1188 Brewing

In the heart of the cozy town of John Day, Oregon, you'll find 1188 Brewing — a place where a passion for craft brewing meets home-style comfort. This family-owned brewery and restaurant has become a true focal point for residents and visitors of the USA traveling along the scenic routes of the Pacific Northwest. The establishment is famous not only for its drinks but also for its genuine hospitality, confirmed by high guest ratings.

The concept of 1188 Brewing is built on a combination of in-house production of unique beer styles and high-quality cuisine using local Grant County ingredients. The pub's interior creates an atmosphere of good old Oregon, where every guest feels like part of a large community. It's the perfect stop for those heading to the famous Painted Hills or exploring the banks of the John Day River.

A special feature of the venue is its family-oriented approach: visitors of all ages are welcome here. In addition to the main dining room, the brewery offers a social space where you can discuss travel plans over a glass of fresh IPA or an original cocktail. 1188 Brewing is not just a restaurant, but an essential part of the Eastern Oregon Brews Byway tourist route.

For those planning a visit to this welcoming spot, we have prepared up-to-date contact information. You can book a table in advance or check the availability of seasonal beers by phone.

The main reason to stop by 1188 Brewing is, of course, the craft beer tasting. Visitors are invited to try a range of beers brewed with rare ingredients, such as those from the Garage Days series. If you can't decide, order a tasting flight to appreciate the palette of flavors — from the classic Rim Rock IPA to the rich Black Oak Instigator.

For those who prefer more complex flavors, the menu features an impressive cocktail list. Be sure to try The Squatchberry with huckleberry vodka and basil or the spicy The Fire Line with tequila and pineapple. The cuisine deserves special mention: they serve hearty breakfasts, burgers made with local meat, and exquisite desserts like homemade cakes and pastries.

The atmosphere is perfect for relaxing after an active day in the mountains or the desert. You can watch the town life through large windows, chat with the friendly staff, or simply enjoy a cozy evening by the makeshift hearth. The brewery often hosts special promotions and themed nights, becoming a hub for lovers of good food and quality conversation.

The brewery is conveniently located at 141 E Main St, making it easily accessible for anyone traveling through town. If you are staying in the central area, a walk to the venue will take only a few minutes, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of the historic town.

For those traveling by car on Hwy 26, 1188 Brewing is an ideal stop. The town is small, so parking can usually be found on the side streets. Public transport in this part of the state is limited, so most guests arrive by their own cars or use local taxi services.

The history of 1188 Brewing began in 2012 when two families — sisters Shannon and Jennifer along with their husbands Jeremy and Ken — decided to create a place that reflected the spirit of freedom in Eastern Oregon. The name of the establishment has a deeply personal meaning: it is composed of the racing numbers of their fathers, who participated in snowmobile races in 1975. The numbers 11 (Rich Brown) and 88 (Jim Brady) are notable because they read the same even when upside down, symbolizing the resilience and true character of those times.

The official opening of the pub and restaurant took place in 2013. Since then, the team has grown significantly, attracting talented brewers who aren't afraid to experiment with exotic malts and hops from England and Belgium. Every beer here is a chapter in the company's development, starting from the first brews in the Garage Days series.

The town of John Day itself also leaves its mark on the establishment's atmosphere. In the 1880s, this region was a gold rush center, and today the brewery strives to preserve that same generous spirit and hospitality inherent to the pioneers. This place has become a true hub for the local community and a must-visit point on the itinerary for modern Oregon explorers.

To fully appreciate the skill of the local brewers and try several varieties from a tasting flight, you will need about 1–2 hours. This is enough time for a light snack and to get acquainted with the pub's atmosphere.

If you are planning a full family dinner with multiple courses, including signature desserts and craft cocktails, allow 2–3 hours for your visit. It can get quite lively in the evenings and on weekends, so you definitely won't want to rush — the friendly rhythm of a small town encourages long conversations.

The brewery operates on a convenient schedule for lunch and early dinner; however, please note that the establishment is closed on Sundays.

Working Hours:
Monday — Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM;
Thursday — Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM;
Sunday: Closed.

The brewery's location in the historic center makes it easy to combine craft beer tasting with exploring local attractions. A walk around the area will reveal the region's rich history, from the gold rush era to Oregon's unique Chinese heritage.