So, You Wanna Be a Brewery Hopper in L.A.? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ah, Los Angeles. The land of sunshine, celebrities (sometimes you see them at the grocery store!), and...a surprising abundance of breweries! But just how many breweries are we talking about here? Buckle up, because this isn't your grandpa's six-pack haul.
The Great Los Angeles Brewery Census: Fact or Fiction?
Now, pinning down an exact number is trickier than dodging a rogue selfie stick on Hollywood Boulevard. There's whispers of new breweries popping up faster than you can say "craft beer flight," while others might have, ahem, met an unfortunate end (R.I.P. dream of that passion fruit IPA).
Here's the Lowdown (with a Dash of Hops)
The good folks at the Brewers Association say there are roughly 80 craft breweries calling Los Angeles County home. That's a lot of suds! But remember, this is L.A., and "craft" can mean anything from a tiny, experimental outfit to a place with a sprawling beer garden.
But Wait, There's More!
Here's the thing: 80 is just the tip of the iceberg (or should we say, ice bucket?). The craft beer scene here is a living, breathing beast, constantly evolving. New breweries seem to sprout up like, well, hops after a spring rain. So, that number? Consider it a delightful jumping-off point for your brewery adventure.
So, How Many Breweries Can You Actually Conquer?
That, my friend, is entirely up to you. Are you a lightweight, aiming for a chill afternoon at a local spot? Or are you a hardcore hophead on a mission to visit every last one (just pace yourself!)? The beauty is, L.A.'s breweries offer something for everyone. From trendy gastropubs with fancy brews to laid-back neighborhood joints with good vibes and even better beer, there's a brewery out there with your name on it (and maybe a funny slogan on the pint glass).
The Important Takeaway: There's a Lot of Beer in L.A., and That's a Good Thing!
So, the next time you're in the City of Angels, skip the tourist traps and dive into the world of L.A. craft beer. With its ever-growing selection and something for every taste bud, you might just become a brewery hopper yourself. Cheers!
