Ya gotta try this place once to know you'll be coming back. The staff and patrons are fun and friendly. The beer selection is good and plentiful and the food trucks offer the same. Bingo nights are more fun than we deserve and if you have a friendly dog, bring it too. read more

Great beer. Food truck "dining". Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Uncomfortable seating. read more

The beer is good. Plenty of beers to choose from. The inside has some character, but does need some work. Female bartender (Noelle) is great. She was very polite, and happy to assist with beers on tap. HOWEVER..I just witnessed a male bartender (Andrew) be very rude to a group of three older people. He asked their last name so he could find what I assume to be their credit card in the computer, so that they could add more drinks to their tab. The customer nicely told him that they have had trouble in the past finding their name, so she continued to repeat it a couple of times. Andrew stopped what he was doing to remind her that he heard her the first time, and is why he only asked her once. When he found the name and he verified their order, the lady apologized, and Andrew continued to humilate her, saying that he understands, but had only asked her once for her name. I was embarrassed for the lady as the area became pretty quiet around her. This lack of professionalism and empathy may be why I don't return. Two stars, when this place has 4 to 5 star potential. read more

Big Top Brewing is a terrific microbrewery located down in Sarasota, right off I-75 at the Palmer Road exit. You'll find this small brewery at the back of an industrial park, and next to a motorcycle repair garage. Big Top's Mike Bisaha and Brewmaster Josh Wilson brought their love for small-batch craft beer to this 6,000-square-foot, 30-barrel, locally owned and operated facility. Their beers are playfully themed to compliment Sarasota's historical associations with The Ringling Circus, and all of the cultural attractions of the area. As a result, Big Top features beers like Trapeze Monk Belgian Wit, Circus City IPA, Suncoast Pale Ale, and Conch Republic Key Lime Wheat. They brew roughly 150 new beers a year, always testing new flavors and styles. New beers are tapped in the tasting room every Tuesday & Friday, so you're assured of getting something different each time that you visit. Right now they are featuring a Creme Brûlée Stout, Pineapple Pale Ale, Hawaiian Lion Coconut Coffee Porter, and Hotter Blonde Jalapeno Blonde Ale. These guys are not afraid to experiment with flavors, so you have a suggestion don't be afraid to offer your thoughts. Salted Pretzel State Fair Stout looks interesting, The brewery and tasting room are small, but don't let that fool you. What is does mean is that the person behind the bar is usually the guy who's also working back in the brewery, and if it's not busy he'll gladly give you a tour of their operation, including all of the big stainless steel tanks. This is a much more casual operation, and not some big corporate brewery, so feel free to ask lots of questions while sipping on a mighty tasty frosty cold Adult beverage. Big Top has live entertainment on the weekends, and impromptu pop-up concerts during the week. If you're planning a small gathering, they'll contract with the Corner Grill to bring in some barbeque to pair with your beer. These are some of the most unique brews in the Tampa Bay area, and I highly recommend a visit to their brewery. Brews are available on tap, or packaged in cans and growlers. read more

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Good beer, crabby bartenders with no masks. Wouldn't recommend if you're not vaccinated

Had a flight. Hawaiian Lion was delicious. as was the peanut butter brown ale. Key lime very good also. Pretzels butter with beer cheese was tasty. The jerk chicken lettuce wraps were the best, be warned they are pretty spicy. Chris and Lauren were friendly and helpful. If I'm back in town I'd definitely return. read more

You know that saying, don't judge a book by its cover? That saying basically sums up Big Top Brewing. Nestled in the middle of nowhere in what looks to be around an industrial area, lies this hidden gem. Not only do they have a fine selection of their own in house beers, but they also have a few guest taps which is always nice. The inside of the brewery is fun, they have several TVs and also a small arcade area. Outside they have a large patio with plenty of seating; however, beware, I75 is right there and it can be pretty loud. The beertenders were very knowledgeable. I really liked that their cans are designed by local artist, they are definitely not something you see elsewhere. Price point is typical for a brewery, beers range starting at about $5. The only thing I did not like about it was how remote it is. Even ordering food is a hassle because nothing is close by. Thankfully they have a few businesses that delivers, but even that took a while. If I'm ever in the area, I'd likely go back. They had some really tasty beers. read more

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We all had a wonderful time however the music was way way too loud, when the guy who was mixing it was asked to make it lower on several occasions it was totally ignored. I understand certain music should be loud and enjoyed but there is a level and louder is not always better, there was also quite a bit of distortion, it spoiled the evening for so many people. read more

Why 5 stars? Because they need to be on the Mount Rushmore of local beer. --- --- --- It's a little bit of a drive from the technical border of what's considered "Tampa Bay," but it's worth every second on the road. Big Top prides itself on creativity - they once brewed a Turducken beer. That is not a typo. I was not lucky enough to try it, but that gives you a idea of what they're capable of. I've tried the Trapeze Monk Belgian Wit, the Strawberry Saison, the Key Lime Wheat, and the Hawaiian Lion Coffee Coconut Porter. All were phenomenal. I'm not even a Key Lime fan, but this this is an easy drinker with just the right amount of Key Lime. The Strawberry Saison is not too "Saison-y" which is my scientific explanation. Some Saison's are overwhelmingly sweet and almost remind me more of sangria than beer, but this is not one of them. Definitely the best saison I've ever had. And the Coffee Coconut Porter is, once again, one of the best porters I've ever had. Notice a theme here? Big Top has an incredible variety of beers, but the quantity doesn't sacrifice quality. I want to live here. read more

Everything was super tasty! From the sours and seltzer's to the stouts and everything in between was delicious and very drinkable. The atmosphere was really nice, the inside was a bit darker and the outside had some fire pits going. Bartender was very helpful with recommendations and suggestions on food delivery (Monday's the kitchen is not open). I personally liked the green tea sour! read more

Second time through. Wanted to get a run through a couple beers before I tossed a review. First, the tasting room is very well done. Small enough to keep it cozy, but large enough to accommodate a couple large groups of people. Both times I've been here there has also been really good live music and food truck service. Now for the good stuff, the beer. I've tried two of their staples, the key lime wheat and white sands wheat and both are light and full of flavor. Tonight I'm trying a new release, cracked pepper orange saison and it's spot on. Never been a fan of saisons but this one could change all that. Overall this is one of the better breweries I've visited and I'm lucky enough to have it 3 miles from my home. read more

Big Top Brewing - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Stopped in for a growler to-go and stayed for a flight. Sitting along side I-75 I've passed by here many times and today I had the time to stop. Tonya greeted me as I walked in and showed me what was on tap. I ordered a growler of their IPA. A side note is that they will fill any growler, not only their own. I decided to go with a flight IPA - Great after taste Ashley IPA - Amazing taste a must drink Honey Jalapeno - You could taste the honey and the jalapeno separately Black IPA - One of the best IPA's I've ever tasted. The prices are very reasonable, I left with a 32oz growler and a pint glass for less than $14.00 read more

Big Top Brewing - Beer flight - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Great Brewery! When you walk in, you are greeted by a very relaxed vibe. The decor is basically focused on dark wood (floors, tables and bar) which makes it very welcoming. They have several TVs and an open area in the back of the brewery room for dart board and jenga. If you want to play where you are sitting, there are some smaller games scattered around the bar and table area. There's a large chalkboard that lists which beers are available for that day. The staff is very friendly and attentive and want to ensure that you are happy with your selection. There are plenty of beers on tap. Some of their staple beers: IPA, Belgian Wit, and their Key Lime Wheat. For a refreshing twist on Florida Key Limes, I would recommend trying the Key Lime Wheat - it has a slight tart taste of Key Lime with a graham cracker finish. It's a very light refreshing beer that's tasty on a hot humid Florida day. They also get inventive on their beers. They've had a Coconut & Coffee Porter, a Bacon & S'mores Stout, a Honey & Jalapenos Blonde beer - so you get the picture. They definitely don't hold back when they have an idea for unusual pairings. It's definitely worth trying. They are family friendly and do host family friendly events regularly. There were several kids in there playing jenga with their parents when I was there. The brewery does have a cute, little, shy dash-hound doggie too. It's well worth the road trip from the Tampa Bay area or if you're just driving I-75 it's right off the highway. Definitely worth the detour to make a stop inside to try their beer! read more

Big Top Brewing - Nice atmosphere, good beer, plenty on tap and TVs to watch - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Nice group of people work here and come here to have a beer. This group is mixed with families, yes families hanging out on the side, and couples, and groups of young friends enjoying beer games. The beer is the reason clearly to come here and stay. There is a beer for anyone, so don't be shy, stop on by, relax and meet some locals. My only recommendation is to eat a good meal before coming here. The food trucks are nice but limited. read more

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Delicious craft beers, friendly bartenders, and comfortable atmosphere. Also with some beers with a local twist like the key lime beer and the mojito Berliner Weiss. If this was located in the dreary Midwest where I live, it would have everything that I would want out of a microbrew taproom. However, I do think the location is lacking in windows and natural light for being located in sunny Florida! It's kind of a bummer to be in Florida with their beautiful weather but to be indoors with not a single window! read more

We had a small engagement party at the brewery, and I could not wait to give them a review. We had a fantastic time! The food was excellent, the staff was so friendly and accommodating, and of course everyone loved the beer! We would 100% recommend Big Top Brewing for an event or to just pop in and have a beer and some food! 10/10 reccommend the wings, brats with pretzel roll, and grilled Mexican corn read more

Big Top Brewing - Big Top Brewery - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Awesome tasting beer, great atmosphere and great service. I wish they had one in California.

Great brew and awesome atmosphere. Love the selection on tap and always have good live music.

Worth trying for sure. The sampler we got was pretty good, not my taste, but everyone has different opinions on beer so I would suggest trying this place! The interior was chill, games to play, nice service! Thanks! read more

Fantastic place to have a nice meal and hear Great Music! Please tell Dean we would like to hear The Mike Merola Trio with Joe Bruno! That would be super! We also enjoy Steve Paradise there! read more

In our quest to visit as many Micro breweries as we can when traveling, we ventured out to Big Top before dinner one night and were very impressed with the atmosphere, service and the huge selection of beers they offer. I'm an IPA guy so I went with the Circus city IPA and really enjoyed it. The missus is a brown ale fan and was pleased by the amount of selections for these they offered she had a flight of 4, her favorites being the Thanks Guys dark ale and the Dry Irish stout on nitro. As we are yearly pilgrims to SK we will be visiting again,as previously stated the service was as we impressive as the beer !! read more

Great little brewery. I love the Raspberry Berliner so I bought 2 cases! If in the area I'd stop in to check out the beer selections as they are not on Untappd & they don't list it on their website. PB& J was as good as the real deal read more

Nice hidden gem! Great beer. I really enjoyed the Key Lime Brew. Refreshing. They have a dartboard and a small selection of food. But they're cool with you ordering food in. We had a pizza delivered and they let us use their paper plates which was very nice. Cool little spot. read more

Big Top Brewing - I love this brewery!! Try the Key Lime Beer. - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

very nice place , great Atmosphere and very nice staff that help with anything. very recomended

I love big top ! Friendly staff great beers , people , environment ! Def one of The top breweries in Sarasota ! read more

Love the new space, great inside and outdoor area. Definitely a cool place to hang with hood beers.

This place is hidden in an industrial park but very worth finding. Dark inside which is fine and so many good brews I don't know where to start. I had the Trapeze Monk and then tried the Pumpkin Stilkson or whatever it was called. Take it easy on the pumpkin stuff it's 8% or so. We bought a big bottle of it to take home so we could drink it when we wanted and not ha e to get a ride home. Patio outback has a great view of I-75 but who cares it's nice and they have different food trucks that swing by. Grab a brew and a sticker and get a stamp if you have the Tampa Ale Trail passport. We will be back soon and can't wait to see what they ha e next. read more

We came down for the 3 year anniversary and it was a blast! There were tigers, a tightrope walker, acrobatics and lots of food and beer. They did an amazing job in planning such an elaborate party! My favorite here is the Trapeze Monk but I had a collaboration with Darwin while we were there that was really good as well. The tasting room consists of a bar area that is smallish with a fair amount of seating as well as outdoor seating which is partially covered and has a few games. This is a bit of a drive from St Pete but well worth venturing to when you've got a free Saturday! read more

The Big Top Brewery is set in the theme of a circus, with circus décor all around and some beers named after circus items. I really like the feel of this place. It's really dark and has a lot of really cool décor. The beer selection is pretty good, and I wanted to try several. I ended up ordering a flight, so that I could sample a bunch. The flights are $7 for four beers, which is very reasonable. I also ended up buying a bottle of the "State Fair Chocolate Peanut butter, pretzel Stout". It was only $10, which I found to be a bargain! It was hands down my favorite. The staff was very helpful in assisting me in deciding on a beer choice. I wish I lived closer to this place, because it was a rare gem! read more

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Their beer game is strong. Customer service is super good. Everybody was very nice. The place is clean, nice vibe on the patio. I saw a negative review that spoke of poor beers. I disagree. I've been to every brewery in Vermont and a ton elsewhere. These guys are doing just fine. read more

Big Top Brewing - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

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From California to Colorado to the East Coast, This is one of my top three favorite breweries in the country. Driving down I-75 to Sarasota from Tampa bay I spotted this place on the side of the road. I was in the mood for some beerslporation. I had a hankering for a coffee beer and to my surprise they had several! I split a couple of flights with my drinking partner and, save for two unsavory (though not wholly disgusting) taps, I was blown away. My favorite? The Hawaiian Lion, a coconut coffee porter. I am no stranger to craft beer but I lack the genre vocabulary so I will not insult the beer lover by attempting to describe this particularly stand-up brew in beerspeak. In simpleton language, it tastes exactly as the label suggests. It's rich with a hint of sweet. I could drink it all day but at 7.5%, I wouldn't last on the Lion for long. I second that sentiment for the peanut butter chocolate brown ale, Decklins Indulgence. I was once dubious of peanut butter chocolate beer. No longer, my friends. It's better than a Reese Cup (and I love me some Reese's). The only pour I don't recommend is the Conch Republic Key Lime Wheat. A lime wheat beer is conceptually brilliant, but my partner and I both picked up on a slightly soapy aftertaste. I see it in a lot of local stores and restaurants though, so I'm assuming the general population feels otherwise. Go nuts and give it a try. Regardless of where you live and what you're into, Big Top boasts a wide selection, friendly service and bang-up beer. Don't drive past. read more

It's really hard for me to hate on local breweries. I think they are all awesome and I'm so in favor of branching out from the big companies and supporting the local community. With that being said, I am not a big fan of Big Top. I think their beers are not very good. They mostly have a lot of dark and weird combinations, although I appreciate their boldness. I'm also not a huge fan of the tap room, it's pretty small and loud. The outside area is pretty nice when it's cold out and they have the fire going. They still helped bring craft beer to Sarasota so I'm thankful for that! read more

Lets start off with the positive; The inside is really cute and open. The back patio is quite large with plenty of seating and games, with a nice breeze. Dog friendly laid back atmosphere Negative: The beer was not very good. No ciders I tried the Ringmaster Raspberry Berliner, very sour like a warhead was melted down and added in, it was tolerable. My boyfriend added there is nothing special about the beer and he's had better, it was alright. The back patio is right next to the highway so it really loud during the day and 3 AC units back there too add to the noise level. terrible hours closing at 10 mon- sat and at 8 on sun day, I guess thats good for the employees but if you do dinner and want to get drinks after there is not much time to get down there before they close. we might give it another time but honestly it wont be our first choice when other breweries are in town and better. read more

Beer was great but the service sucked. Christi needs a lesson or three in customer service. Talking about how crappy the tools she has to work with to her boss on the phone in front customers. The rap music she's playing sucks too. One beer was all we could tolerate here. Hadn't been here in a while, won't be back. read more

Stopped by Big Top while in town to see my Orioles in Sarasota. Sure am glad I did. Not usually a fan of wheat beers but the conch republic key lime was awesome. Followed that up with a Circus City IPA and then the Hazy Highwire. I'd recommend all three. The bar wasn't overly busy but had a very friendly crowd and the service was fantastic. Definitely going to make Big Top a regular stop on my yearly spring trip. read more

Really great beer definitely worth it. I highly recommend this place. The bartender was really friendly and did a great job recommending the type of beer! read more

Awesome place !! Chill atmosphere and the bartenders are really cool. The decor is great, music is great, beer is awesome, plus a fun outdoor area. Definitely worth checking this place out ! read more

Friendly atmosphere, authentic good beers, nice inside and outside. Food truck made awesome smoked salmon and macaroni & cheese. We started off inside then went to the patio. We stayed warm and very comfortable by the fire pit outside, our entire experience there was great! read more

Beer Stop 154 ---- For whatever reason, I was always a bit skeptical about checking out Big Top Brewing. Maybe I didn't like the name, but I never actually sought out coming here when in town. Ultimately, I left with mixed feelings. I tried several samples here - while some IPAs were a bit "off", Okefenokee Chocolate Stout and Ashlee Gang IIPA were too die for. Several other beers just had too much going on - for instance: Strawberry / Marshmallow Saison - couldnt distinguish between each flavor and was too acidic in the nose, Orange Ale - didnt really taste any Orange ingredients. Big Top does have one or two standouts but the rest just fell short! read more

Love having a good local brewery. Be sure to check out the limited production runs. They just won the bronze medal at the us open for beer. They are going to go far. Great craft beers laid back environment waiting for the back patio to open. read more

Big Top Brewing - Excellent local brewery. Be sure to check out the limited runs. - Breweries Near Me - Sarasota, Florida