Saint Petersburg, with its vibrant and growing craft beer scene, is home to some fantastic beer gardens where you can enjoy local brews in a relaxed and social setting. From traditional Russian beers to innovative craft options, these beer gardens provide the perfect place to sip on a cold drink, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a casual spot to unwind, here are the best beer gardens in Saint Petersburg for local brews.
1. BrewDog Saint Petersburg: A Global Brand with Local Charm
Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, BrewDog Saint Petersburg is part of the global BrewDog family, known for its craft beers and laid-back atmosphere. This beer garden offers a mix of international craft beers and local Russian brews, making it a perfect spot for those wanting to experience both worlds.
Why Visit?
- Local and International Beers: BrewDog Saint Petersburg features a wide range of local Russian craft beers alongside their own brews, offering a variety of options for beer lovers.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The spacious and modern beer garden has a lively, energetic vibe, making it a great spot for hanging out with friends or meeting fellow beer enthusiasts.
- Quality Food Pairings: The beer menu is complemented by a selection of delicious burgers, snacks, and bar food that pair perfectly with the craft beers.
Popular Brews:
- BrewDog Pale Ale: A crisp, refreshing pale ale that’s a crowd favorite.
- Zhigulevskoye: A traditional Russian lager known for its light and crisp flavor, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Tips for Visiting:
- Order the Beer Flight: If you can’t decide which beer to try, opt for the beer flight to sample a selection of local and international brews.
- Check the Events: BrewDog Saint Petersburg often hosts beer tastings and live music, so be sure to check their schedule.
2. Craft Revers: A True Haven for Local Brews
Craft Revers is a must-visit for craft beer lovers who want to sample a wide variety of local Russian craft beers in a relaxed, casual setting. Located in the city center, this beer garden is dedicated to offering the best of Russian brewing talent, with a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability.
Why Visit?
- Local Russian Craft Beer Focus: Craft Revers serves a large selection of local craft beers from breweries across Russia, so you can truly dive into the Russian beer scene.
- Relaxed Outdoor Setting: The spacious beer garden is perfect for lounging on warm evenings, with plenty of seating options, greenery, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Affordable Prices: The beer prices are quite reasonable, making Craft Revers a great spot for both beer aficionados and casual drinkers.
Popular Brews:
- Stary Melnik: A classic Russian pale ale with a balanced, hoppy flavor that’s both refreshing and easy to drink.
- Vasileostrovskoye: A popular Russian craft lager, perfect for a light, crisp beer on a sunny afternoon.
Tips for Visiting:
- Ask the Staff for Recommendations: The staff at Craft Revers are knowledgeable about the local beer scene, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations based on your taste preferences.
- Enjoy the Beer and Snacks: Pair your beer with some of the local snacks like salo (cured pork fat), pickles, or cheese for the ultimate Russian beer experience.
3. Pivorama: A Relaxed Spot with a Great Selection of Local Beers
Pivorama is a spacious and welcoming beer garden that specializes in offering a vast selection of local craft beers and Russian imports. Located just outside the hustle and bustle of the city center, Pivorama provides a more relaxed environment to enjoy a cold one with friends or fellow beer lovers.
Why Visit?
- Large Selection of Russian Beers: Pivorama boasts an extensive range of Russian craft beers, from stouts to IPAs, all brewed locally by some of Russia’s best-known breweries.
- Ample Outdoor Seating: The spacious outdoor seating area is ideal for enjoying the sun while sipping on a cold beer, surrounded by lush greenery and an easygoing atmosphere.
- Great for Groups: Pivorama is perfect for larger groups, offering plenty of seating and a fun, social vibe.
Popular Brews:
- Shishkin Les: A well-balanced Russian IPA that offers a mix of citrusy hops and smooth malt flavors.
- Baltika #9: A bold and malty Russian lager with a rich flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with hearty foods.
Tips for Visiting:
- Try the Beer Tasting Set: Pivorama offers beer tasting sets, which allow you to sample a variety of local brews for a unique and fun tasting experience.
- Pair with Local Food: Don’t miss the chance to pair your beer with some traditional Russian snacks or charcuterie to enhance your experience.
4. Karamel’ Craft Bar: A Cozy Spot for Beer and Bites
Located in one of the most charming areas of Saint Petersburg, Karamel’ Craft Bar is a small, cozy beer garden with a focus on high-quality Russian craft beers and delicious, hearty food. With a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a great beer in a casual, unpretentious setting.
Why Visit?
- Russian Craft Beer Focus: Karamel’ Craft Bar features a handpicked selection of Russian craft beers, focusing on quality and unique flavors.
- Cozy and Intimate: The cozy atmosphere makes Karamel’ Craft Bar a great spot for a quiet evening with a craft beer, away from the crowds of larger venues.
- Delicious Beer Pairings: The bar offers a great selection of snacks and small plates, perfect for pairing with your chosen beer.
Popular Brews:
- Yelagin: A light and refreshing lager brewed locally, perfect for those looking for something crisp and easy to drink.
- Bira Uzhgorod: A Russian stout with rich flavors of coffee, chocolate, and caramel.
Tips for Visiting:
- Small but Excellent Menu: Although the food menu is small, it’s packed with flavorful options that pair beautifully with the craft beers.
- Try the Beer Cocktails: Karamel’ Craft Bar offers creative beer cocktails, combining the best of craft beer with fresh ingredients.
5. Balkon: A Rooftop Beer Garden with Local Brews and Stunning Views
If you’re looking for a scenic beer garden, Balkon is a must-visit. Located on a rooftop, this beer garden offers breathtaking views of the city, making it a great place to relax and enjoy local beers while overlooking Saint Petersburg’s stunning skyline.
Why Visit?
- Rooftop Views: The rooftop setting provides a unique and picturesque backdrop while you sip on your favorite local brew.
- Locally Sourced Brews: Balkon offers a curated selection of local Russian craft beers, with a focus on seasonal and small-batch brews.
- Relaxed and Stylish Atmosphere: The combination of modern décor and a laid-back vibe makes Balkon a great spot for both casual drinks and special evenings out.
Popular Brews:
- Red October: A deep, malty Russian red ale with hints of caramel and a smooth, balanced finish.
- Russian River IPA: A popular IPA with bold, hoppy flavors and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Tips for Visiting:
- Perfect for Sunset Drinks: Visit in the early evening to catch a stunning sunset while sipping your favorite beer.
- Reserve a Table: Since it’s a popular spot, reserving a table in advance is a good idea, especially on weekends.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg offers a wealth of beer gardens where you can enjoy local brews in relaxed and enjoyable settings. Whether you’re looking for a craft beer haven like Craft Revers, a lively atmosphere at BrewDog, or a more intimate experience at Karamel’ Craft Bar, these beer gardens showcase the best of Russian craft beer culture. From traditional lagers to innovative craft options, there’s something for every beer lover in Saint Petersburg’s vibrant beer scene. So, gather your friends, grab a cold drink, and enjoy the unique flavors of Russia’s finest brews!
