When you're in Zagreb and seeking a quality craft beer experience, you'll find an array of spots that cater to every beer lover's palate. From the industrial chic of The Garden Brewery to the historic ambiance of Ožujsko Pub, each location offers something unique. You might want to uncover Zmajska Pivovara's renowned stouts or perhaps the innovative brews at Varionica Brewery. There's a different story behind each pint, and unearthing these tales could make your visit even more rewarding. Curious about where to begin your craft beer journey in Zagreb? Let's investigate the top 12 spots together.
The Garden Brewery
The Garden Brewery stands out as a top destination for craft beer lovers in Zagreb. Located in a repurposed industrial setting, this brewery offers a unique experience with a wide range of homebrewed beers.
You'll find an impressive selection on tap, including IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal offerings. The sprawling outdoor patio creates a lively atmosphere, perfect for sampling these exceptional brews.
Getting there might be a bit tricky due to fencing and entry issues, but the effort is well worth it. The Garden Brewery promises a memorable experience for anyone exploring Zagreb's craft beer scene.
Despite occasional challenges with entry and service, it's a must-visit spot.
Medvedgrad Brewery
Medvedgrad Brewery, founded in 1994, stands as Zagreb's oldest and largest craft brewery. It offers a rich selection of both traditional and seasonal beers.
With over 20 varieties, including fan-favorites like Fakin IPA and Balthazar Hoppy Lager, there's a brew to satisfy every taste bud.
Explore these unique beers at their various taprooms and pubs, such as Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica and Pivnica Mali Medo.
Medvedgrad is also known for collaborating with local and regional breweries to produce exclusive and limited-edition beers. These efforts have earned them numerous awards, making them a key player in Croatia's booming beer scene.
Experience a perfect blend of tradition and innovation at Medvedgrad Brewery, where every sip tells a story.
Zmajska Pivovara
Zmajska Pivovara has been a cornerstone in Zagreb's craft beer scene since its inception in 2013. Founded by former programmer Andrej Čapka, this family-owned brewery has attracted beer enthusiasts with its innovative and award-winning brews.
Offering five year-round beer styles and introducing 14 new beers annually, Zmajska Pivovara presents a diverse selection of ales, lagers, and seasonal specials. Each brew is crafted with a focus on creativity and quality, ensuring a unique experience with every sip.
The brewery's modern, industrial-chic tasting room and tap house add to the overall experience, making it a top destination for both locals and visitors.
Zmajska Pivovara has significantly contributed to the rise of the craft beer movement in Croatia, establishing itself as a must-visit for any beer aficionado.
Pulfer Brewery
Pulfer Brewery burst onto Zagreb's craft beer scene in 2013, starting as a humble home brewing project. Today, it's a full-scale production powerhouse, known for its dedication to traditional brewing methods. Pulfer's beers have won awards, and for good reason—they're crafted with precision and care.
In their lineup, you'll find three permanent styles: lagers, ales, and porters. Each beer is a testament to Pulfer's commitment to quality.
| Beer Style | Description | ABV |
|---|---|---|
| Lager | Crisp and refreshing | 5.0% |
| Ale | Smooth and balanced | 5.5% |
| Porter | Rich and robust | 6.0% |
Pulfer Brewery stands out as a pioneer in Croatia's craft beer movement. By setting high standards, they've paved the way for others in the industry. Their approach combines tradition with a touch of creativity, making Pulfer a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. So, if you're in Zagreb, swing by and taste the spirit of local craft brewing at its finest.
Varionica Brewery
Varionica Brewery stands out as a vibrant destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Zagreb. With its extensive beer menu, you'll find a range of unique and experimental styles that showcase the brewers' creativity.
The cozy, industrial-style taproom offers a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying a pint with friends or meeting new ones.
The flagship beers, like the aromatic Varionica IPA and the rich Varionica Stout, are crowd-pleasers. Seasonal and limited-edition brews keep the experience fresh and exciting.
Events and live music add to the brewery's energetic vibe, making each visit memorable.
Pair your beer with delicious Croatian cuisine from local food vendors collaborating with Varionica. This combination of great beer and tasty food captures the essence of Zagreb's craft beer scene.
If you're a beer lover, Varionica Brewery is a must-visit spot in the city.
Ožujsko Pub
Ožujsko Pub, established in 1894, promises an authentic Croatian craft beer experience in the heart of the historic Upper Town. This iconic spot brims with traditional Croatian charm, making it a beloved hangout for both locals and visitors.
With over 20 craft beers on tap, including seasonal and limited releases from local breweries, there's always something new to try. The knowledgeable staff here are more than just servers; they're beer enthusiasts ready to guide you through the extensive menu.
Need a recommendation? They'll pair you up with the perfect brew and share fascinating details about each one. Their passion makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Imagine sipping a finely crafted beer while soaking in the rich history of Zagreb's Upper Town. Ožujsko Pub isn't just about the drinks; it's about the atmosphere. The historic setting adds a layer of depth to your visit, making each sip a journey through Croatian culture.
For anyone serious about craft beer, missing out on Ožujsko Pub would be a mistake. The combination of an extensive beer selection and a historic ambiance makes it a must-visit destination in Zagreb.
Craft Room
After visiting Ožujsko Pub, make your way to Craft Room for an exciting array of local and international craft beers.
Nestled in Zagreb's Upper Town, this spot offers a draught list that features everything from a hoppy lager to a refreshing sour beer. The pub's unique decor, including a stuffed deer head with eight arms guarding the taps, adds to the lively ambiance.
Check out their Facebook page to see the current beers on tap, and indulge in American-style pub food like pulled pork sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks.
With its extensive selection and quality, Craft Room is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast looking for variety and a vibrant social scene.
Tolkien's House
Tolkien's House, nestled in Zagreb's historic Upper Town, boasts an extensive beer menu that spans multiple pages. Whether you're a fan of European brews or curious about Croatian craft beers, this bar has something for everyone. Operated by local craft beer maker Pivovara Medvedgrad, Tolkien's House is famous for its blend of local Croatian craft beers and popular European varieties.
The outdoor patio provides a smoke-free environment, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy your drink.
Thanks to its prime location and diverse beer selection, Tolkien's House offers a fantastic opportunity to explore both international and local brewing talents.
If you're seeking the best beer in Zagreb, make sure to include this bar on your list. With its rich assortment of beers and inviting atmosphere, it's a must-visit for any beer enthusiast.
Plac Kitchen & Grill
Treat yourself to some delicious comfort food at Plac Kitchen & Grill while sampling a few craft beers. Conveniently located near Zagreb's main bus station, this spot is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring the city. Plac Kitchen & Grill is well-known for its mouthwatering hamburgers and kebabs, offering a fancy meal option for under $20 CAD.
While the emphasis here is on wine, there's also a fine selection of Belgian beers and local Croatian craft brews. Expect to find porters, IPAs, dark beers, and lagers, although sour beers are off the menu. This is a great chance to dive into Zagreb's craft beer scene, and maybe even practice some Croatian with the friendly staff.
Mali Medo
Nestled in Zagreb's Upper Town, Pivnica Mali Medo is a magnet for both locals and tourists. The inviting patio offers a front-row seat to the lively pedestrian street, making it the perfect spot to sample Croatian craft beers.
The cozy interior, despite its small size, exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Operated by Pivovara Medvedgrad brewery, Mali Medo serves up classic pub dishes like sausages, baked beans, and minced meat fingers. These hearty meals pair perfectly with their craft beers.
Make sure to try the Balthazar Hoppy Lager and Fakin IPA—two standout brews that showcase the best of Croatian craft beer. Mali Medo offers an authentic taste of Croatia's burgeoning craft beer scene.
Hop In Craft Beer Bar
Nestled in the heart of Zagreb, Hop In Craft Beer Bar boasts a wide selection of local and regional craft beers. Just a short walk from the main bus station, it's the ideal spot for meeting a friend or enjoying some solo time.
The bar's simple, inviting ambiance creates a relaxing space to savor a pale ale or any other craft beer. While some patrons have reported occasional rude service, most visitors highly recommend Hop In.
They appreciate the reasonable prices and the diverse beer options. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just a casual drinker, Hop In is definitely worth a visit. The cozy atmosphere overlooking a small park adds to its charm, making it a must-visit in Zagreb.
Swanky Monkey Garden
Swanky Monkey Garden's vibrant beer garden in Zagreb's Lower Town invites you to discover its extensive craft beer selection and lively atmosphere. Just a short walk from Zagreb's main bus station, this spot offers a fun escape with its 24 rotating taps featuring local and regional brews. The casual vibe and ample seating make it a perfect place to unwind.
The location is incredibly convenient, situated near Zagreb's main bus station in Lower Town. This makes it an ideal stop whether you're a local or just passing through.
The 24 rotating taps present a variety of local and regional beers, ensuring there's always something new to try.
The atmosphere at Swanky Monkey Garden is lively and social, perfect for meeting friends or making new ones. The casual setting and ample seating make it easy to relax and have a good time. Beyond the impressive beer selection, they serve delicious pub-style food, making it a great spot for both drinks and a bite to eat.
If you're feeling adventurous, order a beer flight to sample a variety of flavors. It's a great way to explore new beers and find your favorites. Pair your beer flight with some tasty pub food for the full experience.
