Gourmet Trail in Paris: Brewers’ Fayre

Of late, you cannot venture into the bowels of the capital without stumbling smack bang into a new microbrewery. Just follow the tell-tale whiffs of smoky hops and you can be sure to find a hipster-type Millennial at the other end bent over a huge vat, crushing malt. It’s official: the craft beer craze is sweeping the French capital.

Among the growing legions tickling connoisseurs’ muscle Kronenbourg (beer belly) is the Brit-inspired La Beer Fabrique in Paris’s 11th arrondissement. Touted as the city’s first ale workshop, the brasserie initiates scores of discerning drinkers each week into the age-old art of brewing in hands-on tutorials.

A relatively new kid on the block, from its lofty six floors Bap Bap Brewery towers over rue Saint-Maur. Patrons are invited to explore every nook and cranny of the cavernous factory, from the storage room to the ‘fermentation lab’ before guzzling a pint.

But it isn’t only a newcomer’s game: bygone brands are experiencing their own revival. Resurrected by a pair of gutsy enthusiasts in Pantin, 19th-century market-leader Gallia is fast tempting punters back to the fold.

Want to be inspired by more French foodie experiences and enjoy classic French food, wine and recipes? Head to our sister website on Taste of France here.

From France Today magazine