Hops & Holidays: Your Guide to Craft Beer in Salou
Salou, the sun-drenched jewel of the Costa Dorada, is rightly famous for its golden beaches, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant nightlife. When it comes to drinks, images of cool sangria, local wines, and ubiquitous Spanish lagers often spring to mind. However, for the discerning beer enthusiast, a pleasant surprise awaits: a burgeoning appreciation for craft beer is starting to bubble up even in this popular holiday haven. While Salou might not yet be a craft beer mecca on the scale of Barcelona, seeking out unique brews can be a rewarding holiday pursuit. Join me, Francis, as we embark on a quest to discover where to find quality hops and interesting ales on your Salou holiday.
The Evolving Beer Scene in Salou
Traditionally, the beer landscape in Spanish resorts has been dominated by a few large national lager brands. These are undeniably refreshing in the warm climate, but for those with a taste for more complex flavours – the hoppy bite of an IPA, the rich depths of a stout, or the unique character of a Belgian ale – the search requires a little more dedication. Thankfully, an increasing number of establishments in Salou are recognising the global craft beer movement and are starting to diversify their offerings. This guide will help you navigate the scene, from bars with surprisingly good selections to tips on finding those elusive craft gems.
Salou’s Havens for Hop Heads: Where to Find Craft Beer
1. The Roadhouse Salou (Av. de Carles Buigas, 5): Route 66 Brews
For a taste of Americana alongside a promising beer menu, The Roadhouse Salou is a popular choice. Styled after a classic Route 66 grill and bar, this venue offers a lively atmosphere, often with live music, and a food menu featuring burgers, ribs, and other hearty fare. Crucially for beer lovers, The Roadhouse typically boasts a more extensive and varied beer selection than your average Salou bar. While you will find mainstream options, they often stock a good range of international beers and have been known to feature some craft or speciality brews. It is the kind of place where you can settle in for an entertaining evening and explore a beer list that goes beyond the standard offerings.
2. Stop Salou CervecerÃa Frankfurt (Carrer de Barbastre, 1): A German & Belgian Connection
The name “CervecerÃa” itself is a good sign for beer lovers, and Stop Salou CervecerÃa Frankfurt takes its beer seriously. While also known for its German-style sausages (Frankfurts), this establishment is often praised for its wide variety of beers. You are likely to find a good selection of German and Belgian brews here, which are often the gateway for many into the world of more flavourful beers beyond pale lagers. Keep an eye out for wheat beers, stronger Belgian ales, and other European specialities that offer a different taste experience. It is a solid spot for those looking to explore classic European beer styles.
3. Robin Hood Salou (Av. de Carles Buigas, 29): Aiming for Good Beer
Another popular pub on the lively Carles Buigas strip, the Robin Hood Salou is known for its welcoming atmosphere and entertainment. While catering to a broad tourist audience, it has also been noted for offering a decent selection of beers. This could be a place where, alongside familiar names, you might discover some less common international lagers or even a few craft options, depending on their current stock. It is worth popping in to see what they have on tap or in bottles if you are in the area and fancy something a bit different.
4. Cal KDi Salou (Carrer de Valls, 17): A Local Find for Discerning Drinkers
Tucked away slightly off the main tourist thoroughfares, Cal KDi Salou is a bar and restaurant that has garnered positive mentions for stocking “cervezas de importación y artesanas” (imported and craft beers). This suggests a conscious effort to cater to those with a more adventurous palate. Finding establishments like Cal KDi, which are perhaps more frequented by locals or clued-in visitors, can often lead to discovering a more interesting beer selection. It’s worth seeking out for a potentially more authentic Salou experience with the bonus of some quality brews.
5. La Chupiteria Shots & Craft Beer Salou (Carrer de Montblanc, 6): As the Name Suggests!
The name says it all! La Chupiteria Shots & Craft Beer Salou makes its intentions clear. While “chupiterias” (shot bars) are common in Spanish nightlife areas, one that explicitly includes “Craft Beer” in its name is a beacon for enthusiasts. This is likely to be one of your best bets in Salou for finding a dedicated selection of craft beers, potentially including Spanish craft brews and interesting international options. Expect a lively, youthful atmosphere, but the promise of craft beer makes it a must-visit for anyone on a hops-focused holiday.
Beyond the Bars: Tips and Activities for Craft Beer Lovers
Finding craft beer in Salou is not just about specific bars; it is also about knowing what to look for and how to explore.
6. Seeking out specific Catalan & Spanish Craft Beers
The Spanish craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with Catalunya being one of its most dynamic regions. While Salou might not have its own brewery, keep an eye out for beers from notable Catalan craft breweries such as Espiga (from Sant Llorenç d’Hortons), Garage Beer Co. (Barcelona), La Pirata (Súria), or Cervesa Marina (Blanes). You might also find craft beers from other parts of Spain. Spotting these in a Salou bar or shop is a real treat and a great way to support the national craft movement.
7. Exploring International Craft Beer Styles in Salou Bars
Even if a bar does not explicitly brand itself as “craft,” it might stock a few interesting international styles beyond the usual lagers. Look for IPAs (India Pale Ales) with their characteristic hoppy bitterness, rich Stouts or Porters, refreshing Saisons, or complex Belgian Ales (Dubbels, Tripels, Quads). The presence of these styles on a menu is a good indicator that the bar is catering to a more diverse beer palate.
DISCOVERING SALOU’S EMERGING CRAFT BEER SCENE IS LIKE FINDING A HIDDEN COVE; IT REQUIRES A LITTLE EXPLORATION, BUT THE REWARD IS A REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT TASTE OF YOUR HOLIDAY.
8. Food Pairing with Craft Beer: A Salou Gastronomic Adventure
Why not combine your love for craft beer with Salou’s delicious food? Think about how different beer styles could complement local dishes. A crisp, hoppy IPA could cut through the richness of fried tapas, while a malty amber ale might pair beautifully with grilled meats. A lighter Catalan golden ale could be perfect with seafood. While dedicated craft beer and food pairing restaurants might be scarce, you can create your own experience by selecting interesting beers at a bar that also serves good food, or by enjoying takeaway craft beers with a home-cooked meal or gourmet picnic. For more on local food, you might enjoy our article, “The Local’s Guide to Salou’s Best Bars: Authentic Pubs & Taverns,” as some of these spots might offer simple, tasty fare that pairs well with a good brew.
9. Checking Menus for a “Cerveza Artesana” Section: A Simple Tip
When perusing a drinks menu in Salou, keep an eye out for a dedicated section titled “Cervezas Artesanas” or “Cervezas de Importación/Especiales.” This is the Spanish term for craft beers, and its presence is a clear signal that you are in the right place. Do not be afraid to ask the bar staff for more information if the descriptions are brief.
10. Utilising Beer Apps (Untappd, RateBeer) in Salou: Your Digital Scout
In the modern age of beer exploration, apps like Untappd and RateBeer are invaluable tools. Before you head out, or even while you are on the move, check these apps for recent check-ins and reviews of beers and venues in Salou. Users often share what craft beers are currently available and where, potentially leading you to hidden gems or new arrivals that you might otherwise miss. It is like having a global community of beer scouts in your pocket.
11. Asking Bartenders for Craft Recommendations: Engage and Discover
Do not underestimate the power of a simple conversation. If you are in a bar that seems to have a slightly more interesting beer list, or if the bartender appears knowledgeable, ask them for their craft beer recommendations. They might have some special bottles tucked away that are not on the main menu, or they could point you towards a particularly good local or Spanish craft beer that they stock. This personal interaction can often lead to the most rewarding discoveries.
12. Major Supermarkets for Takeaway Craft Beer: Your At-Home Stash
If you are self-catering or simply want to enjoy some craft beers back at your accommodation, do not overlook Salou’s larger supermarkets. Establishments like Michelangelo or larger Mercadona stores sometimes have a surprisingly decent selection of craft beers, including Spanish and international brands, in their alcohol aisles. This can be a more budget-friendly way to sample different brews and is perfect for a relaxing evening in.
13. Keeping an Eye Out for Seasonal or Guest Craft Beers
The world of craft beer is ever-changing, with breweries constantly producing seasonal specials and limited editions. More progressive bars in Salou that are dipping their toes into craft beer might feature seasonal or guest beers on tap or in bottles. Always check for any specials boards or ask the staff if they have anything new or unusual in stock. This can lead to some exciting and unexpected finds.
Your Hoppy Holiday Awaits
While Salou may be best known for its sunshine and mainstream attractions, the determined craft beer enthusiast can certainly find rewarding sips. The key is to explore beyond the obvious, engage with local staff, and use the tools available to uncover those bars and shops that are making an effort to offer something more diverse. As the appreciation for quality beer continues to grow globally, Salou’s craft beer scene, though perhaps still modest, offers a promising taste of hops and holidays combined. So, venture forth, be curious, and may your Salou adventures be filled with delightful and unexpected brews.
