I visit Cologne a few times a year from the US and I'm trying to find some new places that may serve beer other than Kolsh. I know this is probably unicorn territory. I'm big fan of Braustelle. Seems to be non-traditionl for the area. Would love new recommendations, invites, get togethers! I am also open for trading. If anyone would like to trade or do a bottle share, I can bring some stuff from the US. Thanks.
If you come to the area next time, just let me know and we can meet for a beer Or even for a tasting with other BAs/RBs from the area! If you're also open for some of the surrounding cities, let me know. Pubs not serving the "standard" Kölschs are hard to find. Here "Koelschtrinker", a native from Cologne, is the best person to ask - but I think there are not many alternatives Or you can f.ex. take the train to Düsseldorf (only 30min) get all of the great Altbiere.
If I had money for a train ticket I'd consider a hike up there. Also, if you're going to check out Braustelle, ask for the stuff from Sebastian Sauer aka The Monarchy/Freigeist if you aren't familiar already.
Hey Askchucky, You may want to wander out to Frechen and visit http://www.das-urstoff.de/ The previously mentioned"Koelschtrinker" turned me on to this place. Worth a visit. Reachable by public transport from Köln. Also, if you can meet up with Erzengel, you will not be disappointed. He's a great guy, with a great love of beer. If you can make it to Willach-Anrath and the Schmitz-Mönk brewery, you will not be disappointed. Their Kellerbier was very good, their Weiss and Alt were quite nice as well. And, if you have not been, Düssey will rock! Such great beers there. Don't miss out! The train is the best thing ever for a beer drinker! Enjoy...... Oh, I also quite enjoyed Gleumes in Krefeld as well. A little bit nw from Düsseldorf. Again, easily reachable via public transport. Prost!
