Novosibirsk is a dynamic city known for its rich culture and thriving food and drink scene. Whether you’re a fan of craft beer or interested in tasting Russia’s iconic vodka, Novosibirsk offers plenty of great spots to enjoy these beverages. From trendy craft beer pubs to places offering premium vodka tasting experiences, here’s a guide to the best places in Novosibirsk for craft beer and vodka tasting.
1. Craft Beer at “Sibirskaya Corona” Brewery
Sibirskaya Corona is one of the top places in Novosibirsk for craft beer lovers. Known for its wide selection of beers and commitment to high-quality brewing, it offers a range of local craft beers brewed on-site. The brewery is popular with locals and tourists alike, and it’s a great place to dive into the world of Russian craft beer.
What to Expect:
- Variety of Craft Beers: From pale ales to IPAs and dark stouts, Sibirskaya Corona offers a range of beers brewed with locally sourced ingredients. Each beer has its unique character, providing a fresh take on classic styles.
- Beer Tastings: Sibirskaya Corona offers beer tasting sessions where you can sample a variety of their craft beers. These sessions are guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the nuances of each beer, making it a great experience for beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
- Modern Brewery Vibe: The brewery features a cozy and welcoming environment, with a modern, industrial-style decor. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a freshly brewed beer with friends.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Sibirskaya Corona is the place to be. With its wide selection of high-quality beers, friendly atmosphere, and informative tastings, it’s an ideal location to explore local craft brewing in Novosibirsk.
2. Beer House “Kolbasoff”
For an excellent mix of craft beer and local snacks, Kolbasoff is a popular spot in Novosibirsk. This beer house is known for its cozy ambiance, a broad range of beer styles, and a menu full of Russian and European snacks perfect for pairing with your favorite beer.
What to Expect:
- Beer Selection: The venue offers a wide selection of local Russian craft beers alongside international options, featuring everything from light lagers to rich Belgian-style ales.
- Local and International Brews: In addition to their local craft beers, you’ll also find beers from breweries across Europe, giving you the option to compare and contrast flavors from different beer cultures.
- Beer Pairings: Kolbasoff serves delicious Russian sausages, cheeses, and other beer-friendly foods, making it a great spot to indulge in a complete tasting experience.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re looking for a relaxed setting where you can try local and international craft beers and enjoy hearty food, Kolbasoff provides a great atmosphere and a vast selection of beers to explore.
3. The Beer Market Pub
If you love trying different varieties of craft beer, the Beer Market Pub is an excellent spot. Located in the city center, this pub features a wide array of craft beers from both local Russian and international breweries.
What to Expect:
- Beer Tasting: The Beer Market Pub offers beer tasting boards, allowing you to sample several different types of craft beers in one sitting. You can taste beers from local breweries and international selections in one place.
- Innovative Beers: The pub frequently features seasonal beers and experimental brews, giving you a chance to taste unique flavors.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: With its lively, modern atmosphere and friendly crowd, the Beer Market Pub is the perfect place to hang out with friends while exploring new flavors.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you love beer variety and want to explore both local and international craft beers, Beer Market Pub offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for beer enthusiasts who like trying new brews.
4. Vodka Tasting at “Russian Vodka Museum”
No visit to Novosibirsk would be complete without a deep dive into Russia’s iconic vodka culture. The Russian Vodka Museum is dedicated to the country’s rich history of vodka production, and it’s an excellent place to sample high-quality vodkas and learn about their cultural significance.
What to Expect:
- Vodka Tasting Experience: The museum offers guided vodka tastings, where visitors can sample a selection of premium Russian vodkas. These tastings are paired with traditional Russian snacks, such as pickles, caviar, and rye bread.
- Historical Insights: Along with the tasting, you’ll learn about the history of vodka in Russia, from its origins to its cultural importance. The museum’s displays include vintage bottles, historical artifacts, and exhibits about the evolution of vodka production techniques.
- Local Vodka: During the tasting, you’ll get the chance to try local Siberian vodkas, which are crafted using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
For those interested in learning about Russian vodka, the Russian Vodka Museum provides an authentic, educational, and flavorful experience. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Russian culture and taste some of the best vodkas the country has to offer.
5. Vodka Tasting at “GlavPivTrade”
Another great place for vodka tasting is GlavPivTrade, which offers a sophisticated environment for sampling premium vodka and exploring the diverse flavors of this iconic Russian drink. It’s a stylish spot in the city that focuses on both vodka and craft beer.
What to Expect:
- Premium Vodkas: GlavPivTrade serves a curated selection of premium Russian vodkas, including rare and top-tier options. You can enjoy tasting various vodka brands and learn about their distinct qualities.
- Vodka and Food Pairing: Like the Russian Vodka Museum, this location offers vodka pairing sessions where you can enjoy your drink with traditional Russian appetizers.
- Unique Vodka Flavors: In addition to traditional vodka, the venue offers infused vodkas, made with flavors like honey, chili, and herbs, providing a modern twist on the classic drink.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
For those who want to enjoy a modern vodka tasting experience, GlavPivTrade offers a combination of premium vodkas and unique pairings, making it a perfect place for vodka lovers who want to explore different flavors and brands.
6. Craft Beer and Vodka at “Vasileostrovskaya” Pub
For those who are looking to explore both craft beer and vodka in one place, Vasileostrovskaya Pub offers the best of both worlds. This pub combines the enjoyment of local craft beers and premium vodkas in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- Wide Selection of Craft Beers: The pub features a great selection of craft beers, ranging from light lagers to bold IPAs, as well as Russian and international brews.
- Vodka Bar: The vodka section of the pub allows you to sample premium vodkas from various parts of Russia, with a focus on Siberian brands.
- Tasting Menus: Vasileostrovskaya Pub offers tasting menus that combine vodka with beer and Russian snacks, making it an exciting spot for those who want to try both drinks in one sitting.
Why It’s Perfect for You:
If you’re looking to try both craft beer and vodka in a lively, casual setting, Vasileostrovskaya Pub provides a great variety of both beverages, along with Russian snacks, making it an ideal spot for a fun and flavorful night out.
Conclusion
Novosibirsk offers a variety of fantastic places to enjoy craft beer and vodka tasting, each offering a unique experience for enthusiasts of these quintessentially Russian drinks. Whether you prefer sampling a wide selection of local craft beers at places like Sibirskaya Corona and Beer Market Pub, or delving into the history and flavor of vodka at the Russian Vodka Museum and GlavPivTrade, there are plenty of options to explore the best of Novosibirsk’s drinking culture. Each venue provides a distinctive atmosphere, from modern craft beer pubs to historical vodka tastings, ensuring that every drink enthusiast finds something they’ll enjoy.
