Sydney's Collection of Beloved Breweries Has Expanded with the Opening of Village Days in Gladesville

Sydney gets a lot of things right. The harbour? Check. Charcoal chicken? Check. Bottomless Brunch? Check. But one thing that sometimes flies under the radar is our world-class collection of breweries. And while Marrickville remains the epicentre of Sydney's brewery scene, new craft tap rooms are popping up all across the city.

One such new addition is Village Days Brewing Co., which opened in Gladesville in late 2023. It's the only brewery currently open in The City of Ryde, bringing a classic spread of craft brews and a breezy brew bar to an area that was once an early trailblazer in Australian brewing.

Founder Dan Smith, Head Brewer Patrick Menschik and the Village Days team are currently churning out a range of 12 beers. Menschik joined the team directly from Germany, where he was trained as a German Brew Master and worked at Weyermann in Bavaria. This German influence can be spotted throughout the varieties Village Days is producing, but there's still a uniquely Australian touch to its range.

The classics are infused with local pride, sporting names like the 2111 Lager and Glades Pale. A few taps down, you'll find some European varieties and funkier creations. Dark beer fans can opt for the oatmeal stout, while those looking for a light, refreshing sip can enjoy a couple of Czech pilsners.

Located just off Victoria Road, the simple open-plan Village Days warehouse taproom invites you to sample your way through the roster alongside a guest tap or two.

"If the pandemic has taught us anything, it's that community — the local 'village' — is more important than ever," says Smith.

"Our taproom provides a welcoming, spacious environment for locals to come together and connect over a few handcrafted brews. We want to deliver a hospitality experience that is more welcoming, community-minded and laidback than your typical large-format pub."

Open Wednesday–Sunday, Village Days is sure to be a hit on weekends over summer — but keep in mind, if you visit on a Wednesday or Thursday afternoon, you can snag yourself a deal. Take $3 off every pint and $2 off every half-serve from 4–6pm on Wednesdays and 3–6pm Thursdays. After-work beers, anyone?

Village Days is located at 484 Victoria Road, Gladesville. It's open from 4-10pm Wednesday, 3-10pm Thursday, 12–10pm Friday–Saturday, and 12–8pm Sunday. Head to the brewery website for more info and to make a booking.