Single Hill (Yakima)

There are a lot of great breweries in Washington State, and I say that as someone who has spent an unreasonable amount of time sitting on uncomfortable stools drinking beer “for research.” But if I’m being completely honest, Single Hill Brewing is my favorite brewery in the entire state—and that’s a bold claim I do not make lightly. Located in downtown Yakima, Single Hill manages to pull off something rare: elite-level beer without even a hint of trying too hard.

The beer is consistently excellent across styles—IPAs, lagers, saisons, you name it—and every pint feels intentional. Nothing flashy for the sake of being flashy, no palate-wrecking stunts, just incredibly well-made beer that makes you want another sip immediately. It’s the kind of place where even the beer you didn’t order ends up being impressive when you steal a taste from someone else’s glass.

And then there’s the real plot twist: Single Hill also serves coffee in the morning. Yes, the same place you go for a world-class pint at night can also fuel your day with a legitimately good cup of coffee. It’s equal parts brilliant and dangerous, mostly because it sets the bar uncomfortably high for every other brewery that hasn’t figured this out yet. Coffee in the morning, beer in the afternoon—this is called range.

The space itself is relaxed, welcoming, and filled with people who clearly know they’re in on something special. Locals, visitors, beer nerds, casual drinkers—it all works, because the vibe is simple: show up, drink something excellent, and don’t overthink it. Single Hill Brewing isn’t just one of the best breweries in Yakima—it’s the benchmark I unfairly judge all other breweries against. And yes, almost all of them lose.

Note: If you find yourself in Seattle, swing by their tasting room in Ballard. The vibes there are most excellent.