Award-Winning Brewery Kaiju Is Opening Its First Brewpub in Huntingdale Next Week

Melbourne's inner north might be repping its fair share of the local craft beer scene, but it's not where you'll find the city's newest brewpub. That, my friends, has made its home a few kilometres southeast in the unlikely suburb of Huntingdale. Much-loved brewery and cider producer Kaiju has moved into the 'hood, set to open its own brewpub next week.

After close to a decade crafting popular, award-winning drops, Nat and Callum Reeves' brewery will finally open to the public, unveiling its new beer hall and pizzeria Kaiju Cantina on Wednesday, February 9.

The lofty 445-square-metre warehouse space is rocking a fun fitout by We are Humble Architects, filled with bright pops of colour and featuring large-scale hand-painted murals by Mikey Burton — the same US-based artist responsible for much of Kaiju's distinctive can art. It includes a playful, 12-metre work depicting the Melbourne city skyline complete with landmarks like the MCG and St Kilda Beach.

Kaiju Cantina's 16 taps will be pouring house favourites like the Kaiju Krush tropical pale ale and Aftermath double IPA, alongside limited-edition and small-batch brews crafted on the site's own dedicated six-hectolitre brewing setup. Keep an eye out also for regular collaboration pours done with local emerging brew stars and brewing students, as Kaiju looks to share use of its equipment on days when it's not brewing its own creations.

A locally-focused lineup of booze-free options, wine and spirits will also be on offer, including pours from the likes of Seaford's That Spirited Lot Gin and The Gospel Whiskey out of Brunswick.

Kim Jane Photography

Meanwhile, the food menu is all about beer's true BFF, pizza. Expect seasonal ingredients, hand-stretched bases and plenty of classic Italian flavours — think, a vegetarian combination of mushrooms, parmesan and truffle oil; a classic capricciosa number topped with artichokes and olives; and even a cheeseburger-inspired creation featuring American-style cheese, beef, pickles and mustard.

Snacks might include the likes of a garlic, rosemary and balsamic focaccia, while the pizza oven's got dessert sorted with sweet options like a Nutella and strawberry calzone.

Find Kaiju Cantina at 27 Hume Street, Huntingdale, from February 9. It'll open from 4pm–late Wednesday and Thursday, and 11am–late Friday–Sunday.

Images: Kim Jane Photography