Craft beer revolution has taken over the Polish capital by storm, resulting in dozens of microbreweries competing to create the most unique flavour combinations. From hoppy IPA’s and floral saisons to sweet, dark Baltic Porters, even the harshest critics can find something to their liking. Here’s our guide to the best craft beer bars, or as the locals call them “multi-tap” bars due to the multitude of draft options. Na zdrowie!
The mother of all “multi-tap” bars in Warsaw, Gorączka Złota is the go-to for all beer lovers who don’t care much about hipster decor. With beer mats covering every inch of the walls, the place has a truly unique, more “dive-y” vibe. Not to mentioned that the friendly owners know everything there is about Polish indie breweries, so don’t hesitate to ask them for recommendations.
Located in the strict city center, Kufle i Kapsle (Beer Mugs and Bottlecaps) is definitely not for those who like to stick to their one, favourite option. With 16 rotating taps and over 150 bottled beers to choose from, customers have to let go and experiment. But don’t worry, well-informed bartenders are always there to guide you on your beer-tasting journey.
Four pumps, 57 taps, 200 types of bottled beer, open 24/7: what more can we say? Piw Paw is the beer lover’s dream come true. The only down-side is that the place has just a handful of tables and gets pretty packed during the evenings, but on the plus side the beer can be ordered as a takeout. Or you can head to the other two locations: Foksal 16 and Mazowiecka 9.
With its exposed bricks and monochrome décor, Jabeerwocky offers a sleek, urban aesthetic, while its 16 taps offer the best selection of Polish and European crafts. It is also one of the few bars on the list that can fit large groups, so invite your friends and party the night away.
Housed in the former communist party HQ and located right next to the city’s famous palm tree and General De Gaulle statue, Cuda na Kiju is one of the leaders in the craft beer mania. With the name translating as “miracles on tap,” customers should expect nothing less to pour from the 16 taps. Glass walls and minimalist decor make the place look airy and cosy. During the hot summer nights, take advantage of the outdoor space and observe people as the head to the city center to have some fun.
All those still unconvinced that the Warsaw craft beer scene is on the world level, how about when we tell you that Brewdog, the award-winning Scottish brewery, opened its first Eastern European location in the Polish capital? Its 18 taps pour the company’s staples as well as guest beers from local breweries. They come with a slightly higher price tag, but the perfect pint and a funky, yet stylish decor are definitely worth the couple extra zlotys.
Born out of true love for Belgian beers, Elephant offers 250 beers, with 22 of them on tap. Each type is served in the appropriate glass, making for a truly authentic experience. The owners know everything about the selection they offer, so don’t hesitate to pick their brain about the art of Belgian brewing.
Located in the shadow cast by the Barbican in Old Town, Same Krafty works mainly with Polish breweries which means that customers can get a tasty crash course on the local craft scene. Pro tip: when setting up a meeting with friends, make sure to specify which bar you have in mind, as there are two locations, separated just by an alleyway.
If you are into dive bars, probably head somewhere else. With vibrant colours and light decor, Artezan brewery’s flagship pub feels more like a hip brunch place than a beer hall, but order a pint and you won’t question the bartenders’ competence again. Established in 2012, Artezan is one of the leading Polish indie breweries and the bar serves their bestsellers as well as a few debuts.