Busan, South Korea’s bustling port city, is quickly becoming a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts. With a diverse and growing number of breweries and taprooms, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or experimental sours, Busan’s craft beer scene has got you covered. Join us as we take a tour of some of the city’s must-visit craft breweries.
Key Takeaways
- Busan offers a diverse range of craft breweries and taprooms, catering to all tastes.
- Galmegi Brewing Co. stands out with multiple taprooms across the city and a variety of signature brews.
- Gorilla Brewing Busan provides a unique beer experience with excellent food pairings and a great ambiance.
- Wildcat Brewing Co. is known for its unique flavors and seasonal offerings in a vibrant taproom setting.
- Abnormal Taphouse and Cantina combines Mexican-inspired brews with delicious dishes, located in the popular Haeundae area.
Galmegi Brewing Co.
Multiple Taprooms Across Busan
Galmegi Brewing Co. is one of Busan’s oldest craft beer bars, having opened in May 2014. They have several locations, including Pusan National University, Seomyeon, Haeundae, and Nampo. Each taproom offers a unique vibe, but all share the same dedication to quality brews and friendly service. It’s a must-visit for any beer lover in Busan!
Signature Brews to Try
At Galmegi Brewing Co., you’ll find a wide selection of house-made brews on tap. Some of their standout options include their stout and IPA, both of which are impeccable. They also feature guest taps and a small but well-curated bottle list. If you’re unsure what to try, tasting flights are available, allowing you to sample a variety of their craft beers.
Events and Specials
Galmegi Brewing Co. frequently hosts events and specials, making each visit unique. From beer tasting events to special promotions, there’s always something happening. Keep an eye out for their Detroit-style pizza, which is available at most of their locations and pairs perfectly with their craft beers.
Our first Galmegi Brewing experience was at Gwangan early one Saturday during the Gwangalli Eobang Festival, and we really enjoyed what was on offer. The staff were very friendly, and the bar area almost has a loft feel.
Gorilla Brewing Busan
A Unique Beer Experience
Gorilla Brewing is a British craft beer brewery based in Busan. They have two locations: one at Haeundae Beach and another at Gwangalli Beach. The Gwangalli Beach taproom is huge, offering around 20 different craft beers on tap. Some of the more unusual craft beers include Popsicle IPA, Imperial Gose tomato, and Hop Bomb DIPA.
Food Pairings
Pair your beer with some delicious food! Gorilla Brewing offers a variety of dishes that go perfectly with their craft beers. Whether you’re into burgers, fries, or something more exotic, there’s something for everyone.
Location and Ambiance
Located just a couple of streets back from Gwangalli Beach, Gorilla Brewing provides stunning views of the beach and the bridge through its expansive open windows. The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot to hang out with friends or meet new people. Don’t miss out on the soju barrel-aged imperial stout if you get the chance!
Wildcat Brewing Co.
Crafting Unique Flavors
Wildcat Brewing Co. is a must-visit spot in Busan’s hipster district, Seomyeon. They offer a variety of unique craft beers, including the Chill Cat Cold IPA (6.5%) and Perfect Paws IPA. Their taproom directly overlooks the brewing vats, which are named after the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and their master, Splinter. How cool is that?
Taproom Vibes
The taproom at Wildcat Brewing Co. is a great place to hang out. You can enjoy your beer in Wildcat Brewing Co. branded glasses, making you feel like one cool cat. The atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends or even a date night. The service is top-notch, with friendly servers and a chill owner.
Seasonal Offerings
Wildcat Brewing Co. also features seasonal offerings that keep things exciting. They often collaborate with other local breweries like Galmegi and Wild Wave, so there’s always something new to try. Don’t miss out on their special events and limited-edition brews.
If you’re looking for a fun and unique brewery experience in Busan, Wildcat Brewing Co. is the place to be. From their creative beer names to their welcoming atmosphere, it’s a spot you won’t want to miss.
Abnormal Taphouse and Cantina
Abnormal Taphouse and Cantina is a fantastic spot to relax after a day of exploring the coast or enjoying a beautiful sunset at the beach. Located just a few yards from the shore, this taproom offers 12 taps and free popcorn. It’s a great place to try craft beers like Magpie Brewing Pale Ale and Hand and Malt Mocha Stout.
Naked Ape Taproom
Naked Ape Taproom is a cool spot at Millac The Market, right by Gwangalli Beach. The place has huge bay windows that give you an awesome view of the ocean and Millak Port. It’s a great place to chill and enjoy the scenery.
They have ten taps of craft beer, including some exclusive ones like Millac Pilsner, Millac IPA, and Millac Double IPA. You can pair your drink with some fries or popcorn. It’s a perfect combo for a relaxing afternoon.
There’s always something happening at Naked Ape. You can listen to musicians and buskers performing in the auditorium right in front of the bar. It’s a fun way to spend your time while enjoying some great beer.
Wild Wave Brew Sour Yeongdo
Sour Beers Galore
Wild Wave Brew Sour Yeongdo is a must-visit for anyone who loves sour beers. Founded in 2015, this brewery specializes in unique and flavorful sour beers. Some of their flagship beers include the Surleim Dry Hopped Sour (5.3% ABV), Sunset Pale Ale, Yuzu Surleim, and Passionade Berliner Weisse. If you’re a fan of sour beers, this place is a paradise.
Brewery Tours
While the main Wild Wave Brewery in Haeundae isn’t open to the public, you can still enjoy a visit to the Sour Yeongdo location. They offer brewery tours that give you a behind-the-scenes look at how their amazing beers are made. It’s a fun and educational experience for beer lovers of all ages.
What to Expect
When you visit Wild Wave Brew Sour Yeongdo, you can expect not only great beers but also delicious food. They serve tasty dishes like Fried Calamari with French Fries, Seaweed Creme Fraiche Beef Tartare, and Burrata Cheese with Seaweed and Cured Salmon Salad. The taproom is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 17:00 – 22:30, so plan your visit accordingly.
Situated on a steep slope in Yeongdo, Busan, right alongside the ocean, this location offers breathtaking views of the Busan Port harbour area. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some fantastic craft beers.
Beer Shop Jeonpo
International and Local Brews
Beer Shop Jeonpo in Seomyeon is one of the best places to enjoy craft beer in Busan. They have a huge selection of craft beers from all over the world, including some that are hard to find in Korea. You can find beers from Craft Bros, Samuel Smiths, Omnipollo, and Toppling Brews, as well as local favorites like Wildcat Brewing and Gorilla Brewing.
Outdoor Seating
The shop has a cool concrete terrace area where you can enjoy your beer outside. It’s a great spot to relax and hang out with friends, especially on a nice day.
Snack Menu Highlights
Beer Shop Jeonpo also offers some tasty snacks to go with your beer. You can munch on pastrami sandwiches, Reuben sandwiches, burgers, and chicken tenders. Yum!
If you’re looking for a place with a great beer selection and a chill vibe, Beer Shop Jeonpo is the spot for you.
Conclusion
Exploring Busan’s craft breweries is like embarking on a flavorful adventure through the city’s vibrant beer scene. From the bustling taprooms of Galmegi Brewing to the unique brews at Wildcat Brewing Co., each stop offers something special. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, Busan’s craft breweries won’t disappoint. So, grab a pint, enjoy the local flavors, and toast to the good times in this dynamic city. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-visit craft breweries in Busan?
Some must-visit craft breweries in Busan include Galmegi Brewing Co., Gorilla Brewing Busan, Wildcat Brewing Co., Abnormal Taphouse and Cantina, Naked Ape Taproom, Wild Wave Brew Sour Yeongdo, and Beer Shop Jeonpo.
Do these breweries offer food options?
Yes, many of these breweries offer food options. For example, Gorilla Brewing Busan is known for its food pairings, and Abnormal Taphouse and Cantina offers must-try dishes with a Mexican twist.
Are there any breweries with beach views?
Yes, Naked Ape Taproom offers stunning views of Gwangalli Beach, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a craft beer with a scenic backdrop.
Can I find international beers at these breweries?
Yes, Beer Shop Jeonpo offers a selection of both international and local brews, giving you a wide variety of options to choose from.
Do any of these breweries host events or live music?
Yes, several breweries host events and live music. For instance, Naked Ape Taproom and Galmegi Brewing Co. frequently have live music and special events.
Are there any breweries specializing in unique or seasonal brews?
Yes, Wildcat Brewing Co. is known for crafting unique flavors and also offers seasonal brews. Wild Wave Brew Sour Yeongdo specializes in sour beers.
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