I love sake, but I also have a deep appreciation for craft beer. Even during my workation in Chichibu, I enjoyed craft beer at a bar, and I often choose restaurants that serve it.
During my 2024 trip to Sydney, I encountered a craft beer called “Young Henrys.” It offered a different kind of appeal from sake and made my stay even more enjoyable.
A “Live Like a Local” Trip in Sydney
This trip to Sydney wasn’t just about sightseeing; I planned to stay for about a week and experience daily life there. Having lived in Sydney for a year before, I wanted to revisit places filled with memories.
I stayed in a hotel with a kitchen, bought Australian ingredients like lamb, local vegetables, and mushrooms at the supermarket, and enjoyed cooking in my room. Naturally, I wanted to pair my meals with a local drink. Wine was an option, but I naturally gravitated towards craft beer.
Among the many choices, I found myself repeatedly reaching for Young Henrys.
What is Young Henrys?
Young Henrys is a craft brewery located in Newtown, Sydney. It has gained immense popularity locally for its strong community focus and environmental consciousness.
Curious about why I was so drawn to it, I did some research while sipping my beer and realized that the brewery was just a short distance from my hotel! I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit.
Brewery Visit Report
I initially tried to book a tour through their website but never received a reply—apparently, the slots were already full. However, I decided to visit their brewery and bar anyway.
Tucked away in a residential area, the brewery appeared almost like a hidden gem. If I were to compare it to Tokyo, it would be like finding a craft beer brewery in the backstreets of Kichijoji or Suginami.
The brewery itself was small and cozy, filled with what seemed to be local regulars. I even saw a father enjoying a drink with his 10-year-old daughter, highlighting the community-oriented atmosphere. Surprisingly, there were no other tourists—just locals who truly appreciated their craft beer.
Tasting Experience
I ordered a “Beer Flight,” which allowed me to sample six different varieties. One might have been ginger ale, but each beer had a handmade quality and a distinct taste. Like sake, each one carried the passion of its brewers.
It was a rainy and slightly chilly day, but after sampling the beers, I felt pleasantly warm and tipsy. As I walked back to my hotel, I felt as though I were living in Sydney, blending in with the local culture.
Just like sake, craft beer reflects the culture and dedication of its makers. Knowing the story behind the drink makes the experience even more enjoyable.
If Tokyo had such an inviting craft beer brewery, it would be great to have a space to casually enjoy not just sake but other artisanal beverages as well. That thought stayed with me long after my visit to Young Henrys.
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