Los Angeles Ale Works - Brewery & Tasting Room

Nestled among the industrial landscapes of Hawthorne lies a true gem for hop enthusiasts—Los Angeles Ale Works brewery and tasting room. This establishment is notable for being the first craft brewery to open in this area of California, USA. Housed in a historic brick building with distinctive World War II-era architecture, the brewery has breathed new life into the city's industrial zone.

Los Angeles Ale Works Brewery & Tasting Room. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The location’s proximity to the famous SpaceX headquarters adds a special vibe to the place. The combination of the rugged aesthetic of old brickwork and the closeness to cutting-edge space technology makes visiting here a unique experience. Today, it is a vital stop on the craft beer map of the entire Los Angeles region.

Inside, guests are welcomed by a stylish tasting room where modern comfort meets an industrial past. It is more than just a production facility; it’s a full-fledged cultural hub where locals and tourists alike gather to experience authentic American craft culture.

For information about events or to book a table, you can use the venue's official contact channels. The brewery team is always happy to help guests choose their drinks or organize their visit.

The main reason to visit Los Angeles Ale Works is, of course, the tasting. Visitors are offered a wide and ever-changing selection of beers, ranging from classic styles to experimental novelties and seasonal releases. Their signature micheladas, made with a secret house spice mix, and original beer slushies—the perfect choice for a hot California day—are particularly popular.

The space is thoughtfully organized: there are TVs inside for sports fans, while outside features a spacious beer garden for relaxing in the fresh air. While the brewery doesn't have a full kitchen of its own, you won't go hungry. Rotating food trucks serve a variety of cuisines, from tacos to burgers, seven days a week. Additionally, the venue has a "bring your own food" policy, so you can always bring snacks or order delivery directly to your table.

For those looking for a venue for a special occasion, it's possible to reserve tables or even rent out the entire space for private parties and events. This spot is equally great for a quiet evening over a glass of ale or a lively weekend gathering with friends.

The brewery is located at 12918 Cerise Ave in the city's industrial district. This spot is in the southern part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, in close proximity to the SpaceX headquarters and LAX International Airport. The most convenient way to get here is by car or taxi, following El Segundo Boulevard. There is a private parking lot for visitors adjacent to the outdoor beer garden.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the bus routes that run along the main streets of Hawthorne, or take the Metro (Green Line) to the nearest station and then take a taxi or use a rideshare service. The trip from downtown takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

The story of this place began with the dream of Kristofor "Kip" Barnes, a passionate homebrewer who envisioned his own establishment back in late 2010. The road to realizing this idea was not easy: while the team searched for the perfect location and funding, they had to engage in contract brewing at other facilities, most notably at Ohana Brewing.

The search for a suitable home for the future brewery took more than six years. They initially considered options in Inglewood and West Los Angeles, but those locations were either too expensive or unavailable. It wasn't until early 2016 that Barnes' partner, Andrew Fowler, discovered a vacant wartime brick building in Hawthorne, located right behind the offices of Elon Musk's famous company.

The official opening took place in early 2017. This event was a milestone for the city, as Los Angeles Ale Works became the first brewery in the municipality's history. Its arrival filled a "geographical gap" in the region's craft brewing map, connecting popular spots in the airport area with the thriving scene in Torrance.

Visitors typically spend about 1.5–2 hours here. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a tasting flight, take in the atmosphere of the historic building, and perhaps grab a bite from a food truck.

If you're planning a visit with a large group or want to catch a major sporting event, you might want to set aside a bit more time. The relaxed vibe in the outdoor beer garden often encourages longer stays.

The establishment is open daily, offering a convenient schedule for both weekday evening hangouts and long weekend stays:

• Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Before planning your visit, especially on holidays, it is recommended to check the brewery's official website for the most up-to-date information.

Exploring the surroundings of Hawthorne can be a great addition to your visit to the tasting room. The area offers an interesting mix of industrial vibes and cozy local spots where you can continue your evening or grab a snack.

Below are some attractions and points of interest located nearby: