I recently visited Bratislava for the first time in about 15 years. As expected, the beer scene has changed slightly.
Mestský Pivovar Alžbetka
Mickiewiczova 2242/1, 811 07 Bratislava, Slovakia
My first port of call on this trip to Bratislava. At first looked promising with lots of shiny brew kit and was told this is indeed where their beers are brewed. Only after asking two or three more times did I find out they were brewed elsewhere. Tried a beer, which was ok and the food was rather tasty only to be told, not asked, that I had to move as there was a group coming in. I didn’t linger.
No smaller measures or tasting tray available
Meetnica
Mýtna 2885/19, 811 07 Bratislava, Slovakia
Evidently, smoking is still allowed in bars in Slovakia as long as they don’t serve food. Meetnica did allow smoking and did serve food. Still, I sat near the the door and enjoyed the unadvertised tasting tray. Nice little bar but the smoking hurried along my visit.
100 piv
Medená 33, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovakia
Things started to look up at by the time I’d got to 100 piv. The place was tiny so this was reflected in only 6 (!) draft beers and I’m guessing 100 or so bottles? Friendly staff and generally a nice little stop off. Didn’t manage to get any pictures!
Žil Verne
Panská 245/13, 811 01 Bratislava
Now we’re talking! This is what Eastern European beer ticking bars are supposed to be like! A huge selection of some quite crazy beers. I mean – just look at that that red one – 19 (Fruit Smoothie Pasty Sour with raspberry, redcurrant and vanilla). One of my five a day!
In Slovak, Žil is pronounced a bit like Jules (Žil Verne – Jules Verne) but not the same. It also means ‘he lived’ so I’m trying to work out the play on words but sadly can’t.
Well worth a visit, especially if you’re into Jules Verne themed pubs (!). Tasting trays definitely available!
Bratislavka
Ventúrska 9, 811 01 Bratislava
As seems quite a common thing in these parts, opening hours are quite fluid and Bratislavka had already closed so I had quick breakfast visit before my train to Prague. Looking at the funky decor and menu, I’m guessing that this bar is owned by the same folk as Žil Verne so the same great beer range and tasting trays apply here.
Overall, it looks like Bratislava is up and coming in the modern beer scene but still has a little way to go.
