Located in the scenic foothills of the Cascades, Formula Brewing has quickly become a standout force in the Pacific Northwest’s craft beer scene. As Issaquah’s first and only brewery, Formula Brewing combines innovative brewing methods with a strong community focus, setting a new bar for excellence both “in glass” and “out of glass.” From first-time tasters to seasoned beer enthusiasts, this forward-thinking brewery invites everyone to experience the craft of beer as it was meant to be.
A Brewery Built From the Ground Up
Formula Brewing was founded with a simple mission: deliver exceptional beer in an environment that feels like home. Central to their operation is a 15-barrel American-made high-pressure steam brew house—a custom-built setup engineered to produce a diverse range of beer styles with unmatched consistency. Designed from the ground up, the brewing system enables Formula to pivot seamlessly from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, silky stouts to fruit-forward sours.
The brewery is also equipped with a dedicated mash tun that allows for decoction brewing, an old-world technique that requires additional time and precision. This method brings remarkable depth, clarity, and character to their lagers—something that only a handful of modern breweries attempt due to the difficulty and patience required. At Formula, it’s a signature part of their identity, proving their dedication to traditional craftsmanship.
The Man Behind the Brews: Jesse Brown
Leading the charge at Formula Brewing is Head Brewer Jesse Brown, whose reputation in the craft beer world continues to grow with every pour. Widely respected for his skill with lagers, Jesse also shines when it comes to crafting complex sours, hoppy IPAs, and seasonal favorites that strike the perfect balance of creativity and drinkability.
Thanks to his meticulous approach, Formula Brewing’s beer lineup is known for being consistently fresh, true to style, and crowd-pleasing across the board. It’s this attention to detail—and a healthy dose of innovation—that has helped Formula quickly build a loyal fanbase both locally and beyond.
Award-Winning Quality
Formula Brewing’s brewing excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. With 23 medals under their belt from top-tier state, national, and international competitions, they’ve proven they’re a serious player in the industry.
Their most notable performance came at the 2024 World Beer Cup, where they took home four medals, including a gold—a feat few breweries can claim. Prior to that, the 2023 Washington State competition saw them secure three golds and a silver, reinforcing their status as one of the state’s elite brewing operations.
Each of these accolades was awarded in double-blind judging formats, with evaluation by seasoned brewers and industry professionals, making the wins all the more meaningful.
The Taproom Experience: More Than Just Great Beer
Formula Brewing isn’t just a brewery—it’s a gathering place. Their taproom and beer garden have been thoughtfully designed to offer a warm, inclusive environment that caters to a wide audience. Whether you’re meeting friends after work, bringing the kids for a sunny afternoon, or stopping in with your pup, Formula makes everyone feel welcome.
The family-friendly space features indoor and outdoor seating, rotating food trucks, and community events that elevate the “out of the glass” experience. It’s not just about serving great beer—it’s about fostering connection, relaxation, and local pride.
Issaquah’s Brewing Pioneer
As the first and only brewery in Issaquah, Formula Brewing has earned its spot as both an innovator and a community favorite. Their commitment to craft fundamentals, combined with award-winning execution and an inviting atmosphere, makes it a true destination for anyone who appreciates quality beer and a memorable place to enjoy it.
