Volcano Brewing Company

No Longer In Business

I went here in August. However I am now almost certain it is closed (uncle lives down the road and has told me the signs have been taken down) It’s a shame really. Beautiful setting but the building itself is extremely run own. They had beers on tap from the other craft breweries in Costa Rica too which impressed me. The location of this place must do it no favours. Even though Arenal is a big area of interest for tourists, this is a little way from activities. The selection is poor by European standards but remember this is in remote Costa Rica so I reviewed it accordingly. Food was pretty good and it was extremely cheap.

Only have been in here once since the hotel changed hands and new owners put the brewpub front and center. Smart move to put the bar upstairs for the better view of the lake (and the volcano on the other side, if the air is clear enough). Found both the pale ale and Malo Gato brown to be very drinkable. Frozen mugs I could do without, but it was hot as hell that day so I wasn’t going to ask for another. I’m sure you could, though. Beers from Costa Rica’s Craft Brewing were here as well, on draft. Tasty burger and I look forward to trying more of the grub as they go as locavore as possible. Very friendly people as well.

Volcano Brewing is currently one of two craft breweries in Costa Rica, and one of three total. Located on the southwestern extent of Arenal lake, it’s easily reached if you’re going from or to Arenal from Monteverde. Right off the main road, with signs along the way making it’s location known, you won’t miss it. Restaurant/bar upstairs with the brewing equipment and seating rooms downstairs, all open atmosphere. It uses a 6 barrel system, and on my visit (January 2012) there were two beers on tap (pale ale and witbier) with a English nut brown to come. The beers are sometimes available at Witch’s Rock surf camp/pub/restaurant in Tamarindo. The brewer was available to chat about the operation, and he’s buddies with the CRBC folks in Cartago. Beer was quite good, and especially good considering the only other things you’ll find in CR, beer-wise, are Florida/Heineken products such as Pilsen and Imperial.