Discover Mano Negra Brewing Co: Lubbock’s Newest Craft Haven

Just last week, Lubbock welcomed its first and only Latino-owned nano-brewery, Mano Negra Brewing Co. situated in Downtown Lubbock! Founded by Puerto Rican native and brewmaster Daniel Badillo, this intimate taproom is already buzzing with excitement, offering unique craft beers, sangrias, and even non-alcoholic selections, all served with community and culture at the heart of every pour.

A Story of Homebrew Dreams & Cultural Roots

Daniels’ journey began in 2014 when he and his family moved from Puerto Rico to Lubbock. His brewing passion ignited when his wife gifted him a homebrew kit on Christmas, and by 2017, he had committed to bringing Mano Negra to life, selling craft sodas at the Wolfforth Farmers Market and penning his brewery plan on the back of a napkin at lunch. Two years later, he secured a space in Downtown Lubbock and, in 2021, took the leap, leaving his day job to devote himself fully to the dream of creating a brewery deeply rooted in Latino culture and heritage.

Bold & Flavorful Brews

At Mano Negra, each sip is an experience. Their flagship Ma’s Cream Ale is a light, corny, and refreshing ale, a perfect introduction to their lineup. Coffee lovers will enjoy the Yagrumo Coffee Ale, while adventurous drinkers can try the Zaragoza Xalapeno Saison, loaded with bold jalapeno flavor minus the scorch. On top of that, there’s an entire rotating roster of beers, from tropical stouts to malt-forward IPAs, plus sangrias like Sunset, Tropical, Sandia, Cinnamon, and the namesake Mano Sangria. Non-alcoholic mojitos and agave-wine cocktails round out the offerings.

Whether you’re craving a crisp Golden Ale or a lively salsa night, Mano Negra delivers local personality with every pint. The taproom hosts weekly events, like salsa lessons on Wednesdays (with a free cana for first-timers), trivia nights, comedy evenings, and art-show meet-ups that turn these walls into a welcoming community space. It’s more than just a brewery, it’s a celebration of Lubbock’s creativity and inclusivity, anchored by the passion of a Puerto Rican-born brewer who dared to dream.

Swing by Mano Negra Brewing Co. at 708 13th Street and experience the flavor, the folklore, and the fun. Cheers to craft beer with character!