Beijing's craft beer scene has been rapidly growing, and several breweries have become established parts of the city’s bar scene. Many offer rotating and seasonal specials that source ingredients from throughout China, making them unique treats to try on a visit to the capital. Here are some of the top picks:
Jing-A Brewing Co. & Brewpub (京A)
Jing- A is a pioneer in Beijing's craft beer scene, known for innovative brews that incorporate local ingredients such as red rice koji and ginger. Since 2012, they have been seeking out rare flavors that push the envelope.
They collaborate with brewers around the world to constantly find new techniques and ideas. In addition, they have an extensive food menu with a little bit of everything.
Recommended: Mandarin Wheat, Beijing Bikini, Hawthorn Smash, & Flying Fist IPA
Longfusi Taproom, No.38 Qianliang Hutong, Dongcheng District
Tang House, No. 15 Gebudian Liyuan District, Tongzhou
Sanyuanqiao Taproom, S05 Instreet, Phoenix Galleria, Sanyuanqiao, Chaoyang
CBD Taproom, Kerry Center, No.1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang
Xingfucun Brewpub, No.57 Xingfucun Zhong Lu, Chaoyang
Great Leap Brewing
Founded in 2010, it is one of Beijing's first craft breweries. Great Leap is now known for its creative beers and collaborations. It became popular for using local ingredients like Sichuan peppercorns and Chinese teas; Great Leap has a huge selection of brews to choose from. They also offer great burgers for a hearty meal to wash down with cold beers.
Recommended: Honey Ma Gold, Banana Wheat, & Little General IPA
Great Leap Brewing #45, No.45-1 Xinyuan Street, Chaoyang
Great Leap Brewing #6, No.6 Doujiao Hutong, Di'anmenwai Dajie, Dongcheng
Slow Boat Brewery
Launched in 2011, Slow Boat is renowned for their innovative brews and vibrant taproom culture. It has become one of China's biggest craft brewers by production capacity, as well as one of the most popular brewpubs in Beijing. They also serve up delicious food including their award-winning burgers.
Recommended: Monkey's Fist IPA, Drink Like a Fish Pilsner, & Moon Jelly IPA
Slowboat Shichahai Taproom, Bldg 2, No. 51 Di'anmen Dajie, Xicheng
Slowboat Sanlitun, No.6 Nansanlitun Lu, Chaoyang
Slowboat Maizidian, No.78 Maizidian Jie, Chaoyang
Arrow Factory Brewing
Arrow Factory offers a wide range of naturally brewed beers, including English-style bitters. They have progressed from a hutong brewery to making thousands of liters of their beloved beers. Arrow Factory opened its first pub at Liang Ma River, serving up British pub classics alongside their libations.
Recommended: Pilgrim's Progress Amber Ale, Rrrrrrraspberry Sour, & Seeing Double IPA
Arrow Factory Pub, No.1 Xindong Lu, Chaoyang
Beersmith
This modern gastropub in Guomao’s CBD, serves up to 16 specialty and seasonal beers. Tuck into a menu of hearty western pub food with live music in the evenings.
Recommended: Extra Dollop Oat Double Cream IPA & Hopsession Hazy Pale Ale
Beersmith, L1 JEN Beijing, No.1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang
U!Bro
U!Bro is one of the most successful Chinese owned craft beer companies. They have expanded across China and have a rotating selection of over 60 beers. They sell more than 100 million bottles a year.
Most of their shops function more as delivery hubs and you can order their brews online or stop by a storefront for a quick pint.
Recommended: Watermecool, Ginger Chocolate Stout, & 60 Nautical Miles
The Factory
Although The Factory does not brew themselves, they are the sole venue for Oak & Iron Brewing, a brewery that specializes in English style and also offers up a range of experimental beers. The bar offers 19 draught beer options, including the mainland’s only cask beer system, and two beers on Nitro tap.
You can pair your beer with classic English food such as British pies, kebabs, and fish and chips. On the second floor, the hidden cocktail bar The Black Hole offers something for non-beer drinkers.
Recommended: Peanut Butter Jelly Sour, Builder’s Brew & Chinness
The Factory, No.135 Gulou Dong Dajie, Dongcheng
Tips for Exploring Beijing's Craft Beer Scene:
Visit the Brewpubs: Many breweries have taprooms where you can sample their beers fresh from the source.
Explore the Hutongs: Some of the best breweries are tucked away in Beijing's traditional alleyways.
Check for Seasonal Brews: Many breweries offer rotating and seasonal specials.
Look for Local Ingredients: Chinese craft beers often incorporate unique local ingredients
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