Craft Beer Berlin: Discovering the City’s Hidden Taprooms & Brewpubs
Berlin. A city that’s known for its art, its history, its nightlife… and increasingly, its craft beer. Forget the mass-produced lager; we’re diving into the world of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and experimental brews. Berlin’s craft beer scene is a proper adventure, and I’m here to guide you through the best hidden taprooms and brewpubs the city has to offer.
The Pioneers: Breweries with a Story
Let’s start with the breweries that paved the way, the pioneers who brought craft beer to Berlin’s thirsty masses.
Brauhaus Lemke is one of Berlin’s oldest craft breweries, with several locations throughout the city. They brew a range of traditional German beer styles, as well as some more experimental brews. Their taprooms are a great place to sample their beers fresh from the source, and the atmosphere is always lively and welcoming. I particularly enjoy their “Pils,” a classic German lager that’s crisp and refreshing.
Another pioneer is Eschenbräu, a small brewery located in Wedding. They brew their beers on-site using traditional methods, and their taproom is a cosy and intimate space. Their “Weizenbock,” a strong wheat beer, is a must-try.
The New Wave: Innovation and Experimentation
Berlin’s craft beer scene is constantly evolving, with a new wave of breweries pushing the boundaries of brewing.
Muted Horn is a haven for hop heads. This bar, located in Prenzlauer Berg, boasts an impressive selection of beers on tap and in bottles, with a focus on hoppy IPAs and Pale Ales. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their beer.
BRLO Brwhouse is a modern brewery located in a former railway yard in Kreuzberg. They brew a range of innovative and experimental beers, and their taproom is a stylish and industrial space. They also have a restaurant, serving up delicious food to pair with their beers.
IN BERLIN, EVERY PINT IS A STORY, A CELEBRATION OF CRAFT, AND A JOURNEY THROUGH THE CITY’S UNIQUE SPIRIT.
Beyond the City Centre: Discovering Neighbourhood Gems
Berlin’s craft beer scene isn’t confined to the city centre. Venture into the neighbourhoods, and you’ll discover a wealth of hidden taprooms and brewpubs.
Rollberg Brauerei is a brewery located in Neukölln, known for its traditional German beer styles. Their taproom is a cosy and welcoming space, and they often have live music, creating a lively atmosphere.
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Berlin is a unique brewery and restaurant, located in a former gasworks in Mariendorf. They brew a range of American-style craft beers, and their taproom is a vast and impressive space. They also have a beautiful beer garden, perfect for a summer afternoon. If you are exploring Berlin on a budget, and want to find some affordable places to drink, have a look at my article Berlin on a Budget: How to Experience the City Without Breaking the Bank.
The Taproom Experience: Sampling Berlin’s Best
Many of Berlin’s breweries have their own taprooms, offering a chance to sample their beers fresh from the source. This is a great way to experience the local beer culture and chat with the brewers.
Pfefferbräu in Prenzlauer Berg has a charming taproom, where you can enjoy their handcrafted beers and soak up the local atmosphere.
Heidenpeters is another brewery with a popular taproom, located in the Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg. They brew a range of seasonal and experimental beers, and their taproom is a lively and vibrant space.
A Craft Beer Crawl: Exploring Berlin’s Beer Scene
To truly experience Berlin’s craft beer scene, embark on a craft beer crawl. Start in Prenzlauer Berg, explore the breweries and bars in Kreuzberg, and finish your journey in Neukölln.
A Toast to Berlin’s Craft Beer: Celebrating the City’s Brewing Spirit
Berlin’s craft beer scene is more than just a trend; it’s a celebration of the city’s creativity and its passion for good beer. Exploring Berlin’s hidden taprooms and brewpubs is a journey through the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and a chance to connect with its vibrant culture. Every pint tells a story, and every sip is an invitation to savour the unique flavours and spirit of Berlin.
