When people talk about Fukuoka, the conversation always circles back to food, especially ramen, yakitori, and yatai culture. What does not come up nearly as often is the craft beer culture. There are breweries I had not heard of before I visited, and several bars carrying a decent selection of Japanese and international craft beers. I had a long list to work through. However, I could not visit some because they were either more difficult to access or were closed. Here are some of the ones I visited.

Craft Beer Locations in Fukuoka:
Beerkichi
Bar STANDard SHOP
Esperanza
Craft Beer Club CONTINUE?
The Basket
Fukuoka Craft
Umineko Stand Yoca

Beerkichi

Delicious food, great service, and excellent beer is how I would sum up this shop. The mascot is an adorable cartoon cat who appears on everything from glassware to merch. If you have spent any time exploring Japan’s craft beer scene, I am sure you have seen his face somewhere. The food menu leans into snacks and pizza that pair well with beer. I was not disappointed with anything that I tried. The pepperoni pizza was probably my favorite because it had such a nostalgic flavor. The staff were so kind even before they realized I could speak Japanese. Once we started talking, the conversation covered travel, beer, and everything in between. The atmosphere was good enough that I went back on my last night.

Bar STANDard SHOP

The atmosphere of the bar is incredibly stylish, and the drinks menu backs it up. They have a good list of craft beer taps, cans, and even draft cocktails (try the Negroni or Grasshopper). If you are a beer geek or cocktail lover, you will enjoy this bar. They also offer a variety of foods that are phenomenal. The pizza, mentaiko potato salad, and spareribs were all perfectly made and delicious. Go hungry and take your time to work through the menu. I spent some time talking with Kaho-san about her food and travel interests as well. She makes the atmosphere even better.

Esperanza

This one came recommended by Alex and Colin from Tall Boys Brewing, and it is the exact kind of local spot that is worth visiting. The beer and cocktail list covers most tastes, and you can also try some homemade umeshu. I had just eaten lunch, so I skipped the food. However, the menu includes lamb, seasonal dishes, and many options that pair well with beer and wine. If you want good conversation in a relaxed local setting, this is the place.

Craft Beer Club CONTINUE?

If you read my post about TAP&TUMBLER, you will remember the POUR self-serve system. Continue uses the same concept where you pour your own beers by the amount you want rather than having to commit to a whole pint. It’s also video game-themed and connected to Gamebrew Brewing. The food menu is small but well-chosen. It includes fried jalapenos, tacos, and fried shrimp. Because it is inside Hakata Station, it’s an easy stop whether you’re passing through or making a point to visit.

The Basket

Technically this is a burger shop rather than a craft beer bar, but it is worth including because they do have a decent selection of craft beer. They make almost everything in-house, including the bacon and pickles. The craft beers are mostly in cans or bottles. They had several Himitsu Beers and a few Pizza Port options. If you are looking for burgers and beer together, this is a must-visit shop. The staff also speak English and are incredibly kind.

Fukuoka Craft

Fukuoka Craft has two downtown locations. One is a small standing bar near Hakata Station, and the other is a bit further away. The larger location serves Tex-Mex along with their taps. Both carry Fukuoka Craft’s own beers and guest taps. I preferred the smaller location near the station, but the guacamole, salsa, and chips at the other spot paired well with beer. If you are traveling with a group, the larger location is more accommodating.

Stand Umineko Yoca

Owned by Osaka’s Derailleur Beer, this shop offers their lineup alongside other selections of craft beer from around Japan. When I visited, they had 14 taps and a large selection of cans, including Blade Factory Brewing from Gifu. The space is bright and modern. It works well whether you are drinking solo or with a small group. I was more impressed by the cans available than the taps when I visited.

Final Thoughts

There were a few other spots that I wanted to visit but was unable to do so. Beersonic was at the top of that list, but the hours did not line up with my schedule. It is first on the list for my next trip.
If craft beer is not your thing, Notime Mixology Bar is a local craft cocktail bar that is worth visiting.
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If you make it to any of these spots, let me know. If you find somewhere else in Fukuoka Prefecture worth adding, I would love to hear about it.

Craft Beer Guide: Fukuoka Edition