Situated in the heart of the East Vancouver Brewery district known as ‘Yeast Van’, is a quaint but vibrant craft brewery known as Andina Brewing Company. The South American inspired lounge space offers a variety of artisanal beers, local craft cider, alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, as well as Chilean or Argentine wine.  The tasting lounge also offers an extensive selection of traditional Andean dishes prepared in-house, with the freshest South American and British Columbian ingredients.

Beer of the Month

It just so happens, the brewing team released a fresh batch of their ‘Pálida’ pale ale on tap during my latest visit.  Don’t let the hazy appearance fool you, it is approachable as it is flavorful.  Notes of citrus, stone fruit, and melon, along with a light-medium mouth feel, makes it the ideal beverage to pair with their fresh and tangy ‘De La Casa’ ceviche (cooked shrimp, avocado, cilantro, peppers, red onion, and mango in a light mayo/lemon sauce).

Next on the docket, is the year round staple ‘Monita’ Blonde IPA.  Although hop forward, this balanced brew has a sturdy malt presence, and restrained bitterness.

Rest assured, there are options for casual beer seekers also, as the clean and refreshing ‘Cerveza’ Pilsner pairs wonderfully with their flavorful and satisfying empanadas.

For the self-proclaimed craft beer enthusiasts, Andina offers a rotating ‘Conchita’ coffee beer series to satisfy your thirst for the experimental.  Their latest release is a Kölsch, an approachable German blonde ale, infused with Colombian Coffee.  This one is balanced but complex, due to the interplay of the subtle coffee and beer flavor profiles.

Be on the lookout for their ‘Agria’ rotating sour beer series as well.  Rumor has it, the upcoming release will either be jam packed with a certain type of berry, and/or a popular citrus fruit!