Funguys Brewing - Raleigh, NC

Attraction: Funguys Brewing
Location: 2408 Paula St, Raleigh, NC 27608
Industry: Brewery
Website: https://funguysbrewing.com/

Behind an unassuming industrial facade on Paula Street sits one of Raleigh’s most celebrated craft breweries, where husband-and-wife duo Nick and Carly Brango have been pushing creative boundaries since 2018.

This mom-and-pop operation earned serious recognition when USA Today named them “Best New Brewery” in 2022 and “Best Beer Label” in 2023, proving that big flavors come from small batches.

Their seven-barrel brewing system allows them to experiment freely, crafting everything from award-winning IPAs to their signature “smoothsicles” and “shakes” that blur the line between beer and dessert.

You’ll discover a brewery that’s equal parts neighborhood hangout and brewing laboratory, where weekly releases keep the tap list fresh and the beer community coming back for more.

The Brangos relocated from Pittsburgh specifically to join Raleigh’s thriving craft beer scene, and their passion for flavor-forward ales and lagers shines through in every pour.

Signature Beers & Weekly Releases

New England Sunrise: Their flagship hazy IPA showcases Mosaic and Citra hops that deliver citrus-forward aromatics with just enough carbonation to keep things smooth. At 6% ABV, it’s approachable yet packed with the tropical fruit notes that IPA lovers crave.

Smoothsicles & Shakes: These taproom exclusives have become legendary among visitors, ranging from fruit-forward drinks to indulgent dessert styles like chocolate peanut butter, cookies and cream, and Orange Julius. The lactose-free and gluten-free “shakes” prove that innovation doesn’t require compromise.

Paula Street Pale Ale: Named after their location, this 5.5% crusher features Azacca and Mosaic hops that create serious pineapple aromatics. It’s their only flagship beer, designed for year-round enjoyment and perfect for those who want bold flavor without overwhelming strength.

Sour Beer Selection: You’ll find consistently rotating sour ales that showcase complex fermentation techniques, with each batch offering unique flavor profiles that keep sour beer enthusiasts making repeat visits.

German-Style Options: Their hefeweizen follows traditional German purity laws with 60% German wheat and 40% German pilsner, delivering classic banana and clove notes at 5.2% ABV. It’s refreshing enough for hot Carolina days yet characterful enough to satisfy discerning palates.

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Atmosphere & Décor

Industrial Charm: The brewery occupies a converted industrial space that maintains its authentic working-brewery feel while providing comfortable seating for both intimate conversations and larger groups. The aesthetic stays true to their craft-focused mission without unnecessary frills.

Indoor-Outdoor Flow: You’ll find both interior seating and outdoor options, perfect for taking advantage of North Carolina’s mild weather. The space never feels overcrowded, even during peak weekend hours.

Screen Setup: Multiple large screens ensure you can catch games while sampling flights, creating a laid-back sports bar atmosphere that doesn’t interfere with conversation. The volume stays reasonable, making it easy to chat with fellow beer enthusiasts or brewery staff.

Dog-Friendly Environment: Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the space, making it a popular spot for dog owners who want to include their four-legged friends in their brewery visits.

Other Considerations

Reasonable Pricing: The pricing falls into the mid-tier range for craft breweries, offering excellent value considering the quality and innovation level. Flight options let you sample multiple styles without breaking the bank, while full pours provide good value for premium craft beer.

Food Situation: While they don’t serve full meals, you’ll find snacks available on-site, and you’re welcome to bring your own food. Several excellent restaurants operate nearby, and they often host food trucks – check their social media for current availability.

Parking & Location: The brewery sits in an industrial area off Paula Street near Costco, which means ample parking is rarely an issue. The location might seem tucked away, but that’s part of the charm – you need to know where you’re going, making discovery feel like finding a hidden gem.

Best Times to Visit: Weekends see the most activity, especially Friday and Saturday afternoons when new releases often drop. Weekday evenings provide a more relaxed atmosphere for conversation and flights. Check their social media for special release announcements and collaboration beer launches.

Family Considerations: Despite being 21+ only, the atmosphere remains welcoming for responsible adults of all ages. The space accommodates both casual drinkers and serious beer geeks without alienating either group.

Distribution Growth: While their unique smoothsicles and shakes remain taproom exclusives, their regular beer lineup is expanding distribution to Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro bottle shops, though visiting the source remains the best experience.