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Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s 5 best craft breweries and beer halls

Southern Africa • Eat & drink • Cape Town’s 5 best craft breweries and beer halls

The best craft breweries and beer halls in Cape Town

Cape Town’s craft beer scene has quietly grown into something special, offering a mix of flavours and experiences that reflect the city’s diverse spirit. The breweries here are as diverse as the city, from the edgy, industrial neighbourhoods to the sun-soaked coastal suburbs. As you wander through the city’s craft beer landscape, you’ll find that no two breweries are the same. Each one has its own personality, its own quirks and its own way of interpreting the art of brewing. Our guide will take you on a journey through the city’s best craft breweries and beer halls, offering a taste of what makes Cape Town’s beer scene so unique.

Woodstock Brewery

Located in the lively, ever-evolving neighbourhood of Woodstock, Woodstock Brewery is more than just a place to grab a beer – it’s a local institution. Since opening its doors in 2010, it’s become a gathering spot for Cape Town’s beer lovers, thanks to its quirky vibe and seriously good brews. They’ve racked up some impressive awards over the years, like taking home the Best IPA at the African Beer Awards. Their Californicator, a West Coast IPA, is a must-try, bursting with zesty citrus and a perfectly bitter finish that keeps you coming back for just one more sip.

Woodstock Brewery
252 Albert Rd
Woodstock
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Woodstock Brewery

Aegir Project Brewery

Situated along the scenic coast in Noordhoek, Aegir Project Brewery is where passion for craft beer meets an easygoing, surf-inspired lifestyle. Founded by Rory Lancellas, a former chemical engineer turned brew-master, Aegir Project Brewery is all about small-batch brews crafted with precision and a lot of love. The brewery’s vibe is unmistakably laid-back and fits in perfectly with the coastal surroundings. We love the Zephyr IPA, it’s a hop-forward brew with a burst of tropical fruitiness that pairs perfectly with an ocean view. What we love about Aegir Project Brewery is their dedication to quality over quantity. Each beer is brewed in limited batches, ensuring that what you’re drinking is as fresh as it gets.

Aegir Project Brewery
65 Beach Rd
Noordhoek
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Aegir Project Brewery

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Shackleton Brewing Company

Shackleton Brewing Company is the perfect choice for those who crave a bit of adventure in their pint. Named after the legendary Antarctic explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton, this brewery isn’t just about making great beer – it’s about embracing the spirit of exploration and pushing the boundaries of what craft brewing can be. The atmosphere here is lively and welcoming, the space is bright with natural light and the interior features some nautical design with wood accents. But the real reason for visiting Shackleton Brewing Company is the beer and the Arctic Pale Ale is not to be missed – a crisp, refreshing beer with a balanced hop profile that feels like a cool breeze after a long journey!

Shackleton Brewing Company
23 Transvaal St
Paarden Eiland
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Shackleton Brewing Company

Afro Caribbean Brewing Company

Hidden above the buzzing Banana Jam Café in Kenilworth, Afro Caribbean Brewing Company isn’t your run-of-the-mill brewery; it’s an explosion of culture, creativity and craft, all rolled into one. Founded by head brewer Greg Casey, Afro Caribbean Brewing Company is all about pushing the envelope with adventurous brews that reflect a love for both the African continent and the Caribbean islands. The taproom is a colourful space that invites you to kick back, relax and let the good times roll with some reggae music in the background. You’ll find a rotating selection of craft beers on tap, each one with a story as unique as the brewery itself. The Jungle Paradise IPA is popular for good reason, this beer has an interesting taste with notes of mango and pineapple notes, balanced by a smooth, hoppy finish.

Afro Caribbean Brewing Company
157 2nd Ave
Kenilworth
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Afro Caribbean Brewing Company

Taproom Salt River

As part of Devil’s Peak Brewing Company, Taproom Salt River is a beer lover’s paradise, serving up a range of finely crafted brews that have become staples in the South African craft beer community. Housed in a refurbished warehouse, the taproom is a reflection of the neighbourhood’s vibrant energy, with its high ceilings, exposed brick and communal tables that encourage conversation. They regularly feature limited-edition brews, so there’s always something new to discover. A standout is their King’s Blockhouse IPA, known for its bold hop profile, with intense flavours of pine and citrus, balanced by a solid malt backbone. It’s no wonder this beer has won multiple awards, cementing Devil’s Peak’s reputation as a leader in the industry.