Brouwerij Martinus

History and Brewing Heritage

Established in 2015 by the Swierstra family in a monumental industrial building designed by architect Frans Klein, Brouwerij Martinus revives Groningen's beer tradition. Originally a printing press, the multi-story structure now houses a 10,000-liter monthly production facility with massive fermentation tanks visible from dining areas. Brewer Martijn crafts diverse styles like blondes, saisons, smoked porters, and barrel-aged specialties using a 1,000-liter brewhouse.[1][4][6]

Ground Floor Brewery and Shop

Enter to the aroma of malt and hops amid bubbling kettles and towering tanks. Watch the brewing process or purchase bottles from the on-site shop open weekdays 10:30-17:00 (later Fri-Sat) and Sundays seasonally. Mout sacks are hoisted to the top-floor mill, offering glimpses of industrial operations from every level.[1][3]

Restaurant and Café Experiences

Ascend to the first-floor restaurant (Thu-Sat 17:30-22:00) for meals beside the kettles, featuring weekly changing dishes from €20.50 mains and €34.50 three-course menus. The second-floor brouwcafé serves fresh draft beers in a homely setting, with a dakterras open in good weather overlooking the iconic Martinitoren.[2][4][5]

Guided Tours and Events

Join Dutch-language tours Fri 16:30 and Sat 13:00/14:30/16:00 (€15, 1 hour, 3 tastings, min 4 people). The venue hosts jazz sessions, board game afternoons, and festivals like Beerwalk Groningen, blending craft beer with live music in the vibrant café.[2][4][6][8]

Location and Atmosphere

Tucked on Kostersgang 32-34 in Binnenstad, steps from Grote Markt, the brewery blends industrial grit with welcoming warmth. Multi-level design creates an immersive journey from production to tasting, perfect for beer enthusiasts exploring Groningen's craft scene.[1][4][9]