Norton Rat’s Tavern

Visited in the evening. Located near the Plaza de Armas on the second floor. It's actually pretty big up there with a huge bar that could probably seat 40 or more. Tried to order something from their menu but was told they didn't carry that. Settled for a cider. They carried the Oltree ciders, which I had been wanting to try. They had four to choose from. Service was a bit lackluster, but she got the job done. I would probably visit again if I had time.

When in town, options are quite limited for places specialising in beer so you’ll invariably end up here as it’s right on Plaza de Armas. To be honest, I was pretty underwhelmed. Service was crap, the food was terrible (which when in Peru, expectations are very high) and it’s quite expensive. I found the only reason to come here was to get your hands on some of the brews seemingly only available here. In fairness it has an excellent view if you can snag a spot on the tiny balcony but for pure beer enjoyment, head around the corner to La Bodega 138.

Kind of an English pub atmosphere with darts and large flags on the ceiling. Decent beer list for Peru. Staff is pretty clueless.

A really great place to sit outside and watch people and the main square while enjoying a craft beer. Pretty neat they have darts to play inside.

Facing the square the sign on the balcony says Norton’s Pub. The side door says Norton Rat’s. Pretty cool place for Cusco overlooking the main square. They have four house beers on tap under the new label Zenith but I think it’s the same brewery. They also have a number of Peruvian micros in bottles such as Barbarian. And they have some British and Belgian beer. Their own beers are only 10 soles a pint. I plan to be back a few times while we’re in Cusco. Most patrons here seem to be drinking Cusquena,which is unfortunate because they have much better stuff available.

A group and I headed here on a Saturday evening and we were greeted with a great atmosphere and, despite the crowd, the staff upheld a prompt and efficient service. A seemingly good mix of locals and tourists alike creating a good vibe. The selection is OK with many standard offerings but the bulk is in bottle form. I opted for the house brewed Pale Ale on tap and was hoping to try the Brown Ale and Porter but they weren’t on, unfortunately. All in all a fair experience and well worth a visit if you’re in the city.

As manager of Norton Rat’s, of course I’ll have only good things to say about the place. What I want to make known is that we now have premium craft beers on tap, Snortin’ Norton Porter, Pale Ale and Brown Ale, all delicious! We also plan to do seasonal specialty beers. You won’t find beer this good anywhere else in Peru. Come taste to believe! Norton’s is now truly a beer lover’s paradise! I’d also like to point out that we are no longer on Loreto, but have an even bigger and finer location, still on the main plaza, since 2008. Enter from calle Santa Catalina Angosta 116.

Rating beer bars in locations where the expectations have to be lowered is a challenge. For ambiance, I like Paddy’s Pub better, although Norton’s has the balcony overlooking the Main Square which is a huge bonus and it has the better bottle selection. Bottom line, Rey them both, but remember, when in Peru you’re visit is not about beer so you’re better off hitting Limo for their amazing Pisco bar and only spending time at the Paddy’s and Norton’s if you’re in town for an extended time.

Caddy corner from Paddy’s Pub and Cross Keys, Norton Rat’s Tavern (Norton’s is the only thing labeled on the outside) is the closest thing Cusco has to a beer bar. It has the familiar taps that Cross Keys and Paddy’s Pub have such as Abbot Ale, Green King IPA, Old Speckled Hen. These are really the only beers on tap you are going to find in Cusco. But Norton’s also has an impressive bottle list with a focus on decent Belgian stuff that is nearly impossible to find in Peru. Beers like La Chouffe, Chimay, Delirium Tremens, St Feuillien..along with English bottles like Fullers London Pride, Fullers London Porter. Many more. Not a great place for craft beer, but very impressive considering the location. Big upside is that this bar is usually packed, lots of fun, has darts, a patio, and a great place to meet other travelers. More fun than Cross Keys and less crowded than Paddy’s Pub. Not super cheap by Peruvian standards but fair pricing.