WHAT’S ON TAP

Taste what’s brewing at some of Austin’s craft breweries

By Heather Turk

A city that’s quickly developing a reputation for its booming craft beer scene, Austin, Texas, is home to several craft breweries that will impress even the most discerning beer connoisseur.

AUSTIN BEER GARDEN BREWING CO.

Known for its award-winning lagers, this warehouse-like brewery invites guests to drink for a cause, as 5 percent of its profits go toward benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Visitors can savor an array of beers brewed on site, like the preprohibition-style Rocket 100 American pilsner, and pair their selection with an assortment of scratch-made sandwiches, salads, small plates and pizzas. Live music is featured several nights a week, including a award-winning barrel-aged Atrial Rubicite wild ale that’s refermented with raspberries and the refreshing Le Petit Prince farmhouse table beer. There’s also a food truck on site serving BBQ-inspired dishes and loaded fries, or guests can order a wood-fired pizza from the brewery’s kitchen. jesterkingbrewery.com

ZILKER BREWING CO.

Famous for its hazy beers, sours and lagers, this urban East Side brewery serves 12 beers in its taproom, including seven rotating seasonal selections. A new seasonal style is released each week, or guests can try one of five mainstays like the Coffee Milk Stout made with locally roasted Spokesman Coffee. Visitors can enjoy their selection in a large outdoor beer garden while treating their taste buds to fare from one of the best food trailers in town, Spicy Boys, which serves a menu of tasty Pan-Asian-inspired fried chicken, wings and sandwiches. zilkerbeer.com