You make yourself a coffee in the morning, so why not make your own beer in the evening? This is more or less the thinking behind Brew Unique, “brew-master” Michael Gilmore’s DIY beer concept. It all started in 2015 when Mike took over a former Sentier boutique, renovating it in the style of a cooking workshop. Well, making beer is pretty much cooking: you need plants, hot water, the right temperature and a skilled hand, an expertise within everyone’s reach if you’re patient and listen to Mike’s explanations – which are helpful and encouraging throughout.
After being chief brewer for the French bar chain Frog & Rosbif for many years, this American decided to spread his wings. Together with Simon Thillou from Cave à Bulles, he created this unique brewery bang in the middle of the capital. Mike’s warm welcome and the concept’s originality have made Brew Unique a victim of its own success: reservations must be made months in advance and the waiting list is long. But considering you get 36 bottles of your own beer to take home, it’s worth it.
TRANSLATION: LEONIE CATER