Ground Breaker is a great place for beer lovers. All the beers are all naturally gluten-free and use ingredients like chestnuts and lentils. It’s incredibly inventive and amazing to try whether or not you’re allergic to gluten.
On the Menu: The Beer Lineup
Groundbreaker has a pale ale, dark ale, IPA, and an “Olallie” Ale, which supposedly means berry. They also have a wide variety of seasonal brews depending on the time of year you decide to visit.
- Dark Ale: A rich, robust beer with notes of chocolate and roasted chestnuts, this ale is perfect for those who enjoy deeper, more complex flavors.
- IPA No. 5: This India Pale Ale is a hop lover’s dream, featuring a blend of Pacific Northwest hops that impart a citrusy and piney aroma.
- Pale Ale: A well-balanced beer with a crisp finish, the Pale Ale is versatile and approachable, making it a favorite among many.
- Olallie Ale: Infused with blackberries and lavender, this unique ale offers a refreshing twist with a hint of sweetness and floral notes.
Bonus: They also have gluten-free bar food! Corn dogs, onion rings, burgers and more.

To Get There
Located in East Portland: 2030 SE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Portland is paradise for those with gluten intolerances. Ground Breaker’s brewmaster James of takes gluten free brewing to the next level. With a nearly endless amount of materials to work with like Chestnuts, Squash, Lentils, Tomatoes, and other fun grains/fruits, he has created some really fun beers that taste great.
— Evan Cohan, Beercycling
The History
Founded in 2011 by James Neumeister, Ground Breaker Brewery emerged from a personal need for gluten-free options. Diagnosed with celiac disease, Neumeister faced the challenge of finding high-quality, gluten-free beer. Rather than settling for subpar options, he took matters into his own hands, launching Ground Breaker with a mission to create beers that anyone could enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Ground Breaker’s commitment to gluten-free brewing is evident in every step of their process. They use naturally gluten-free ingredients such as chestnuts, sorghum, lentils, and gluten-free oats instead of traditional barley and wheat. This dedication ensures that there is no risk of cross-contamination, a crucial factor for those with severe gluten sensitivities.
Their state-of-the-art facility is exclusively gluten-free, eliminating any chance of gluten exposure. This meticulous attention to detail extends to their sourcing practices, where they partner with local farmers to obtain the highest quality ingredients, further enhancing the flavor and authenticity of their brews.
Do you know any other great breweries in Portland we should try? Please leave them in the comments below.