Score 90/100 · Order: Speedway Stout or Belgian-style flight · $6–11/pint
AleSmith is a brewery for serious beer drinkers. The Speedway Stout is one of the best imperial stouts in the world, and the Belgian-style lineup is equally strong. The Miramar taproom is industrial and spacious, with a small food menu and a wall of awards. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to talk about barrel programs and yeast strains. The food is not the draw, but the beer is good enough that you will not mind. It is the best brewery in San Diego for anyone who wants to explore the darker, stronger side of craft beer.