Docent Brewing

33049 Calle Aviador Suite C, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, United States
$$$ Brewery
(465 Reviews)

Welcome to Docent Brewing, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, California. This brewery is not just a place to grab a beer; it's a destination to indulge in a dynamic experience that artfully blends craft brewing with delightful food offerings. Located at 33049 Calle Aviador Suite C, this inviting spot provides a welcome retreat from the bustle of everyday life.

At Docent Brewing, you'll find an impressive selection of beers that cater to a variety of palates. With an array of styles on tap—from hoppy IPAs to rich, flavorful Pilsners—there’s something for every beer enthusiast here. Patrons rave about the Ourglass IPA, known for its well-balanced flavors and excellent mouthfeel. Marcia Vojtech praised the beer, stating it was “excellent,” complementing her experience with a delectable rice bowl that delights even those who may not have selected their first choice. This attention to quality resonates throughout their brewing process, with meticulous craftsmanship in every sip.

The food menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring everything from delicious tacos to hearty sandwiches. On Thursdays, the special of 3 tacos for $12 showcases an enticing mix including flavorful birria, savory carnitas, and unexpected kimchi, all served with tender, juicy fillings that burst with flavor. A variety of seating options allows guests to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere, whether inside the spacious brewhouse or outside, where the energy of the surroundings matches the high spirits of fellow patrons. Many love the casual, yet inviting ambiance that provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying an afternoon with friends or family.

Customers have highlighted the comfortable seating arrangements where large groups can gather to unwind. The lively environment is crafted for enjoyment, as noted by Hans Foto's review about the “excellent atmosphere” found in a unique space within a business park. Despite some mentions of parking concerns, the joyful chatter and laughter of guests fills the air, making it easy to forget any minor inconveniences.

Overall, Docent Brewing stands as a wonderful destination for those seeking quality craft beer paired with tasty bites in a laid-back setting. It promises not just refreshments, but a memorable community experience where flavor and fun intertwine seamlessly. Make sure to stop by next time you're in San Juan Capistrano—this brewery is one you won't want to miss.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
No delivery
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Amenities
Has bar on site
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

465 Reviews
Marcia Vojtech

23 Sep 2025

Beer was excellent. The rice bowl was also fantastic, even though I got the chicken instead of the chile verde.

Hans Foto

12 Sep 2025

This brewery is a hidden gem. Very cool spot to grab some beer and food. This is the main Brewhouse for this company. They also have another satellite tasting room/brewpub. The atmosphere for this place is excellent, especially for being in a business park. They have a huge selection of beer on tap. Really a style of beer for everyone. There is plenty of comfortable seating to choose from. The staff was really helpful with choosing beer fro. Their massive list. If you enjoy the brewery feel, this place is definitely for you. Bring a jacket if it's cold. There is upstairs seating, lounge seating, bar top seating, and outdoor seating. On the back side of the building parking can be tight and sparse. However there is plenty of parking on the front side of the building and on the street just a short walk away. There is really only this brewery in this industrial complex, so it's a good things that they have a good size menu of food to choose from. It seems very family friendly, big picnic benches to accommodate large parties of people. They also do quarter poor, so if you are a tasting enthusiast, you can try all. Of their beers without spending a fortune. Restrooms for customers, spacious facility. Very well maintained place.

Cheryl Nasser

29 Aug 2025

Here right now! Happy Thursday! Great tasting brews, tried their Hefeweizen and Pilsner. Both were full bodied with nice flavorful notes. For a brewery they have a decent food menu. We had the Thursday special, 3 tacos for $12. Choices of birria, Carnitas and kimchi and tried all three. They were absolutely delicious with the meat flavorful, tender and juicy. Large space with plenty of seating. Busy already at 3:30pm! Fun and engaging staff!

Patrick Ryan

20 Aug 2025

Very nice place. Lots of fun places to sit and hang out. The food is excellent and the beers are great but they're mostly IPAs. Not enough sours or stouts which are my favorite. Too many kids, too, and the parking isn't great. I prefer The BrewHouse a lot more because of their huge beer selection with something for everyone. They offer great, free entertainment too and there is plenty of parking. Plus, you have to be over 21 to enter. The food is pretty limited though but the chili dogs are awesome and huge and you can bring your own food. Sometimes they have food trucks too.

Adrian Yuen

01 Jul 2025

Nice brewery with food options. I only had beer.... Will try the food when I get back here.

M planetmike

28 Jun 2025

as expected, the flights of beers on the day were good and always fun. Good service at the bar, What was more impressive was the food! We will return.

James Murnane

24 Jun 2025

Great vibes and great beer. They have a lot of beers, I liked the Ourglass IPA. They also had plenty of sandwich options- the chicken salad sandwich was good. Hidden spot but not far off the freeway and right next to biking paths. It’s a big space with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Good vibes for friends, family, anybody.

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