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Category 12 Brewing

4.7
·342 reviews·Saanichton, Canada

A unique 'Outer Space' themed brewpub on Vancouver Island, known for experimental craft beers and delicious, locally-sourced pub fare.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Pint's eye view

Category 12 Brewing

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique 'Outer Space' themed brewpub on Vancouver Island, known for experimental craft beers and delicious, locally-sourced pub fare.

4.7
(342 reviews)

"This brew pub brings together people who love brewing beer with a seasoned chef who makes delicious food; a perfect pairing."

Vertical photo
TIP

✈️ Plan your route

Consider visiting on your way into Victoria from the ferry for a convenient stop.

🍺 Sample before you commit

Ask for tasters to find your perfect brew; flights are also available.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 342 reviews

Type

Food

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Experimental Brews

Experimental Brews

Discover unique and creative beers, from sours to stouts, with rotating taps and seasonal offerings.

Delicious Pub Fare

Delicious Pub Fare

Enjoy surprisingly good food, including wings, flatbreads, and seasonal specials, that perfectly complements the beer.

Island-Grown & Supported

Island-Grown & Supported

Experience a brewery that's 100% Island-run, supporting local producers and even repurposing spent hops.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially during off-peak hours. Weekends can get busy, but the patio offers a pleasant outdoor option. Check their social media for special events or new beer releases.

Taste Before You Buy

Don't hesitate to ask for tasters of their unique brews before committing to a full pint or growler. Many visitors rave about the experimental flavors and the chance to sample flights.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend lunch
Why
Enjoy patio seating
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We had an awesome Friday a couple weeks ago exploring Butchart Gardens and wrapping it up with a cold one at Category 12 Brewing! #electriclawn #victoria #tgif
electric.lawn
52 likes • 2.7K views

✈️ Plan your route

Consider visiting on your way into Victoria from the ferry for a convenient stop. Reddit

🍺 Sample before you commit

Ask for tasters to find your perfect brew; flights are also available. Reddit

भारत के मूलनिवासी कौन है #category #categoryis #categoryfeatured #categoryeveningwear #CATEGORY5CABLE #category7 #CATEGORY5 #category3 #categorygeek #categoryhall #category12brewing #categoryisguysnextdoorrealness #categorymanagement
motivational.speech65
4 likes • 37 views
📍Category 12 Brewing ☘️☘️Happy St. Patrick’s Day☘️☘️ We were all-in to try Category 12 Brewery’s Nitro Deviation, classic Irish stout with flavours of roasted malts and hints of vanilla. Very rich and creamy. ☘️☘️ Served with Irish Hand Pies with Deviation Nitro braised beef from Michell’s Farms. ☘️☘️ Fresh, locally sourced food from their on-site kitchen. ☘️☘️ #yyjevents #yyjeats #yyjcra...
victoriafoodscene
24 likes • 1.7K views

🍽️ Food is a must-try

Don't skip the food! The pub fare, like wings and flatbreads, is highly praised. Reddit

☀️ Patio vibes

Enjoy the outdoor seating on sunny days; it's a pleasant spot for a relaxed afternoon. Reddit

Smashed some epic XC trails with the relentless @cinmabes at Hartland to end a wicked week. Finished off by refreshments @c12beer Tested the latest Pivot Switchblade demo provided by @trekprocity. What a Swiss Army knife of a bike. Climbing, descents and handling exceeded expectations. #trekprocity #pivotcycles #category12brewing #getoutsideandrideyourbike #hartland
steve_the_husky
22 likes • 456 views

Tips

from all over the internet

✈️ Plan your route

Consider visiting on your way into Victoria from the ferry for a convenient stop. Reddit

🍺 Sample before you commit

Ask for tasters to find your perfect brew; flights are also available. Reddit

🍽️ Food is a must-try

Don't skip the food! The pub fare, like wings and flatbreads, is highly praised. Reddit

☀️ Patio vibes

Enjoy the outdoor seating on sunny days; it's a pleasant spot for a relaxed afternoon. Reddit

♻️ Sustainable sips

Appreciate their commitment to local sourcing and repurposing spent hops for farmers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(342 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Category 12 Brewing is widely praised for its innovative craft beers and surprisingly delicious pub fare, creating a unique 'Outer Space' themed experience. While many commend the friendly staff and local focus, some recent reviews mention inconsistent service. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.

"Rolled in for something to eat. It is safe to say, we were impressed. We got the Wings and the Cajun spuds. We ordered the Raspberry Vanilla Sour and the Ion Drift with our meals…. And let me tell ya, they were amazing brews. Unexplainable really. We ended up buying a pack of each when we left, and are probably going to buy more before we leave the province.

Very reasonably priced and the in house brews along with the food and friendly service made this review get 5 stars. They also let us taste test before we purchased drinks.

We liked that it was “Outter Space” related, Great establishment !!"

Chonah

"Couples looking to sneak away for a lunch experience are well served on the South Island. The silver lining of rapid growth in Victoria is quality restaurants popping up all over & discovered where you least expect them. On Keating X-Road, Adriana’s was a bit of an oasis in a culinary desert (think: strip malls), but now Category 12 Brewing has opened a unique new kitchen. This brew pub seems to bring together people who love brewing beer with a seasoned chef who makes delicious food; a perfect pairing. Comfy, welcoming space, unreal selection of beers (including flights) and super friendly staff. Apparently Category 12 is 100% Island run, supports local producers and their spent hops go to Island farmers. Highly recommend for an easy going afternoon out… and my wife says the bread pudding with a generous dollop of ice cream made her do the happy dance in her seat."

Paul Coppard

"Greaat. Beer great flat bread great service. The outdoor seating is really pleasant on these beautiful sunny days. The seasonal food menu keeps things really fresh as does some of the rotating taps I mean they always have the tried and true but it's a great time all in all. Always updating beer and food options, so good."

Andrew Aitchison

What People Like

Creative and experimental beers
Delicious pub food
Unique 'Outer Space' theme

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service (recent)
Long wait times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Category 12 Brewing is located on Keating X-Road. While it's not directly downtown, it's accessible by car or taxi. Some visitors suggest stopping by on the way into town if arriving via BC Ferries, as it's conveniently located. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the brewery, including space for their patio which is set up in the parking lot. Instagram

Absolutely! Category 12 Brewing is a great stop for a relaxed afternoon out, especially if you're exploring the surrounding areas or looking for a unique culinary experience outside the immediate downtown core. Reddit

Public transportation options might be limited depending on your starting point. Taxis or rideshare services are a reliable option from downtown Victoria. Reddit

The brewery generally offers a comfortable and welcoming space. The patio is accessible, and the indoor taproom is designed for ease of movement. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Category 12 Brewing does not require tickets for entry. It operates as a brewpub where you can walk in and order food and drinks. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information. They are generally open on weekdays and weekends. Instagram

While reservations might not always be necessary, especially on weekdays, it's a good idea to call ahead if you have a larger group or are visiting during a busy period. Reddit

There is no admission fee to enter the taproom or enjoy the patio at Category 12 Brewing. You pay for the food and beverages you consume. Reddit

Category 12 Brewing often hosts special events and releases new experimental beers. Following their social media is the best way to stay informed about these. Instagram

🎫 🍺 Beer & Drinks

Category 12 Brewing is known for its creative and experimental brews, including sours, stouts, lagers, and IPAs. They always have tried-and-true options alongside rotating taps. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can absolutely taste test before purchasing! They offer tasters and flights, allowing you to sample a variety of their unique offerings. Reddit

While their focus is on craft beer, it's always worth asking about any non-alcoholic beverages they might have available, such as sodas or perhaps a non-alcoholic beer option. Reddit

The Salted Lime Lager is described as perfect for a hot day, offering a refreshing and crisp taste. Instagram

Yes, Category 12 Brewing is proudly 100% Island-run, emphasizing local ingredients and production. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Category 12 Brewing offers a surprisingly delicious pub fare menu, including highly recommended wings, flatbreads, and Cajun spuds. They also feature seasonal food menus. InstagramReddit

The menu often includes items like flatbreads that can be customized. It's best to inquire with the staff about specific vegetarian or vegan options available. Reddit

Many reviewers find the food to be reasonably priced, especially considering the quality and the overall experience. Reddit

Yes, they have been known to serve delicious desserts, with the bread pudding with ice cream receiving special mention. Reddit

It's possible to get food to go, especially if you're picking up beer. Inquire with the staff about their to-go options for food items. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique 'Outer Space' themed decor, the vibrant colors of the craft beers, and the inviting atmosphere of the taproom and patio. The beer cans themselves can also be visually interesting. InstagramReddit

The 'Outer Space' theme offers a fun backdrop. The patio area on a sunny day also provides great natural light and a relaxed setting for photos. Reddit

Absolutely! The craft beers and the well-presented food are popular subjects for photos. Don't forget to capture the unique beer labels and can art. Instagram

It's always best practice to be mindful of other patrons' privacy. If you want to include people in your photos, it's polite to ask for their permission first. Reddit

The indoor taproom has ambient lighting, while the patio offers natural daylight, which is generally ideal for photography. Reddit

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