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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

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

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Category 12 Brewing can be a fun stop for families, especially during weekday afternoons when it's less crowded. The 'Outer Space' theme might appeal to younger visitors, and the availability of outdoor seating on the patio offers a relaxed environment. While the focus is on craft beer, inquire about any non-alcoholic drink options for kids. The pub fare, like wings and flatbreads, is generally kid-friendly. Reddit

It's advisable to visit during off-peak hours to ensure a more comfortable experience for children. The staff are generally friendly, and the casual atmosphere makes it easier to manage with kids in tow. Reddit

🍻 Craft Beer Aficionados

For serious craft beer lovers, Category 12 is a must-visit destination. Their dedication to experimental brews, rotating taps, and unique flavor profiles like the 'Nitro Deviation' and 'Raspberry Vanilla Sour' will not disappoint. Take advantage of the tasters and flights to sample their diverse range. InstagramReddit+1

Don't overlook the food menu, as it's designed to complement the beers perfectly. The brewery's commitment to being 100% Island-run and supporting local producers adds to its appeal for those who appreciate local craft. Reddit

couples looking for a unique date

Category 12 Brewing offers a relaxed and unique atmosphere perfect for a date. The 'Outer Space' theme adds a fun talking point, and the delicious food and diverse beer selection provide plenty of options to enjoy together. Reddit Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon for a more intimate experience, or enjoy the patio on a sunny weekend. Reddit

Sharing a flight of beers and trying a few of their signature dishes, like the flatbreads or wings, makes for a delightful culinary adventure. The friendly staff contribute to the welcoming ambiance, making it easy to unwind and connect. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Craft Beer at Category 12

Category 12 Brewing is renowned for its commitment to crafting unique and experimental beers. They consistently push the boundaries with their flavor profiles, offering everything from rich, creamy stouts like the 'Nitro Deviation' to refreshing sours and crisp lagers. Visitors often highlight the exciting variety and the opportunity to discover something new with each visit. The brewery is also known for its rotating taps, ensuring there's always a fresh selection to explore. Instagram+1

Beyond the standard offerings, Category 12 embraces creativity with seasonal releases and experimental batches. This dedication to innovation means you might find beers with unexpected ingredients or flavor combinations. The 'Raspberry Vanilla Sour' and 'Ion Drift' have been specifically praised for their unique and delicious profiles. Reddit This adventurous approach to brewing makes Category 12 a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast looking for more than just the ordinary. Reddit

Furthermore, the brewery's commitment to being 100% Island-run adds another layer to their appeal. They actively support local producers and even find sustainable uses for their spent hops, donating them to local farmers. This focus on community and sustainability is woven into the fabric of their operation, making each sip feel like a contribution to the local economy and environment. Reddit

Beyond the Brew: Culinary Delights

While Category 12 Brewing is celebrated for its beer, its culinary offerings are equally impressive and often exceed expectations for a brewpub. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and taste of the food, noting that it's a perfect pairing with their extensive beer selection. Popular items include crispy wings, flavorful flatbreads, and unique sides like Cajun spuds. Reddit The kitchen also focuses on seasonal menus, ensuring that the food remains fresh and exciting throughout the year. Reddit

The food at Category 12 is described as delicious and reasonably priced, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or a more substantial meal. The bread pudding with ice cream has even been highlighted as a dessert that can make patrons 'do the happy dance.' Reddit This attention to detail in their food menu, combined with their innovative beers, creates a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Reddit

For couples looking for a unique lunch experience or anyone seeking a relaxed afternoon out, Category 12 offers a comfy and welcoming space. The friendly staff and the overall pleasant atmosphere contribute significantly to the positive dining experience. Reddit The combination of expertly crafted food and a diverse beer selection makes it a standout destination on the South Island. Reddit

The Category 12 Experience: Atmosphere and Service

Category 12 Brewing offers a unique and engaging atmosphere, partly due to its 'Outer Space' theme. This distinctive branding adds a fun and memorable element to the visitor experience, setting it apart from more conventional breweries. Reddit The brewery provides both a comfortable indoor taproom and a pleasant outdoor patio, which is particularly enjoyable on sunny days. InstagramReddit

While many visitors have consistently praised the friendly and cheerful staff, there have been some recent comments suggesting a decline in service quality, with some patrons experiencing longer wait times and less attentive service. Reddit However, the establishment's commitment to supporting local producers and its overall welcoming vibe continue to draw in visitors. Reddit

The brewery's location on Keating X-Road makes it a convenient stop, especially for those traveling from the ferry. It's a place where people who love brewing beer come together with a chef who makes delicious food, creating a perfect pairing and a highly recommended spot for an easy-going afternoon out. Reddit

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