China

China has a decent amount of craft breweries, mainly in the larger cities. This is somewhat surprising considering how restrictive the Chinese government can be in many of their citizen’s daily activities. Nonetheless, there definitely is a craft beer boom going on in the country, so be sure to see out a tasty beverage if you find yourself in the country!

Brewery Map

Brewery Reviews

Beijing

  1. Great Leap Brewing Company:
    • About the Space:
      • I went to Great Leap Brewing #6, which was somewhat small on the inside, but they had a large open patio with outdoor seating. They have a few locations around the city, so be sure to look them up!
    • About the Beer:
      • Some really good craft beer. Not much else to say, other than this place surprised me! I liked the Dan Cong Dark Ale and the Little General IPA.
  2. Slow Boat Brewing:
    • About the Space:
      • Small-ish brewpub that felt like I warped back into the US when I walked in. If you need a break from Chinese people, go here!
    • About the Beer:
      • Some really tasty craft beer offerings. Definitely some of the best I had I China. Try the Ropes End Rye or the West Coast IPA.

Shanghai

  1. Boxing Cat Brewery:
    • About the Space:
      • Small little brewpub near the French Concession that offers food. Nice and cozy place to hang out after a day of sightseeing. They have seating inside, as well as a nice patio outside.
    • About the Beer:
      • Some quality, delicous craft beer in China! I liked their Glasgow Kiss Scotch Ale and the Firecracker Imperial Red Ale.
  2. DAGA Brewpub:
    • About the Space:
      • Very large taproom and restaurant in the French Concession area. They have three levels of seating: the main floor overlooking the street, the second floor that felt like a coffee shop, and a rooftop seating area.
    • About the Beer:
      • They have an excellent selection of Chinese craft beers, plus other international craft options. With over 40 beers on draft, plus more in bottles, you’ll likely find something you enjoy. Get a flight if you can’t make up your mind!
  3. Shanghai Brewing Company:
    • About the Space:
      • Large brewpub with two floors, so plenty of seating. Numerous TVs throughout, making this almost feel like a sports bar. They also offer western food.
    • About the Beer:
      • They offer a wide range of styles, so they will have something you like. I found most of them to be average to above average beers. I enjoyed the Black Eyed Bear Stout and the North Star IPA.

Suzhou

  1. Meister Brau:
    • About the Space:
      • German brew pub located right on Jinji lake, next to the Suzhou Culture and Arts Centre. Come here to watch gorgeous sunsets on the lake while indulging on German foods. They have ample seating inside, plus a large patio for outdoor seating. There is also live music during the busy season.
    • About the Beer:
      • If you like German beer, this is a good place to go, however, they only have 3 beers on tap: A Lager, Dunkel, and Wheat. All of them are pretty standard for their style of beer, but they are much more satisfying when you’re in China and all you can find is rice lagers!