In the heart of Jacksonville, Florida, nestled amidst the vibrant Riverside neighborhood, lies a haven for craft beer enthusiasts: Florida Avenue Brewing. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of hops and barley, this local brewery promises an unforgettable experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
Since its inception in 2011, Florida Avenue Brewing has been meticulously crafting a diverse lineup of exceptional beers that showcase the artistry and passion behind the brewing process. Using only the finest ingredients, their dedicated team of brewmasters conjures up a symphony of flavors, aromas, and textures that will captivate your senses.
florida ave brewery
In the heart of Jacksonville, Florida, Florida Avenue Brewing has been crafting exceptional beers since 2011.
- Award-winning craft beers
- Diverse lineup of styles
- Local and fresh ingredients
- Passionate and experienced brewmasters
- Taproom with friendly atmosphere
- Food trucks and live music events
- Tours and tastings available
- Community-oriented brewery
- Sustainable brewing practices
Florida Avenue Brewing is a Jacksonville gem that offers a unique and unforgettable craft beer experience.
Award-winning craft beers
Florida Avenue Brewing has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional beers, earning a reputation for excellence among craft beer enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
- Gold Medal:
Their "Sun-Up Session IPA" won a gold medal at the 2022 Florida Craft Beer Awards, impressing judges with its tropical fruit flavors and refreshing citrusy finish.
- Bronze Medal:
Their "Midnight Oil Stout" took home a bronze medal at the 2021 Great American Beer Festival, captivating palates with its rich chocolate and coffee notes.
- Best of Show:
Their "Swamp Donkey Double IPA" earned the prestigious Best of Show award at the 2019 Jacksonville Beer Festival, showcasing their mastery of hop-forward beers.
- People's Choice:
Florida Avenue Brewing was voted the People's Choice winner at the 2018 Florida Brewers Guild Annual Conference and Festival, a testament to their popularity among beer drinkers.
These awards are a testament to the skill and dedication of the Florida Avenue Brewing team, who consistently produce beers that exceed expectations and leave lasting impressions on beer lovers.
Diverse lineup of styles
Florida Avenue Brewing prides itself on its diverse lineup of styles, ensuring that there's something to suit every palate and preference.
- IPAs:
From juicy and hazy New England IPAs to crisp and bitter West Coast IPAs, Florida Avenue Brewing showcases the full spectrum of this popular hop-forward style.
- Stouts:
Their stouts range from classic dry Irish stouts to rich and decadent imperial stouts, offering a variety of flavor profiles to satisfy stout enthusiasts.
- Sours:
Florida Avenue Brewing's sour beers are known for their vibrant fruit flavors and refreshing tartness, making them perfect for warm Jacksonville days.
- Lagers:
Their lagers are crisp, clean, and easy-drinking, providing a refreshing option for those who prefer a more traditional beer style.
With such a diverse selection of styles, Florida Avenue Brewing ensures that every visit offers a new and exciting beer experience.
Local and fresh ingredients
Florida Avenue Brewing is committed to using local and fresh ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and businesses while ensuring the highest quality beers.
Their hops are sourced from farms in Florida and the Pacific Northwest, known for producing some of the finest hops in the world. These hops impart intense aromas and flavors, ranging from citrusy and floral to piney and earthy.
For their malts, Florida Avenue Brewing works with local maltsters who use traditional methods to create high-quality malts with unique flavor profiles. These malts provide the backbone of their beers, contributing to the body, color, and sweetness.
When it comes to water, Florida Avenue Brewing utilizes a state-of-the-art water treatment system to ensure that their beers have a clean and crisp taste. The water is filtered and adjusted to the ideal mineral composition for each beer style.
By using local and fresh ingredients, Florida Avenue Brewing ensures that their beers are not only delicious but also reflect the unique terroir of Jacksonville and the surrounding region.
Passionate and experienced brewmasters
Florida Avenue Brewing's success is largely attributed to the passion and expertise of its brewmasters, who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the brewing process.
- Head Brewer:
Leading the brewing team is Head Brewer Johnathan Ingram, a highly respected figure in the Jacksonville craft beer scene. With over 15 years of brewing experience, Johnathan's dedication to quality and innovation is evident in every beer he creates.
- Brewmaster:
Brewmaster Sarah Smith brings a unique perspective to the team, having honed her skills at several award-winning breweries across the country. Her expertise in sour beers and barrel-aging techniques has helped expand Florida Avenue Brewing's portfolio.
- Assistant Brewer:
Rounding out the team is Assistant Brewer Michael Johnson, a rising star in the brewing industry. Michael's eagerness to learn and his attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to the brewery.
- Production Manager:
Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the brewery is Production Manager Jessica Roberts. Jessica's organizational skills and commitment to efficiency ensure that Florida Avenue Brewing runs smoothly and consistently produces high-quality beers.
Together, the brewmasters at Florida Avenue Brewing form a cohesive and talented team, dedicated to crafting exceptional beers that delight and impress beer lovers.
Taproom with friendly atmosphere
Florida Avenue Brewing's taproom is more than just a place to enjoy a beer – it's a gathering spot for friends, family, and beer enthusiasts alike.
- Cozy and Inviting:
The taproom exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere with its exposed brick walls, wooden accents, and comfortable seating. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and savor a pint of your favorite Florida Avenue Brewing beer.
- Knowledgeable Staff:
The taproom staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about beer. They're always happy to help you choose the perfect beer for your taste, or to answer any questions you may have about the brewing process.
- Community Events:
Florida Avenue Brewing regularly hosts community events at its taproom, such as live music performances, trivia nights, and beer-pairing dinners. These events are a great way to meet new people, learn more about beer, and support local musicians and artists.
- Dog-Friendly:
Florida Avenue Brewing is a dog-friendly establishment, so you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy a day out. Just make sure they're well-behaved and on a leash.
Whether you're a regular customer or a first-time visitor, you're sure to feel welcome and at home in Florida Avenue Brewing's taproom.
Food trucks and live music events
Florida Avenue Brewing takes its commitment to community and entertainment to the next level with its regular food truck and live music events.
Food Trucks:
- Diverse Cuisine:
Every weekend, Florida Avenue Brewing invites a variety of food trucks to set up shop outside the taproom, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. From mouth-watering barbecue to authentic tacos to gourmet burgers, there's something to satisfy every craving.
- Local Favorites:
Florida Avenue Brewing makes a conscious effort to feature local food trucks, showcasing the talents of Jacksonville's vibrant culinary scene. These food trucks are known for their unique and innovative dishes, using fresh, local ingredients.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere:
The food truck gatherings at Florida Avenue Brewing are family-friendly events, where kids can play games, enjoy live music, and make new friends while parents relax and savor a cold beer.
Live Music:
- Local Musicians:
Florida Avenue Brewing provides a platform for local musicians to showcase their talents. Every Friday and Saturday night, the taproom stage comes alive with live music, ranging from acoustic solo acts to energetic bands.
- Diverse Genres:
The music lineup at Florida Avenue Brewing is diverse, featuring a mix of genres such as rock, blues, jazz, country, and even traditional Irish music. There's something for everyone to enjoy.
- Intimate Setting:
The taproom's intimate setting creates a unique and personal concert experience. You can sit back, sip on a beer, and enjoy the music up close and personal.
Florida Avenue Brewing's food truck and live music events are a celebration of community, culture, and good times. They're a great way to unwind, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and support local businesses.
Tours and tastings available
Florida Avenue Brewing offers guided tours and tastings, providing visitors with an immersive and educational experience into the world of craft beer.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour:
During the tour, knowledgeable guides take visitors through the brewery, explaining the brewing process in detail and showcasing the equipment used to create Florida Avenue Brewing's award-winning beers.
- Interactive Experience:
The tour is not just a passive viewing experience – visitors are encouraged to ask questions, smell the hops, and even taste the wort (unfermented beer) at various stages of the brewing process.
- Tasting Flight:
After the tour, visitors can enjoy a tasting flight of Florida Avenue Brewing's beers, allowing them to sample a variety of styles and flavors. The tasting flight is a great way to discover new favorites and learn more about the different characteristics of each beer.
- Private Tours and Events:
Florida Avenue Brewing also offers private tours and events for groups, such as corporate outings, birthday parties, and bachelor/bachelorette parties. These private events can be customized to include food, live music, and even personalized beer tastings.
Tours and tastings at Florida Avenue Brewing are a fun and informative way to learn more about the art and science of craft beer brewing. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious about the process, you're sure to enjoy your visit.
Community-oriented brewery
Florida Avenue Brewing is deeply rooted in the Jacksonville community, actively supporting local businesses, organizations, and events.
- Local Partnerships:
Florida Avenue Brewing collaborates with other local businesses, such as restaurants, coffee shops, and retailers, to create unique and exciting promotions and events. These partnerships benefit both businesses and help foster a sense of community.
- Charity Events:
Florida Avenue Brewing regularly hosts charity events to raise funds for local organizations and causes. They donate a portion of their proceeds from certain beers or events to charities, and they also encourage their customers to get involved and support these worthy causes.
- Community Involvement:
The brewery's staff members are actively involved in the community, volunteering their time and resources to various organizations and events. They participate in local cleanup efforts, support local sports teams, and mentor young people interested in the craft beer industry.
- Neighborhood Gathering Place:
Florida Avenue Brewing strives to be a welcoming and inclusive gathering place for the Riverside neighborhood and beyond. They host regular events, such as trivia nights, live music performances, and food truck gatherings, that bring people together and create a sense of community.
Florida Avenue Brewing's commitment to the community is evident in everything they do. They are a true neighborhood gem that enriches the lives of Jacksonville residents and visitors alike.
Sustainable brewing practices
Florida Avenue Brewing is committed to minimizing its environmental impact and operating in a sustainable manner. They have implemented a number of practices to reduce their water and energy consumption, and to minimize waste and pollution.
Water Conservation:
- Florida Avenue Brewing has installed a state-of-the-art water treatment system that reduces the amount of water used in the brewing process by up to 30%. They also capture and reuse water from various stages of the brewing process, such as cleaning and cooling.
- The brewery's landscaping is designed to be water-efficient, using native plants that require minimal irrigation.
Energy Efficiency:
- Florida Avenue Brewing uses energy-efficient equipment throughout the brewery, including LED lighting, high-efficiency chillers, and variable speed drives on their motors. These measures help reduce their energy consumption and lower their carbon footprint.
- The brewery also utilizes solar panels to generate a portion of its electricity needs, further reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Waste Reduction and Recycling:
- Florida Avenue Brewing diverts over 90% of its waste from landfills through recycling and composting programs. They recycle all of their spent grain, which is used as animal feed or compost.
- The brewery also uses reusable kegs and growlers to reduce the amount of single-use packaging waste.
Sustainable Packaging:
- Florida Avenue Brewing's beer cans are made from 100% recycled aluminum, which can be recycled endlessly without losing its quality.
- The brewery is also exploring the use of compostable packaging materials for its to-go orders.
Florida Avenue Brewing's commitment to sustainability is evident in all aspects of their operations. They are a shining example of how businesses can operate in a responsible and environmentally conscious manner.
FAQ
Have questions about Florida Avenue Brewing or craft beer in general? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you:
Question 1: What are the most popular beers at Florida Avenue Brewing?
Answer 1: Some of the most popular beers at Florida Avenue Brewing include their Sun-Up Session IPA, Midnight Oil Stout, Swamp Donkey Double IPA, and River City Red Ale. These beers are known for their exceptional taste, quality, and freshness.
Question 2: Can I take a tour of the brewery?
Answer 2: Absolutely! Florida Avenue Brewing offers guided tours of their brewery every Saturday at 12 pm and 2 pm. Tours are free and last approximately 30 minutes. You'll learn about the brewing process, see the equipment, and sample some of their delicious beers.
Question 3: Does Florida Avenue Brewing have a food menu?
Answer 3: Florida Avenue Brewing does not have a dedicated food menu, but they often host food trucks on weekends. These food trucks offer a variety of cuisines, so you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Question 4: Can I bring my dog to the brewery?
Answer 4: Yes, Florida Avenue Brewing is a dog-friendly establishment. You're welcome to bring your furry friend along to enjoy a day out. Just make sure they're well-behaved and on a leash.
Question 5: Does Florida Avenue Brewing offer growlers or crowlers to-go?
Answer 5: Yes, Florida Avenue Brewing offers both growlers and crowlers to-go. Growlers are 32-ounce glass jugs that can be refilled at the brewery, while crowlers are 32-ounce aluminum cans that are sealed on-site.
Question 6: Can I rent out the brewery for private events?
Answer 6: Yes, Florida Avenue Brewing offers private event rentals for groups of 50 or more people. They have a private event space that can accommodate up to 100 guests, and they can provide food, drinks, and entertainment for your event.
Question 7: Where can I find Florida Avenue Brewing beers?
Answer 7: Florida Avenue Brewing beers are available at their taproom, as well as at select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops throughout Florida. You can also find their beers online through their website or through various beer delivery services.
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about Florida Avenue Brewing. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to the brewery directly.
Now that you know more about Florida Avenue Brewing, here are some tips for making the most of your visit:
Tips
Here are some practical tips to make the most of your visit to Florida Avenue Brewing:
1. Plan Your Visit:
Check Florida Avenue Brewing's website or social media pages for upcoming events, food truck schedules, and any special promotions. If you're planning to visit during peak hours, consider arriving early to avoid long lines.
2. Take a Brewery Tour:
The brewery tour is a great way to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of Florida Avenue Brewing's beers. Tours are free and last approximately 30 minutes. Reservations are not required, but they are recommended for groups of 10 or more.
3. Enjoy Live Music and Food Trucks:
Florida Avenue Brewing regularly hosts live music performances and food trucks on weekends. This is a great opportunity to enjoy some delicious food and drinks while listening to some great music. Check their website or social media pages for the latest schedule.
4. Bring Your Growler or Crowler:
If you're a fan of Florida Avenue Brewing's beers, bring your own growler or crowler to fill up. This is a great way to take some of their delicious beers home with you. You can also purchase growlers and crowlers at the brewery.
5. Join the Mug Club:
If you're a regular visitor to Florida Avenue Brewing, consider joining their Mug Club. Mug Club members receive a personalized mug, discounts on beer and merchandise, and invitations to exclusive events.
Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun and casual place to hang out, Florida Avenue Brewing has something for everyone. Follow these tips to make the most of your visit.
Now that you have some tips for visiting Florida Avenue Brewing, here are some additional things to keep in mind:
Conclusion
Florida Avenue Brewing is a shining example of how a local brewery can make a big impact on its community. With its award-winning beers, diverse lineup of styles, and commitment to sustainability, Florida Avenue Brewing has become a beloved destination for beer lovers and locals alike.
Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of hops and barley, Florida Avenue Brewing has something to offer everyone. Their taproom is a welcoming and friendly gathering place, where you can enjoy a pint of your favorite beer, listen to live music, and savor delicious food from local food trucks.
Florida Avenue Brewing is more than just a brewery – it's a community hub that brings people together. Their commitment to sustainability and their support for local businesses and organizations make them a true asset to the Jacksonville community.
So next time you're looking for a great place to enjoy a beer, be sure to check out Florida Avenue Brewing. You won't be disappointed.
Cheers!