They say that at one point, Boerne had the highest number of breweries per capita of any city in the nation. I don’t know how true that is or was, but Boerne’s beer scene is still one of the best by any measure. Six breweries are operating now, pumping out award-winning brews and crafting a culture that brings people together, over a pint and in life.
We’ve certainly celebrated some of the key figures in our community’s beer scene over the years, but it has been too long since we took stock of the state of Boerne’s brews. To do so, I rounded up some friends (Mike, Cris, Evan, and Rob), including veterans and newcomers to Boerne beers, and visited every brewery in town, tasting almost every beer on offer along the way. So, check them off if you’ve been and make plans for those you haven’t, as we present the definitive guide to Boerne brewing—at least until the kegs run out and we need to start over.
28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen 110 Market Ave. | 28songs.beer
Founder Don Kretz has been slinging suds on Boerne’s north end for two years, using his single-vessel system to turn out an eye-popping variety and quantity of beers. Seriously… they had close to 20 of their own beers on tap. That assortment of beer, the food, and the vibe bring people back, which Kretz says is his favorite part: “I tell people all the time that since we’ve opened, we’ve made hundreds of new friends.” Stop by and become their newest!
Our Favorites: Bonfire Blonde; Electric Armadillo; Look Ma, No Hands
Free Roam Brewing Co. 325 S. Main St. | freeroambrewing.com
Ever since co-founders Jeremy Affeldt (CEO, beauty) and Jaron Shepherd (Brewmaster, brains) set up shop along the Hill Country Mile three years ago, they’ve been leading the way and turning their historic building into Boerne’s backyard. Jaron likes to get creative, building recipes from seasonal and regional ingredients and making it happen with whatever sleep he can get as a new dad. Live music, food trucks, and community events like a men’s night and run club keep the place packed no matter what’s on tap.
Our Favorites: Luke, I am Your Patersbier; High Fence; Choco Rojo
Hamby’s 437 S. Main St. | ci.boerne.tx.us/2401/Hambys
As a spin-off of Cibolo Creek Brewing Co. across the street, you may think the beer at Hamby’s is an afterthought. It is a burger stand, after all. Not so, says manager Beck Messimer. “We have other things too, but you’re not going to find a brewery around here that does so many lagers. The fact that they're crisp and easy to drink, and the variety that we have is pretty cool.” And they pair perfectly with the burgers, ice cream treats, and vintage pinball.
Our Favorites: Mazour Czech Pils; Pint Break; Tart Apple Gose
The Dodging Duck Brewhaus & Restaurant 402 River Rd. | dodgingduck.com
This place is the granddaddy of the Boerne beer scene, and it’s seen it all in its nearly quarter century of brewing. Aptly named for its spot on River Road, the Dodging Duck has been a favorite for great beers, tasty bites, and chill vibes for decades. Despite the many years of service, they keep things fresh with a tap list that rotates regularly, so there’s always something fresh and flavorful to try. Just watch out for the quackers.
Our Favorites: Duck and the Giant Peach; Lukenbacher Hefeweizen; Darkwing Duck Nitro Stout
Cibolo Creek Brewing Co. 448 S. Main St. | cibolocreekbrewing.com
One of the first breweries you notice along South Main, this is where craft beer meets culinary flair. Their house-brewed beers pay homage to the local area's history, landscape, and people, offering unique flavors for every palate. Pair your pint with inventive dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The brewery also hosts live music on their patio, providing a bubbly backdrop to your dining experience. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just in for the vibes, Cibolo Creek will keep you coming back.
Our Favorites: Boerne Blonde; Belle Saison; Paul Rudd Double Vision
Tusculum Brewing Co. 236 S. Main St. | tusculum.beer
Since this crew took over the historic H.O. Adler Building and opened in 2019, they’ve been doing things right. They have their staples, but the seasonals mean there’s something fun and new to try all year long. As one of four breweries along Main St., co-founder Tripper Matthews says his favorite things about Boerne’s beer scene are the friendships and community they’ve formed. “All of us in town like to say we don’t have competitors, we have compadres. Boerne’s for beers and cheers!” We’ll drink to that!
Our Favorites: Lion Slide; Foggy Donkey; Kinda Lucky
Mike-Ro-Brewery mike-ro-brewery.com
This one’s the hidden gem that shows you’re really in the know. It’s actually a passion project for Mike Hagan, who loves brewing and serving it up for his community. You can find him at various events throughout his brewing season (late November to early May), where he gives away his beer and collects donations for Hill Country Family Services and Hill Country Animal Shelter. Like his friend Scott says, “Mike is extremely social, so anything that brings folks together is what he’s about.” So be careful when you meet him; he might just invite you over.
Our Favorites: whatever Mike has on tap
“All of us in town like to say we don’t have competitors, we have compadres. Boerne’s for beers and cheers!” —Tripper Matthews, Tusculum Brewing Co.