Argus Pivnushka

Have a good map with a decent Russian translation to find this one! After several missed attempts, and almost throwing in the towel, luck of the land dropped us in on this jewel of St. Petersburg. Nestled below ground level, its simple character allows its beer to speak for itself. With the World Cup on the flat-screens, savoring the two beer selection was well worth the hunt.

Their two draughts consisted of "light" and "dark" and were labeled as such with no further descriptions - for about $3 a pop. Both beers were served in 20 ouncers and were served at good temperature from their nitrogen taps. 12oz were available, but why bother! The light was a nice golden color, consistent with a medium blonde; while the dark was a drinkable brown ale with a nice deep color. Both were well balanced and kept us around for a while.

Located 1.5 blocks off St. Pete's premier street right in the heart of the historic center of the city, this is a great place to come and try the products of the small Argus brewery in the suburbs. Down a flight of steps from the street, the place consists of one room, with cellar like arches and white plaster. The decoration is subdued and rustic. A big screen lines one wall (with the Russian national soccer championship showing in good quality), with the bar on the opposite wall. The whole place can't be more than about eight yards/meters by eight yards/meters, crammed with ten tables able to seat about 40.

Only two beers on tap, pale and dark. This is par for the course for Russian microbreweries. The quality was generally good, with the beers served well in appropriate glassware. The service was reasonably quick given that the place was packed on a Thursday night at about 9:00. Thanks to ORM1 for taking me here, as I doubt I ever would have found it on my own.