Mano Negra Brewing Co. & Sangria House — Attraction in Lubbock

Of the many hundreds of craft breweries I have visited around the US, only a handful have been owned by demographic minorities. When I find one, I am particularly excited, because I want to see more than just the predominant demo—white guys—creating and partaking of the brewer’s art.

But when I saw Mano Negra (“Black Hand”) online among other Lubbock breweries, I was thrilled. And because I was in town to visit all six breweries, there was no way I’d let this one slip by. In fact, I made it out to their location on Lubbock’s southwest side on my first night in town. Mano Negra is Lubbock’s only Latino-owned brewery. Of the nation’s nearly 10,000 breweries, only 2.2% are Hispanic- or Latino-owned.

While the tiny brewery had only four house beers on tap, they also had a couple from my Amarillo favorite, Pondaseta. Since I can get those at home any time, I opted for the Yagrumo Coffee Ale (6% ABV), a delightfully refreshing cream ale with a flavorful shot of coffee. I could drink this all night.

Since restraint is the better part of valor, I had only three glasses spread over a few hours, and bought a 32-ounce glass growler of it to take back home. There was an interesting mix of clientele, ranging from three guys on my left interested primarily in the Rangers/Cubs game, and a few university coeds to the right sipping house-made sangrias and munching on chicharrones.

And for that brief evening, I enjoyed patronizing a small place I expect to hear a lot more about. This was...

Easily the best brewery in Lubbock when it comes to atmosphere. The vibes are good and relaxing with cool art and tons of arcade games and board games. It’s also inside Cactus Alley, which I personally believe has the best patio/courtyard in Lubbock.

Mano Negra also prepares some exquisite sangrias and beers - and is affordable. Every server has also been incredibly nice.

Would recommend to anyone who wants a lowkey night with a drink!

Updated: 08/12/2025:

Editing my review because it’s been nearly two years since I wrote my first one. I still love the beer and sangria just as much as the first time I visited. That said, Mano Negra is no longer in Cactus Alley, so I believe this warrants a new update.

The new brewery off Broadway feels even more fresh and exciting! It’s more spacious for large crowds, and it’s centered in downtown, making it easy to get to from I-27 and Marsha Sharp — and is only a few exits away from the South Loop.

When I wrote my first review, I had not yet been part of any events, including Latin Night & DJ night, or trivia, but I think those evenings are what makes Mano some of the most special. Honored to be able to see this...

Plenty of parking, this place offers an energy different than youre usual bar places. The professionalism and education of the employees, is unmatched. Emma, was my server and showed a dedicated and educated understanding of her work place and products provided. The atmosphere provided an out of the country feel, and noise control enough to be able to have a conversation with those around you appropriately. Some of the drinks provide are jalapeño saison beer, tropical sangria, margarita agave. I mixed two flavors together, the sunset and mano, they call it the Rose. Genevieve (sorry if I misspelled that) Was also well versed in her profession. Mano Negra Brewing, thank you for the experience and welcoming comfortable environment. Keep doing...