If you're planning a visit to Zagreb and have a penchant for craft beer, you're in for a treat. The city's craft beer scene is booming, with a variety of spots that cater to both casual drinkers and dedicated enthusiasts. Envision sipping innovative brews at The Garden Brewery or enjoying a cozy evening at Craft Room. Each location offers its own unique vibe and selection, promising something for every palate. Curious about where to start your beer journey in Zagreb? Let's investigate these top 12 venues that shouldn't be missed.
The Garden Brewery
The Garden Brewery in Zagreb stands out as a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts.
Housed in a repurposed warehouse, it exudes an industrial-chic vibe that's both trendy and welcoming. This brewery is a key player in Zagreb's bustling craft beer scene, offering an impressive array of on-tap beers.
Visitors can savor seasonal and limited-edition brews that showcase the creativity and innovation of local brewers.
Although finding the limited patio space can be a bit tricky, it's worth the effort. The Garden Brewery is a beloved haunt for local craft beer fans.
Its unique setting and dedication to quality make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Zagreb's craft beer offerings. Tasting their exceptional beer selection is a highlight for any craft beer lover in the city.
Medvedgrad Brewery
Medvedgrad Brewery, the oldest and largest craft brewery in Zagreb, has been delighting beer lovers since 1994 with a wide array of traditional and seasonal brews.
Leading the Croatian craft beer movement, Medvedgrad crafts beers that honor both classic and innovative styles. Their beer menu is extensive, featuring year-round favorites and limited-edition offerings, so there's always something new to explore.
Step into their taprooms, and you'll find a welcoming, industrial-chic vibe, perfect for diving into the art of craft brewing. Medvedgrad's dedication to sustainable practices and quality craftsmanship has earned them a top spot among regional breweries.
Zmajska Pivovara
Founded in 2013 by former programmer Andrej Čapka, Zmajska Pivovara has earned a reputation for its innovative and experimental approach to craft beer. Nestled in Zagreb, this family-owned brewery produces five distinctive year-round beers and introduces 14 fresh creations each year. Their unique brews have quickly become a hit among craft beer lovers.
As one of Croatia's largest craft breweries, Zmajska Pivovara offers a wide array of traditional and seasonal beers. Their dedication to quality and creativity has garnered numerous medals in home brewing competitions.
| Year Founded | Year-Round Beers | New Beers Annually |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 5 | 14 |
Looking for an exceptional craft beer experience? Zmajska Pivovara won't let you down.
Pulfer Brewery
Pulfer Brewery stands as a cornerstone in Zagreb's craft beer scene. Founded in 2013 by former programmer Andrej Čapka, this family-run establishment started as a home brewing project.
It quickly garnered attention by winning medals in home brewing competitions. Today, Pulfer is recognized as one of Croatia's pioneering local craft breweries.
Pulfer Brewery offers five year-round beer styles and introduces 14 new beers annually, showcasing a rich variety of flavors. Their sour beer selections are particularly noteworthy, perfect for those who crave unique and bold tastes.
With its own brewing facility, Pulfer continues to innovate, significantly contributing to Zagreb's dynamic craft beer culture. This makes Pulfer Brewery a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast seeking to explore diverse and exciting brews.
Craft Room
Craft Room, located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, is a haven for craft beer lovers. With a variety of local and international brews on tap, it promises a delightful experience for anyone passionate about craft beer. The pub keeps its draught list fresh and exciting, regularly updating it on their Facebook page.
While enjoying a pint, treat yourself to their American-style pub food. Pulled pork sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks are crowd favorites and pair perfectly with the beers on offer.
The quirky decor, featuring a stuffed deer head with eight arms guarding the taps, adds a unique charm to the place. The atmosphere at Craft Room is relaxed and social, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors.
Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking for a great place to hang out, Craft Room offers a warm welcome and a memorable experience.
Tolkien's House
Take a short stroll from Craft Room and you'll find Tolkien's House, a haven for craft beer lovers in Zagreb.
With an expansive beer menu that showcases both European and Croatian brews, this spot is perfect for your next craft beer adventure. The selection spans multiple pages, offering a chance to sample some of the finest beers around.
The outdoor patio at Tolkien's House is a great place to enjoy your drink in a smoke-free environment.
Run by the local craft brewery Pivovara Medvedgrad, this place serves beers that highlight the rich flavors of Croatian craft brews. Located in the Upper Town area, it's ideal for exploring Zagreb's vibrant craft beer scene.
Make sure to try a flight of locally-made Croatian craft beers. It's a fantastic way to explore different flavors without committing to just one.
Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious, Tolkien's House offers a welcoming atmosphere and an impressive selection. Cheers to your next beer adventure in Zagreb!
Mali Medo
Mali Medo, part of the Medvedgrad Brewery group, invites you to savor their craft beer selection in a cozy pub setting. Nestled in Zagreb's charming Upper Town, Mali Medo boasts a spacious outdoor patio along a pedestrian-only street, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink. With a variety of beers on tap, their Balthazar Hoppy Lager and Fakin IPA are must-tries. Pair your drinks with classic pub fare like sausages, baked beans, and minced meat fingers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper Town, Zagreb |
| Outdoor Patio | Large, pedestrian-only street |
| Signature Beers | Balthazar Hoppy Lager, Fakin IPA |
| Pub Fare | Sausages, baked beans, minced meat fingers |
| Atmosphere | Lively, social |
Enjoy a flight of locally produced Croatian craft beers in a lively atmosphere!
Hop In Craft Beer Bar
Nestled in a peaceful city block, Hop In Craft Beer Bar boasts a diverse selection of local and regional craft beers, perfect for those who want a break from Mali Medo. This cozy spot offers an intimate setting to savor your drink, focusing on quality brews that attract craft beer aficionados.
The charm of Hop In is undeniable, though you might encounter some service hiccups. Speaking Croatian could smooth things over with the staff.
Occasionally, reviews mention slow service or less-than-friendly bartenders. But don't let that deter you. The high ratings and excellent beer selection make it a worthwhile stop.
For a laid-back craft beer experience in Zagreb, Hop In is definitely a solid choice.
Swanky Monkey Garden
Swanky Monkey Garden, located in Zagreb's historic Upper Town, offers a lush outdoor setting perfect for enjoying a cold craft beer.
It's a fantastic spot to explore a variety of beer options, with a wide selection of local and regional craft brews on tap, including seasonal offerings. The cozy atmosphere, enhanced by string lights and greenery, makes it an inviting venue for beer lovers.
The food menu, featuring grilled meats, burgers, and shareable plates, pairs perfectly with the beer selection. Regular live music performances and events add to the vibrant social scene, making every visit an experience to remember.
Swanky Monkey Garden truly stands out as a must-visit destination for a memorable craft beer outing in Zagreb.
Pivnica Medvedgrad
Nestled in the heart of Zagreb, Pivnica Medvedgrad delivers an authentic craft beer experience, proudly backed by the renowned Medvedgrad brewery. The newly opened pub boasts a spacious back terrace with a unique 'treehouse' vibe, making it an ideal spot to chill with a good friend. The beer selection is diverse, offering various styles like porters, IPAs, dark beers, and lagers.
| Beer Style | Description | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Porters | Rich, dark, and robust flavor | High |
| IPAs | Hoppy and aromatic | Moderate |
| Dark Beers | Deep and malty | Moderate |
Adding a fun twist to your visit, the pub features a unique beer pricing promotion where prices fluctuate based on demand. This dynamic pricing system ensures an exciting experience each time you drop by.
Beertija
Beertija, a craft beer bar near Zagreb's main bus station, stands out for its impressive selection of local and regional brews. Inside, you'll find 20 rotating taps featuring a mix of local favorites and regional specialties. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with exposed brick walls and rustic wooden furnishings adding to the charm.
The staff at Beertija are knowledgeable and eager to help you navigate their diverse beer menu. Whether you're in the mood for a well-crafted pale ale or something more adventurous, they'll ensure you find the perfect brew.
Pair your drink with delicious small plates such as charcuterie boards or artisanal sandwiches, making for a delightful experience.
Beertija is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast exploring Zagreb. The combination of excellent beer, a welcoming atmosphere, and tasty food creates an unforgettable experience. So, next time you're near the main bus station, stop by and enjoy a truly unique craft beer adventure.
Varionica Brewery
Varionica Brewery, established in 2010, is one of Zagreb's trailblazers in craft beer. Just a short walk from Zagreb's main bus station, Varionica offers a modern, industrial-chic taproom where you can explore their diverse beer range.
From barrel-aged to sour varieties, there's something for every beer enthusiast. Collaborations with both local and international brewers have led to unique blends and limited releases, setting Varionica apart in the craft beer world.
Their innovative approach has earned them multiple awards at prestigious beer competitions, cementing their reputation in Croatia's craft beer scene. If you're after a cutting-edge beer experience, Varionica is a must-visit.
The blend of traditional techniques and experimental styles ensures you'll find something new and exciting with every visit.
