Cheers to Hauts-de-France: The Top 6 Craft Beer Bars for Beer Lovers in Northern France
Our selection of 6 craft beer bars
Chez Marcel, the trendy haven for the people of Arras
Meet Master Marcel, whose real name is Luka Antonic. He’s clearly not one to hide behind his mustache; quite the opposite, he’s more than talkative when it comes to deciphering his favorite beers. Beautifully located close to the prestigious squares of Arras, under the arcades, his bar is in a former soap factory classified as a Historical Monument. ‘This place has preserved its charm,’ says this former lawyer turned beer specialist (or zythologist for the initiated), sporting a smile that reaches his beard this time. Just like the passion on the rugby field, Master Marcel’s bar has been wholeheartedly embraced by the entire Arras community, becoming ‘the place to beer‘ for curious enthusiasts seeking the latest trends and the finest gems from craft breweries in Hauts de France, across France, and around the world. Our expert truly indulges in a delightful variety of taste experiences. Listen to him speak, and he’ll passionately intoxicate you during his beerology workshops, where you’ll savor the delights of his smooth, roasted, toasted, or bitter brews, tangy or spicy, floral or fruity notes… Everyone finds their hoppy notes to relish!
Arras is only 40 minutes from Lille by train. A beautiful town to explore if you have time in between games during the World Cup.
Star-studded foam at La Capsule
Looking for a pint with your mates? Venture into Old Lille or Arras to visit La Capsule, a globally renowned gem, even voted as the top beer bar in France. Make sure to add this Lille treasure to your to-drink list, although the tables might be sought after in the typical red-brick vaulted cellar of the North. Here, you’ll find everything but the traditional. The dynamic duo, Anthony and Franck, know their craft well, so trust their expertise and let the discoveries begin!
In Arras, the bar lacks a cellar but boasts a charming terrace under the arcades. Your lovely bartenders will pamper you, providing cozy blankets if it gets too chilly outside.
Brooklyn vibes at Brique House
If you’re curious about unconventional spots, you’re in the right place! In a raw and edgy setting, the two protagonists, Baptiste and Joseph, transformed an old textile factory into a brewery coupled with a tap room, spanning a whopping 1,700 m2. Mismatched chairs, plush and comfy sofas, exposed brick walls with neon lights, foosball, and a disco ball create a hybrid living space where you can come with friends to savor ultra-fresh beers straight from the tanks surrounding your table. You’ll also delight in their incredible pizza, Papà Raffaele, a delicious treat by former Top Chef (our Master Chef) candidate Damien Laforce and his accomplice Luciano Farinelli. The 200 seating places are often in high demand, so come early to be safe, and during sunny days, enjoy their vast terrace. Trust us, there’s a distinct Brooklyn vibe here!
Fresh Hops at Cambier Brewery
It’s no surprise that Jean-Christophe Cambier, an agricultural engineer, metamorphosed into a beer expert. He’s well-versed in yeast, having first worked at “Paul”, the master baker in the region, and later honed his dosing skills in Heineken’s premises. For him, beer is a convivial product meant to be shared in an equally convivial place. The temptation to create his own brewery, along with a delightful bar, was evident, leading him to embark on this adventure. The copper decor of his stills are a highlight of the visit along with tasting of his fabulous brews. Among the diverse beer ranges of Mongy and Cambier, the master of this place will be delighted to help you choose.
Anti-Waste Brewing at Tandem
A dynamic duo, Aymeric and Pierre-André in Wambrechies, brew their beer with passion keeping environmental concerns and consumers’ opinion at the heart of what they do. They can even create a beer just for you, your family, or friends, and they’ll even print a personalized label for it. You’ll be all the more enthusiastic to know that they produce in an eco-responsible manner and feed the animals of our farmers with cereal residues. Here, discussions revolve around hops, flavors are explored, and eco-friendliness is a top priority. Don’t miss the chance to try the bitterness of the ‘Poule Mouillée’ (‘Wet Chicken’), the refreshing ‘Attrape Nigaud’ (‘Catch a Gullible’), the aromatic ‘Bonne Pioche’ (‘Good pick’), or the spicy and floral ‘Pas Cap’ (“You woudn’t dare”).
Brewed Gems from Young Lille Talents
The three young wizards of the ‘Singe Savant‘ (‘Wise Monkey’), surrounded by their brewing equipment, concoct their potion, emphasizing maximum sustainability (short circuits, waste reduction, bottle recycling…). Their motto: create, improvise, explore, and share! Their beers – such as the 21st-century Granivore, Arctic Papayou, Mexican Papa, Trou du Lapin, and Fumer du Chihuahua – allow you to experience intense sensations and set the tone for this original urban microbrewery. Nestled in the Moulins district (metro stop Porte d’Arras), these thirty-year-olds, happy to take risks, welcome you in an ultra-relaxed atmosphere.
As for ‘La Mousse Touch‘, while you might not wet your mustache, you’ll enjoy their beer brewed on-site, especially ‘La Daron,’ crafted by the young manager’s father. Located close to the iconic and vibrant Gare Saint-So, it’s the perfect stop before an exhibition or a concert, and if you’re feeling peckish, a charcuterie and/or cheese board will complement the wide variety of bubbly brews.