Tucked away in Riverside, California, Packinghouse Brewing Company is a local gem that combines the character of a small craft brewery with a surprisingly diverse menu that keeps guests coming back for more. Known not only for its creative, small-batch beers but also for a rotating selection of food options and live entertainment, the brewery has built a reputation as a community gathering spot. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply someone looking for a relaxed food-and-drink experience, the Packinghouse Brewing Company menu offers an array of choices to explore.
Craft Beers That Define the Experience
Core Beer Selections
At the heart of the Packinghouse Brewing Company menu is its craft beer lineup, brewed on-site with attention to quality, balance, and innovation. Several flagship beers have become local favorites and represent the core identity of the brewery:
- Riley’s Irish Red: A smooth, malty red ale with subtle caramel notes and a clean finish.
- Thompson IPA: Bold and hoppy, this India Pale Ale offers citrus-forward notes with a hint of pine.
- White Flag Belgian Wheat: A crisp wheat beer brewed with coriander and orange peel for a refreshing taste.
- Bell Tower Blonde: Light and approachable, perfect for those new to craft beer or looking for an easy-drinking pint.
Seasonal and Rotating Taps
Beyond the core beers, the Packinghouse Brewing Company frequently rotates seasonal brews and experimental batches. These include barrel-aged stouts, fruited sours, and double IPAs. The seasonal selection allows return visitors to try something new with every visit, giving beer lovers a reason to explore the menu year-round.
Food Options: From Food Trucks to Pop-Ups
Dynamic Food Partnerships
Rather than having an in-house kitchen, Packinghouse Brewing Company partners with local food trucks and culinary pop-ups to keep the food offerings fresh and varied. This strategy not only supports small businesses but also ensures there’s always something different for customers to enjoy.
Typical Offerings Found on the Menu
While the specific vendors may change weekly, some common types of food you can expect to find include:
- Gourmet Burgers and Sliders: Juicy patties with creative toppings like blue cheese, fried onions, and spicy aioli.
- BBQ Plates: Pulled pork, brisket, and ribs served with coleslaw and mac & cheese.
- Street Tacos: Carne asada, al pastor, and vegetarian tacos with house-made salsa and pickled onions.
- Asian Fusion Bites: Bao buns, Korean fried chicken, and noodle dishes served fresh and fast.
- Wood-Fired Pizzas: Crispy, thin crust pizzas made to order with local ingredients and bold flavors.
The brewery updates its food truck calendar regularly, allowing guests to plan their visits around favorite dishes or upcoming specials. This evolving menu keeps the experience fresh, encouraging visitors to return often.
Snackable Taproom Favorites
Bar Snacks and Quick Bites
For those looking to pair their pint with something simple, the brewery offers basic bar snacks that complement the beer menu. While not full meals, these options are ideal for casual grazing:
- Pretzel bites with mustard or beer cheese dip
- Mixed nuts and wasabi peas
- Beef jerky from local producers
- Chips and fresh salsa or guacamole
These light bites are great for sharing among friends or enjoying solo while listening to live music or playing a board game in the taproom.
Family-Friendly and Non-Alcoholic Options
Inclusive Menu Choices
Packinghouse Brewing Company prides itself on being a family-friendly environment. For guests who prefer not to drink alcohol or are visiting with children, the beverage menu includes:
- Craft sodas in rotating flavors like root beer, black cherry, and orange cream
- Locally roasted cold brew coffee
- Fruit-infused sparkling water
- Lemonade and iced tea, often house-made
Some food vendors also offer kid-friendly items like grilled cheese, chicken tenders, or quesadillas, making it easy for families to enjoy a relaxing outing together.
Pairing Suggestions and Popular Combinations
Balancing Flavors for the Perfect Bite
One of the joys of the Packinghouse Brewing Company menu is pairing food and beer for a flavorful experience. Here are a few popular combinations often recommended by staff or locals:
- Thompson IPA + Spicy Tacos: The hoppy bitterness cuts through heat, enhancing the spice without overwhelming the palate.
- Riley’s Red + BBQ Brisket: The malt sweetness in the beer complements smoky, savory meat beautifully.
- White Flag Wheat + Citrus Salad: Bright flavors from coriander and orange peel pair nicely with a fresh salad featuring citrus vinaigrette.
- Bell Tower Blonde + Soft Pretzel: A mild, clean beer with a soft pretzel and beer cheese makes for a classic taproom snack.
Pairing suggestions like these elevate the casual dining experience and encourage guests to discover their own ideal matches.
Events That Enhance the Menu Experience
Live Music and Themed Nights
The brewery frequently hosts live music events, trivia nights, and themed food pairings that spotlight specific items on the menu. Examples include:
- Oktoberfest Events: Featuring German-style beers and bratwurst plates
- Taco Tuesdays: Food trucks offering taco specials alongside Mexican-style lagers
- Trivia and Tenders Nights: Pub-style trivia with food vendors offering chicken tenders, wings, or fried snacks
These themed evenings often draw a larger crowd and showcase limited-time beers or special menu collaborations.
Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Commitment to Local Vendors
Packinghouse Brewing Company supports local businesses not just through its beer ingredients, but also in its choice of food truck partners. Many vendors source produce, meats, and bakery items from nearby farms and suppliers. This creates a menu that is both seasonal and community-focused, helping to stimulate the local economy while offering guests a taste of regional freshness.
The Packinghouse Brewing Company menu is a reflection of everything that makes craft beer culture enjoyable great drinks, flavorful food, and a welcoming atmosphere. From flagship beers to rotating food trucks and family-friendly offerings, the menu adapts and evolves while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re dropping by for a quick pint or planning a night out with friends and live music, the options at Packinghouse Brewing Company cater to every palate. Its diverse and ever-changing menu ensures that each visit feels unique, while the consistency in quality keeps patrons returning again and again.