San Dimas Backyard BBQs + the Right Beer Pairings

Jason Hargrove
Oct 23
5 min read

Outdoor dinner party at night, people seated at a wooden table with hanging lights. A lute and drinks are visible, creating a cozy ambiance. — A group of friends in San Dimas enjoying a grilled feast in the back yard.

The sun is out, the San Gabriel Mountains are looking sharp, and the unmistakable scent of barbecue is in the San Dimas air. It’s a perfect day. The only thing that could make it better is cracking open the perfect craft beer, one that doesn’t just wash down your food but makes every bite taste even better. But which one? The wall of options at the store can be intimidating. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

For the best San Dimas BBQ beer pairings, match rich meats like brisket with a local Porter, classic burgers with a crisp IPA, and grilled chicken with a refreshing Blonde Ale. Local breweries like Highpoint Brewing Company and Feathered Serpent Brewery offer perfect options for every grill-out.

Planning the Perfect Grill + Beer Day in San Dimas

A legendary BBQ starts with a plan. Whether you’re a DIY grill master who lives for the process or you just want to grab some top-tier grub to-go, San Dimas has you covered.

Sourcing Your BBQ Feast

If you’re firing up your own grill, quality meat is non-negotiable. Head over to The Corner Butcher Shop (https://cornerbutchershop.com/) in nearby La Verne for USDA Prime cuts, house-made sausages, and even pre-smoked meats like brisket and tri-tip that will make you look like a pro.¹ For convenience right in town, the full-service butcher counters at Albertsons (https://local.albertsons.com/ca/san-dimas/220-e-bonita-ave/meat-seafood.html), Vons (https://local.vons.com/ca/san-dimas/1160-via-verde-ave/meat-seafood.html), and Stater Bros. Markets (https://www.staterbros.com/stores/56/) have everything you need to get grilling.²

Want the flavor without the fuss? Let someone else handle the smoker. Grab some authentic Hawaiian BBQ from Kahu Hawaiian BBQ (https://kahuhawaiibbq.com/) on Bonita Avenue, where the Kalbi Short Ribs and Hawaiian BBQ Mix are local legends.⁵ Or, check out Dixie Rose BBQ (https://chambermaster.sandimaschamber.org/list/member/dixie-rose-bbq-maez-restaurant-group-1007), another local spot dedicated to classic smoked barbecue.⁸

Finding Your Grilling Spot

Got the food but need the space? San Dimas is home to some amazing parks with public BBQ grills. For a full day of fun, you can’t beat the massive Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park (https://parks.lacounty.gov/frank-g-bonelli-regional-park/), which has picnic areas and grills scattered around its 1,800 acres.¹⁰ For a more neighborhood feel, both Lone Hill Park (https://sandimasca.gov/business_detail_T5_R55.php) and Via Verde Park (https://locoscout.com/location_detail.php?location_id=952) offer public grills perfect for a family cookout.¹²

The Ultimate San Dimas BBQ Beer Pairings Guide

Alright, the stage is set. Now for the main event: pairing that amazing food with the perfect beer. The golden rule is to match intensity. Big, bold food needs a big, bold beer. Lighter food calls for something more delicate. Here’s how to nail your San Dimas BBQ beer pairings every time.

For Rich, Smoky Meats: Brisket, Ribs & Pulled Pork

When you’re dealing with the deep, smoky, and fatty goodness of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, you need a beer that can stand up to it. Malty and robust styles are your best friends here. The roasted notes in a Porter or Stout will mirror the char on the meat, while the subtle sweetness of a Brown Ale balances the richness.

San Dimas Pick: Grab a growler of the Puddingstone Porter or the Highpoint Tango Brown from Highpoint Brewing Company (https://highpoint-brewing-company.wheree.com/). These local brews have the perfect roasty character to make that brisket sing.¹⁴

For Lighter Fare: Chicken, Sausages & Veggies

Grilled chicken, spicy sausages, or veggie skewers have more delicate flavors, so you want a beer that complements, not crushes. Crisp, clean, and refreshing is the way to go. A Blonde Ale, a light Lager, or a classic Pilsner will cleanse your palate and let the flavor of the food shine through.

San Dimas Pick: Try the Two Fine Blondes from Highpoint Brewing Company (https://highpoint-brewing-company.wheree.com/) or the Bridgetown Blonde from Feathered Serpent Brewery (https://featheredserpentbrewery.com/).¹⁵ Both are fantastic with grilled chicken. For something extra crisp, grab Feathered Serpent’s Juan For The Road Mexican Lager. It’s a perfect match for anything with a little spice.¹⁹

Let the Beer Come to You: Backyard Beer in San Dimas

You’ve sourced your meat, picked your park, and mastered your pairings. The only thing left is the beer run. Or is it? Instead of navigating the aisles at Total Wine & More or Vons, what if the best craft beer in Los Angeles just showed up at your door?

That’s what we do. Brwtxt is a craft beer delivery service that keeps your fridge stocked with amazing new releases and local favorites. We make sure you always have the right beer for any occasion, whether it’s a Tuesday night or the biggest backyard beer bash of the year in San Dimas. Check out how it works and see our latest .

FAQ: Your San Dimas BBQ Beer Questions Answered

Where can I find local craft beer in San Dimas?

You can visit the taprooms at Highpoint Brewing Company () and Feathered Serpent Brewery () right here in San Dimas to try their beers fresh from the source. For the ultimate convenience, a service like Brwtxt delivers a curated selection of local and regional craft beers directly to your home.

What's a good, easy-drinking beer for a mixed crowd at a San Dimas BBQ?

For a crowd-pleaser, stick with a versatile and approachable style. A Mexican Lager like Highpoint’s Cabo San Dimas or a Blonde Ale like Feathered Serpent’s Bridgetown Blonde are excellent choices. They’re light, refreshing, and pair well with a wide variety of grilled foods.

Are there any San Dimas parks where I can grill and drink beer?

Several San Dimas parks, including Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park and Lone Hill Park, have public BBQ grills. However, regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public parks can vary and change. Always check the current rules on the official City of San Dimas Parks & Recreation website () and LA County Parks website () and adhere to the guidelines set by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) ().

What IPA from San Dimas is best for a spicy BBQ sauce?

A classic West Coast IPA is your best bet for spicy sauces. The hop bitterness helps to balance and cut through the heat. Try the Nice Day IPA from Highpoint Brewing Company, which has that quintessential citrusy and piney character that stands up perfectly to spice.

Can I get beer from San Dimas breweries delivered?

Yes. Brwtxt specializes in delivering fresh craft beer from the best breweries in the region, including local gems, right to your doorstep in San Dimas. This ensures you can enjoy local favorites without ever leaving the house.