Anchor Brewing has been a part of San Francisco since the Gold Rush and has become a local favorite, but the beloved local brewery just announced its permanent closure after 127 years in business. The closure comes shortly after Anchor announced it was scaling back its distribution and halting production of a customer-favorite Christmas beer.
Anchor Brewing cited declining sales and economic factors leading to the closure. Spokesperson Sam Singer stated, “We recognize the importance and historic significance of Anchor to San Francisco and to the craft brewing industry, but the impacts of the pandemic, inflation, especially in San Francisco, and a highly competitive market left the company with no option but to make this sad decision to cease operations.”
The company has a rich history intertwined with SF and has become a San Francisco staple. The brewery is known for being a pioneer in the craft beer movement, particularly with its legendary steam beer.
The taproom will remain open until at least August 1, 2023, if you want to experience the brewery’s iconic craft beer before it shuts its doors.
Anchor Brewing started in 1871 when its first Brewmaster, Gottlieb Brekle, opened a brewery near Russian Hill. In 1896, Ernst F. Baruth and Otto Schinkel, Jr. bought the brewery and coined the Anchor name.
The brewery has had many ups and downs throughout its long history. The brewery closed its doors in 1959 before being bought, reopened in 1960, and was saved again by a last-minute purchase in 1965 to keep the doors open. Anchor’s history also includes many accomplishments, such as being the first brewery in the world to have its own in-house distillery. In 2017, Anchor opened its public taproom, and beer giant, Sapporo, purchased the brewery. The company celebrated a milestone anniversary of 125 years just two years ago in 2021.
You can find Anchor Public Taps at 495 De Haro Street, San Francisco, if you want to visit before August 1, 2023, to experience this historic brewery.