By David Lomas – Travel Reporter, Time for Life Magazine
There’s something refreshing about a venue that genuinely lives up to its name. East West Brewing on Phu Quoc isn’t simply a brewery with a beach view – it’s a place that deliberately blends Eastern flavours with Western brewing heritage, and in doing so creates a relaxed space where locals, expats and travellers can naturally come together.
A Legacy of Brewing
One interesting fact, that I feel I must mention: East West Brewery brought their award-winning craft beer standards from their original home in Saigon directly to the shores of Phu Quoc.
The venue here is actually a fully functioning brewery. Guests are “drinking craft beer just a few steps away from the tanks where it has been brewed”
This concept is straightforward: Combine Vietnamese and Asian-inspired dishes with craft beers brewed to international standards. The result? A menu and drinks list that in my opinion, is just perfect.
Great selection of Craft Beers
Let me begin with the beer – particularly the Far East IPA. I’ve sampled more than a few IPAs over the years, and this one is as good as anything I’ve tasted. It’s properly balanced, with confident hop character, clean bitterness and a smooth finish. It has depth without being overpowering, and it works very well alongside some of the stronger flavours on the menu.
It’s pretty strong, so not for everyone but the venue has an incredible range of lighter beers to suit all tastes. Their newest brew is called the Good Times Lager, which is their lightest beer yet.
Selection of International Dishes
Let’s now turn to the food – which is equally good. We ordered shrimps in butter and garlic – and there was no shortage of garlic. Which is exactly as it should be. The dish was generous, and packed with a spicy flavour.
The deep-fried calamari was crisp and light, while the chicken wings in tamarind sauce delivered a sort of sweet-and-sour balance, with enough richness to make them properly satisfying.
The kitchen specifically designs these dishes to pair perfectly with the flavour profiles of all the East West craft beers.
A Perfect Location
For me, location plays a big part in many of my food experiences. The East West brewery actually sits right on the beach, with plenty of comfortable seating from where lots of people gather together to chill out every night and watch the sunset.
With very comfortable seating, attentive staff, and some soft sounds coming from the stage, it’s very easy to settle in for the whole evening.
East West Brewing Taproom in Phu Quoc Island
What I particularly like is the atmosphere, which feels relaxed and inclusive. You see many different cultures mixing easily over good food and well-crafted beer. No fuss. No pretence. This is simply a well-run venue doing what it does – and doing it very well.
All in all, this is without doubt my favourite location on Phu Quoc Island. They are combining quality craft beer, satisfying food and a superb beachfront setting.
It somehow manages to blend East & West cultures in a way that feels absolutely natural.
I can personally recommend this venue as a special place to spend an afternoon or an evening when you visit this incredible Vietnamese island.
I’ll just say – Cheers!
