On a recent sunny afternoon, I found myself at Little Beast Brewing Garden in Portland. This place isn’t your typical brewery. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, it’s like finding a secret spot that only locals know about.
When I walked in, the first thing I noticed was how relaxed the vibe was. The garden is full of plants and flowers, making it feel like you’re hanging out in someone’s backyard. There were plenty of picnic tables, some shaded by large umbrellas, and others basking in the sun. Families, friends, and even dogs were chilling out, enjoying the good weather and good beer.
The beer menu is what you’d expect from a place called Little Beast. They specialize in farmhouse ales and sour beers, which are a bit different from the usual IPAs you find everywhere else. I decided to try the “Fera” first. It’s a mixed-culture saison with a tangy flavor that hits you right away, but it’s balanced with a nice, dry finish. If you’re into trying something new, this is definitely worth a sip.
Next, I went for the “Dream State,” a golden sour ale. This one is tart but refreshing, with hints of fruit that make it easy to drink. It’s the kind of beer that’s perfect for a hot day. They also have some limited releases that rotate often, so there’s always something different to taste.
One thing I really liked about Little Beast Brewing Garden was how easygoing it felt. The staff was super friendly and happy to chat about the different beers. They even suggested a few pairings with the snacks available, like their soft pretzels or the charcuterie board. I went with the pretzel, which came with a side of beer cheese. It was warm, soft, and just salty enough.
The crowd was a mix of regulars and first-timers like me. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood, and it was easy to strike up a conversation with the people at the next table. The garden’s setup encourages that kind of interaction, making it a great spot to meet new people or just relax with friends.
As the day went on, the garden started to fill up, but it never felt overcrowded. The pace here is slow and steady, with people taking their time to enjoy their beer and the atmosphere. The sunlight filtering through the trees gave the place a warm, inviting glow.
Little Beast Brewing Garden is the kind of place you want to return to. It’s not flashy or loud, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a little piece of Portland where you can kick back, sip on some unique beers, and just enjoy the moment. If you’re in town, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Image Credit: Little Beast Brewing Beer Garden
