Great Leap Brewing

Tucked inside the Chaoyang District near the vibrant Sanlitun and Workers’ Stadium area, Great Leap Brewing’s #45 branch on Xinyuan Street is a cornerstone of Beijing’s craft-beer revolution. From its visible fermenters to the chalkboard tap list, the brewpub offers a genuine “grain-to-glass” experience: the slender tanks, the copper piping, the wood tables—all contribute to the authenticity of the place. At #45 the beers on tap include staples from the brewery’s roster—such as the acclaimed Honey Ma Gold, Pale Ale #6 and Banana Wheat—alongside rotating seasonal experiments using local Chinese ingredients like Sichuan pepper or Tieguanyin tea. The ethos: craft beer that says “Beijing” as much as it says “beer.” The food menu supports the drinking: expect New York-style pizzas, wings, burgers and hearty pub fare—ideal companions to a crisp IPA or rich porter. With its upstairs and downstairs spaces, the atmosphere ranges from lively and social to comfortable and settled; it's ideal for a pre-night-out beer, a casual hang-out or even a relaxed solo session with a book and a pint. Located on the 45th floor? Not literally—but at “#45 Xinyuan Street” you’re still very central, reachable via subway and well-placed among Beijing’s nightlife and expat-friendly zones. The crowd is local, international, mix of craft-beer aficionados and visitors seeking something beyond the standard beer bar. A few tips: Arrive early evening if you want a seat at the bar; it gets busy later. Ask the bartender about the latest seasonal beer—something unique will likely be on. Food orders will help, especially if you plan to linger. Some visitors note that while the atmosphere remains great, the vibe has shifted compared to its early hutong days.