Lower Nob Hill Brewery Infuses Indian Flavors Into Beer
The basement-based 28 States Brewing now distributes more than a dozen unique varieties across the Bay Area.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Beer
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Residents in Lower Nob Hill might notice the scent of toasted coriander coming from beneath Sushi Sato, where 28 States Brewing has scaled up its operations. The brewery produces over a dozen beers inspired by South Asian ingredients and currently distributes them from Fremont to Glen Ellen.
Why it matters
The brewery transitioned from a home-based hobby to professional production in 2025 following a distribution collaboration, helping to diversify the local craft beverage landscape. The expansion reflects a growing trend of integrating regional culinary traditions into the San Francisco beer scene.
The brewery produces more than 12 different beer varieties, including the 5.5% ABV Koko Singh lager, at an annual volume of 270 barrels. Sales have increased over the previous four months, though future production targets remain unknown.
The players
28 States Brewing
A San Francisco brewery located in Lower Nob Hill that specializes in using Indian ingredients and spices.
Barebottle Brewing
A local brewing partner that assisted the startup with its professional distribution network in 2025.
The details
The brewery uses distinctive techniques, such as open fermentation for its Haryana Weizen and toasting spices like saffron, to create its flavor profiles. The founder, who moved from homebrewing to professional production, now relies on a 2025 distribution agreement to supply bars and restaurants across the region. The operation remains located in a basement space in Lower Nob Hill.
Timeline
2025: A collaboration with Barebottle Brewing secured distribution channels.
Past four months: Sales figures for the brewery grew dramatically.
Across the Bay
The brewery's recent growth follows the pattern set by its 2025 distribution collaboration, which served as the essential bridge from home-scale production to the regional commercial market. This scaling reflects a broader trend of small, specialty producers leveraging existing craft infrastructure to reach a wider Bay Area audience.
Residents can find the brewery's products, including the Koko Singh lager, at various restaurants and bars across the Bay Area. While the operation is based in Lower Nob Hill, the distribution network now spans from Fremont to Glen Ellen.
The takeaway
San Franciscans interested in new flavor profiles should look for the 28 States Brewing label at local bars and restaurants. Watch for the brewery's seasonal releases as they continue to refine their spice-toasting techniques for future batches.
Further reading
Learn more about the local craft scene in the Beer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The San Francisco Standard.
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