When you think about craft beer in Europe, certain cities spring to mind. London, Munich, Brussels and Prague… all big hitters that have dominated the conversation for years.
You probably aren’t thinking about Sofia, especially given it’s part of a region better known for its rakia.
In fact, Bulgaria’s beer scene only dates back to the mid-19th century when the beverage was introduced by immigrants – but that hasn’t stopped the country climbing the ranks to become 14th in the world for beer consumption per capita, according to a Kirin Beer University Report.
On a recent visit to Sofia, I was lucky enough to get a small sip of the country’s craft beer scene. Headed there yourself? Here’s where to go.
High Five Taproom
A favourite among craft beer enthusiasts in Sofia, High Five Taproom is a cosy space in the city centre with just a few tables inside and out.
Small but mighty, there are around a dozen beers on draught available at any given time, including at least one or two from local breweries. You can try a flight of four from around €12.
There are also fridges filled with bottles and cans, including a beer with vegan bacon that feels more like a meal than a pint that we can’t say we recommend except for the novelty.
Nosferatu
One for fans of metal and rock music (on my visit, the playlist included the delightfully-named band the Stabbitha and the Knifey Wifeys), Nosferatu is a cross between a bar and a bottle shop.
It might be vampire-themed, but there’s no blood bags on sale here – instead you’ll find around five beers on draft and a selection of bottles and cans.
Staff are super friendly and more than willing to give recommendations if you’re not sure what to go for.
Ale House
Having a beer tap at every table so that you can pour your own pints is a novelty, sure, but it’s one we can get behind, particularly as the brew on offer at Ale House is live.
Should you not like the live beer, you can also order a tasting set with options including a pale ale, an Irish red and a New England IPA.
If you’re planning an evening of bar hopping, this is a good one to start with as it has a very solid food menu.
Crafter Bar
A lively bar with a great outdoor area, this is definitely a spot to head to on a warm summer’s night.
There are around 10 beers on draft here, including a couple from Bulgaria.
If you’re looking for cans and bottles to take home with you, Crafter also has a separate shop with a bigger selection.