in a strip mall but has an amazing ambiance and great beer selection.
7
The Royal Oak Brewery
The Royal Oak Brewery - East 4th Street, Royal Oak MI
Often overshadowed by other Royal Oak breweries, this simply-named locale always has a great lager or Hefeweizen on tap.
8
Witch's Hat Brewing Company
Witch's Hat Brewing Company - South Lafayette Street, South Lyon MI
This little-known Michigan brewery is best known for distributing to many events and bars across the state. But if you're in South Lyon, this is a necessary stop.
9
Frankenmuth Brewery
Frankenmuth Brewery - South Main Street, Frankenmuth MI
Bonus points for the best Christmas Ale, Frankenmuth is not necessarily the best year-round Michigan brewery, but from October through January it's a must-see.
10
Fenton Winery & Brewery
Fenton Winery & Brewery - North Long Lake Road, Fenton MI
Since Fenton makes both beer and wine, the beer selection is limited but extremely high quality. Their high-gravity beers are the best.
11
Farmington Brewing Company
Farmington Brewing Company - Grand River Avenue, Farmington MI
I'm not a big fruit beer person, but the Blood Orange Wheat is epic and complements a classic appearance nestled in downtown Farmington.