Metro Detroit’s Top Breweries: Cheers To Beers

By: Carolyn Hall | April 15, 2025
bartender hand at beer tap pouring a draught beer in glass serving in breweries

Metro Detroit is home to an impressive array of breweries, each offering distinctive beers, vibrant atmospheres, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re craving classic lagers or adventurous craft creations, these local breweries deliver…

The Royal Oak Brewery

215 East 4th Street, Royal Oak

Marking three decades of beer excellence, The Royal Oak Brewery has been at the heart of Oakland County’s brewing scene. Owner Draw Ciora shares, “The Royal Oak Brewery will be 30 years old this year and is the oldest and first brewery in Oakland County. We opened the ROB in 1995 with the goal of making amazing beer and offering an incredible menu to everyone in Metro Detroit.” Highlights include their award-winning Kolsch and dishes like Louisiana Jambalaya, Shepherd’s Pie, and Fried Avocados. With its inviting pub atmosphere, the ROB continues to foster friendships and good times, celebrating its 30th anniversary all year, culminating in a grand celebration this September 6th.

the royal oak brewery's award
Photo courtesy of The Royal Oak Brewery

Batch Brewing Company

1400 Porter Street, Detroit

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Located in Corktown, Batch Brewing Company has celebrated a decade of crafting memorable beers and experiences. Owner Stephen Roginson shares, “We recently celebrated our 10-year anniversary in Corktown, Detroit, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with being a part of such a dynamic community. We take pride in what we do here at Batch Brewing Company. Whether that’s beer, food, cocktails, music, or supporting our community. If you haven’t visited us before, we’d love to have you. If you have been here before, thank you, and cheers! We hope to see you again soon.” Alongside craft brews, like Chela Familar (Mexican-Vienna-style Lager) or Oatmeal Stout, Batch offers an eclectic menu, lively events, and more.

batch brewing company mug, sandwich, and soup
Photo courtesy of Batch Brewing Company

Griffin Claw Brewing Company

575 South Eton Street, Birmingham

2265 Crooks Road, Rochester Hills

Established by Bonnie LePage and Mary Nicholson, Griffin Claw Brewing Company emerged from the award-winning traditions of Big Rock Chophouse in Birmingham. “After winning top prizes at the prestigious World Beer Cup for their flagship Norm’s Raggedy Ass IPA and Bonnie’s Raggedy Ass Imperial IPA, the duo decided to launch their own brewery with the mission of crafting exceptional beers and connecting with the community,” explains the Griffin Claw Brewing Company Team. With two bustling locations in Birmingham and Rochester Hills, serving as both production facilities and taprooms, Griffin Claw also offers spirits through its distillation program and hard ciders with its Blackgrass Ciderworks line. Their popular beers are widely available, including in convenient variety packs at Costco locations statewide. With options ranging from a citrus Shandy like Clementine Crush, a Pastry Stout like their Marshmallow Drip, or a Red Ale like El Rojo, Griffin Claw Brewing Company has something for everyone.

can and glass of clementine crush from griffin claw brewing co - breweries
Photo courtesy of Griffin Claw Brewing Company

Woodward Avenue Brewers

22646 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale

Ferndale’s brewing scene owes much to Woodward Avenue Brewers. Manager Jared Zarb shares, “The WAB opened in 1997. At the time there were fewer than 10 microbreweries in the state of Michigan, so it was a pretty big deal. The WAB was also one of the first bar/restaurants in Ferndale. It was a big part of Ferndale growing from a small neighborhood to a nightlife destination.” Since then, the WAB has expanded significantly into WABco, encompassing two restaurants, two bars, and a music venue. As for drafts, check out the WAB Raspberry Blonde featuring fruity notes, Bell’s Oberon for those looking for an American Pale Wheat, or the WAB Imperial Stout, which was brewed and kegged before the pandemic hit.

Pizza and beer from WAB - breweries
Photo courtesy of Woodward Avenue Brewers

Brewery Becker

500 West Main Street, Brighton

Located in a beautifully restored 1871 historic hotel in Brighton, Brewery Becker specializes in rare and traditional beer styles. Owner Matt Becker emphasizes, “We specialize in traditional and hard-to-find styles, everything from medieval stone brewed raw farmhouse ales to modern American takes on IPA. Our whole fruit only beers, like our Kriek or Fruit Braggot, are particularly popular.” Visitors enjoy the brewery’s award-winning biergarten, historic charm, and expertly crafted brews that honor beer history while offering exciting new flavors.

brewery becker mug
Photo courtesy of Brewery Becker

Atwater Brewery

237 Jos Campau, Detroit

1175 Lakepointe Street, Grosse Pointe Park

A Detroit staple since its founding in 1997, Atwater Brewery blends German brewing traditions with American ingenuity. Known for their options like Vanilla Java Porter, Dirty Blonde Ale, and Detroit City Juice Hazy IPA, Atwater consistently delivers classic, approachable brews alongside innovative seasonal varieties. Atwater also boasts popular taproom spaces where visitors can enjoy brews fresh from the source, paired with tasty bites. With a strong commitment to quality and community, Atwater remains a beloved fixture in Detroit’s beer scene.

With such diverse offerings, Metro Detroit’s brewery scene is vibrant, welcoming, and full of flavorful possibilities.

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