Beyond Balashi: Discovering Aruba’s Microbrewery Scene & Craft Beer Pairings

Beyond the ever-present Balashi and Chill beers, a delightful microbrewery scene is quietly blossoming in Aruba, offering exciting alternatives and unique pairings that elevate the island’s dining experience. Get ready to explore a world of hoppy delights, from locally inspired ingredients to innovative brewing techniques, that perfectly complement Aruba’s diverse culinary landscape.

Embarking on the Aruban Craft Beer Trail

Forget the predictable vacation brews – Aruba’s craft beer scene is ready to surprise you. While not as expansive as some mainland destinations, the charm lies in the unique character of each brewery and the use of local flavors. The best way to start? Plan a mini-itinerary. Check opening hours, consider transportation (taxis and ride-sharing services are options, but designated drivers are always a good idea!), and prepare your palate for adventure. Don’t expect a huge proliferation of dedicated microbreweries just yet. Many of the interesting beers are served at restaurants and bars that are either brewing on-site or importing craft selections.

Local Flavor: The Breweries and Brewpubs You Must Visit

Let’s dive into some places where you can find some good Aruban craft beer:

Local Store Aruba: While not strictly a brewery, The Local Store is a fantastic starting point. Think of it as a showcase for Aruban culinary talent, and that includes beer! They often feature limited-edition brews from local homebrewers or smaller-scale operations that don’t have their own dedicated taprooms. It’s a fantastic way to sample a wide range of styles and flavors in one spot. The atmosphere is laid-back and very local, offering a nice contrast to the tourist-heavy resorts. This is a great place to try authentic Aruban snacks alongside your beer. This is a cash-only place!

Location: Weg Sero Preto 34A, Noord, Aruba. Expect to spend around $5-$8 for a beer.

Directions: From Palm Beach, take Route 3 south towards Noord. The Local Store is located off the main road, so look for signs and be prepared to turn onto a smaller side street.

Recommendation: Ask the staff about the currently featured local brew. They are always eager to share information about the beers and the brewers behind them. Combine this with Keshi Yena (Aruban stuffed cheese) paired with a malty dark ale, the richness from the Keshi Yena pairs well with the deep, dark flavors.

Craft & Lola: This spot brings a more stylish, modern vibe to the craft beer scene. They have a wide selection to choose from in bottles and cans, featuring many imported selections. It’s located in the heart of the high-rise hotel area so it’s convenient if you’re staying in that sector of Aruba. Check their schedule as they sometimes feature live music and other entertainment.

Location: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 348, Noord, Aruba (Located at the Barcelo Aruba)

Price: Beers roughly start at $7.

Directions: Found inside the Barceló Arubaresort, it’s quite easy to walk if you stay in the high-rise area.

Recommendation: Talk to the staff and explain what you are looking for. They are very knowledgeable about their beer selection. A crisp IPA with the spicy Aruban shrimp is a classic for a reason!

Pairing Craft Beer with Aruban Cuisine: A Flavor Adventure

Now comes the fun part – marrying the flavors of Aruban cuisine with the perfect craft beer. Aruban food is a fantastic mix of Caribbean, Dutch, and South American influences, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes that deserve thoughtful beer pairings.

Keshi Yena and Dark Ales/Stouts: As mentioned before, this classic Aruban dish—a baked cheese shell filled with spiced meat—begs for the robust flavors of a dark ale or stout. The malty sweetness and roasted notes of the beer cut through the richness of the cheese and complement the savory meat filling. Try a brown ale with hints of caramel or chocolate for an extra layer of complexity.

Seafood and IPAs/Pale Ales: Given Aruba’s island location, seafood is a staple. Whether it’s grilled grouper, pan-fried snapper, or fresh ceviche, a hoppy IPA or pale ale is usually a safe bet. The bitterness of the hops will cleanse the palate between bites, while the citrusy aromas enhance the flavors of the fish. A lighter, more sessionable IPA won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the seafood.

Pastechi and Pilsners/Lagers: Another popular Aruban snack, Pastechi, are savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. The crispiness of the pastry and the savory filling are perfectly complemented by the clean, refreshing taste of a pilsner or lager. The beer’s light body and subtle bitterness won’t compete with the flavors of the Pastechi.

Stews (e.g., Cabrito Stoba) and Belgian Ales: For heartier dishes like Cabrito Stoba (goat stew), consider pairing them with a Belgian-style ale. The fruity esters and spicy phenols from the Belgian yeast will add depth and complexity to the stew and enhance the savory flavors. A Belgian Dubbel, with its rich maltiness and dried fruit notes, would be an excellent choice.

Spicy Dishes and Wheat Beers: If you’re indulging in Aruban dishes with a kick, like those featuring the Madame Jeanette pepper, a light and refreshing wheat beer can provide a welcome contrast. The beer’s subtle sweetness and citrusy notes will help cool down your palate and complement the spicy flavors. Try a Belgian Witbier with its coriander and orange peel notes for an extra layer of complexity.

Beyond the Beer: Exploring Aruban Rum

Let’s be honest, aside from beer, Aruba’s rum deserves to be talked about. Although not as widely known as rums from other Caribbean islands, Aruba does have a growing rum scene. While there aren’t any large-scale distilleries on the island, several establishments are importing and aging rums, creating unique blends, and crafting delicious rum-based cocktails. It is certainly something to keep an eye on as their distilling sector grows. Even better, many restaurants are now offering rum pairings with their desserts or post-dinner drinks.

Finding Your Perfect Pint: Tips for Navigating the Aruban Beer Scene

The Aruban craft beer situation is starting to grow, but it requires a bit of exploration. Here are some tips to help navigate the scene:

Ask the Locals: The best way to find hidden gems is to ask locals. Bartenders, servers, and even fellow diners can point you in the direction of unique beers or breweries. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation and tap into their local knowledge.

Read Reviews: Online platforms such as Google Maps, Yelp, and TripAdvisor can provide valuable insights into the beer and dining experiences at various establishments. Pay attention to reviews that specifically mention the beer selection or the quality of the pairings.

Follow Social Media: Many breweries and restaurants use social media to promote new beers, events, and specials. Follow their accounts on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in the Aruban beer scene.

Be Open to Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try new things! The Aruban beer scene is still evolving, so there’s always a chance you’ll discover a hidden gem. Step outside your comfort zone and sample beers that you wouldn’t normally try. You might just find your new favorite brew.

Consider a Beer Tour: Many companies on the island offer organized tours that can transport you around to the island’s best spots for beer and food. Look into those, especially if you don’t want to spend time getting lost or looking for parking.

The Cost of Craft: Budgeting for Your Beer Adventure

Aruba is generally a more expensive destination as it is, and craft beer trends can easily impact your wallet. Expect to pay more for imported craft beers than for local Balashi or Chill. Prices can vary widely depending on the location and the type of beer. Generally speaking, expect to pay $5-$8 for a local beer and $7-$12+ for an imported craft beer. To save money, consider taking advantage of happy hour specials or visiting breweries during off-peak hours, where you might find discounted prices. Also, be sure to factor in transportation costs when planning your beer adventure. Taxis and ride-sharing services can add up quickly, so consider using public transportation or renting a car.

Planning Your Trip: Where to Stay for Easy Access to the Beer Scene

The location of your accommodation can impact how easy it is to access Aruban bars. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay for easy access to the island’s beer scene:

Palm Beach: This is where most of the high-rise hotels are located, it has a good selection of bars and restaurants within walking distance. You’ll find several bars that carry craft selections, and it’s easy to hop between different spots. It’s also home to a popular beach where you can soak up the sun before or after your beer adventures.

Eagle Beach: Another popular area that’s a bit quieter than Palm Beach. It’s a short drive from Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, where you’ll find even more options for beer and dining. You’ll also find craft beer selections at some of the beachfront bars and restaurants.

Oranjestad: The capital city is a great option if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and have easy access to a more diverse range of restaurants and bars. It may not have as many “craft beer specific” bars as the tourist zone, but you’ll find some great places with well-curated selections, especially within some of the restaurants.

Beyond the Tourist Zones: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider staying in a more residential area away from the main tourist zones. You’ll have a more authentic Aruban experience and might stumble upon some hidden gems that are popular with locals. Keep in mind that transportation might be more difficult, so you’ll likely need to rent a car.

The Future of Aruban Craft: What to Expect

The Aruban craft beer scene is still in its infancy, but it has the potential to grow significantly in the coming years. As more tourists and locals discover the world of craft beer, demand for unique and flavorful brews will increase. This might encourage more entrepreneurs to start their microbreweries, leading to a more diverse and exciting beer landscape. While it is still a young scene, the existing spots already show enough potential. There are homebrewers gaining knowledge and experience, and a growing appreciation for quality beer among locals and tourists alike. It won’t be surprising if a more dedicated brewery emerges in the next few years.

FAQ Section

Is Aruban water safe to drink?

Yes, Aruban water is generally safe to drink. Aruba has a desalination plant, which produces potable water from seawater. However, some people may prefer to drink bottled water to avoid any potential taste differences.

What is the legal drinking age in Aruba?

The legal drinking age in Aruba is 18 years old.

Can I bring alcohol into Aruba?

Visitors to Aruba are generally allowed to bring in a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption. The specific limits may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest customs regulations before your trip. As of this writing, the permitted allowance is generally 1 liter of spirits, 2.25 liters of wine, or 3 liters of beer per adult visitor.

Are there any breweries that offer tours in Aruba?

Currently, no brewery offers tours in Aruba, but this is growing, so keep an eye online for any updates.

What are some popular Aruban dishes to pair with beer?

Some popular dishes to pair with beer include Keshi Yena (stuffed cheese), Pastechi (savory pastries), Cabrito Stoba (goat stew), and fresh seafood dishes.

References

Official Aruba Tourism Authority website

TripAdvisor Aruba forums

Yelp Aruba restaurant reviews

Ready to trade those ubiquitous vacation lagers for a taste of something truly unique? Aruba’s burgeoning microbrewery scene is waiting to be discovered, and with a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can elevate your dining experience to new heights. Start exploring! Ask the locals when you arrive for the latest tip. Taste those brews so you can decide which ones will work with the Aruban meals that you will remember for a lifetime. Your perfect pint—and perfect pairing—await!