Overview
There once was a time when our Esky's only knew the beers of Fourex, Tooheys and the token import, Corona. Times have changed and these days beer-drinkers Australia-wide are swapping their in-and-out six pack (carton) for lengthy conversation with the bottle shop's resident beer connoisseur on the brewing process for the latest boutiqe beer on the shelf. Beer enthusiasts have turned casual beer-drinking into a full-blown hobby, seeking out new and unique craft beers to try and discuss. Brisbane bars and pubs have well and truly embraced this new found tradition. If you are wanting to turn your beer-drinking into an artform, then look no further than Concrete Playground's list of the five best craft beer spots in Brisbane.
The Scratch
Park Road in Milton has traditionally been known for its large Italian food presence. The Scratch however is focused solely on beer. Craft beer. With four taps and one hand pump, the guys at The Scratch change these on a daily basis keeping everyone on their toes. Aware that not everybody is a beer-spert they welcome newbies into their home with open arms, eager to explain what's on tap, where it's from and how it has been made. It is a totally relaxed vibe and you'll often find a group huddled around one of the many boardgames they have on offer. There is no kitchen but peanuts in the shell are on offer, otherwise you can BYOF.
8/1 Park Road, Milton; 07 3107 9910; www.scratchbar.com
Tippler's Tap
Amongst the thriving suburb of Newstead sits Tippler's Tap, a dreamy watering hole dedicated to top quality craft beers and delicious food to go with it. The fit-out is reminiscent of a mountain cabin with timber finishings and images of nature on the walls, giving the place a homely feel - it would be hard for the locals to stay away. The expert bar staff can take you through the ten-tap offering as well as what's being served off the hand pump and the extensive list of bottled beers. Food off of the Chicago-influenced menu will accompany your beers to perfection. Think sliders, chili and buffalo wings.
22 Masters St, Newstead; 07 3122 9886; www.tipplerstap.com.au
Yard Bird Ale House
We know we have mentioned Yard Bird before, but it would be remiss of us not to put it into our top five seeing as they have Sunday Crafternoon's dedicated to their love of craft beer. With a constantly changing supply of boutique beers in the fridge and on tap, Yard Bird has the much loved combination of top shelf beers matched with top shelf food. Their pizzas, burgers and wings never disappoint. Neither do the television screens which are generally displaying gratuitously violent or sexual movies.
6/24 Martin St, Fortitude Valley; 07 3852 6413; www.facebook.com/YardbirdAleHouse
Archive
Unlike the majority of boutique beer specialists in Brisbane that are intimate in both feel and size, Archive wins when it comes to size. The regular pub section is big enough for a dance floor (which regularly rocks thanks to the great tunes of the acoustic performers who play there) but also has the Next Door Cellar that hosts a huge amount of domestic and international boutique beers. The barstaff are very well-educated in this area and are always willing to let you try before you buy (after all some of these pints will set you back a pretty penny). You can get solid pub food at Archive and if you go mid-week can enjoy the night time activities hosted such as bingo and trivia.
100 Boundary Street, West End; 07 3844 3419; www.archivebeerboutique.com.au
The Villager
Up the George Street end of the CBD sits The Villager, a gastrobar known for its top quality drinks and food. This is the perfect place to let your hair down for a long lunch or after work. There is an extensive offering of domestic craft beers in the fridge as well as local favourites and guest beers on tap. All of the Gastrobar Classics (think really good burgers, fish and chips, pies) have accompanying beer suggestions, making your visit that little easier and more satisfying. You can also enjoy a three-course meal here and there's no doubt that the resident beer experts will happily recommend a beer with every dish...if you wish.
185 George Street, Brisbane; 07 3211 1300; www.thevillager.com.au