Palermo: Craft beer tasting with food samples at High Hops

Looking for a relaxed, flavorful way to spend a couple of hours in Palermo? This craft beer tasting experience at High Hops offers just that—an engaging blend of local brews, tasty Sicilian bites, and a splash of artistic ambiance. It’s perfect for anyone curious about Sicily’s burgeoning craft beer scene or wanting a casual, cultural outing.

What really makes this tour stand out are its quality local products—the salumi and cheeses are top-notch, giving your taste buds a true taste of Sicily. Plus, the music and art exhibitions add a unique vibe that turns a simple tasting into a memorable experience. One thing to note is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan how to get there comfortably.

If you enjoy discovering local flavors paired with a lively atmosphere, this tour could be a highlight of your Palermo trip. It’s especially suited for those who like a small, intimate group—limited to 10 participants—and appreciate a good mix of food, drink, and art without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Taste three distinct craft beers paired with Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses.
• Enjoy a relaxed, intimate group setting limited to 10 people, ideal for a personal experience.
• Experience local art through murals and temporary exhibitions inside the pub.
• Listen to international music while sampling the drinks and bites.
• Learn from friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and fun.
• No transportation included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at High Hops in Palermo

This tour introduces you to High Hops, a lively pub with a creative atmosphere. It’s not just about drinking—it’s about experiencing a slice of Palermo’s craft beer culture alongside local foods and art. The venue itself is eye-catching, featuring murals by a Sicilian artist on permanent display, and it also hosts exhibitions by emerging artists like photographers and painters, which adds an extra layer of interest.

The tasting session is crafted to awaken your palate gradually. It begins with a low fermentation beer intended to prepare your taste buds, then moves to a hoppy beer that’s fresh and lively, accompanied by a platter of Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses. For the third beer, expect something more malty and complex, giving you a well-rounded sampling of what local craft brewers are creating.

This isn’t just a drinking tour; it’s a cultural experience. You’ll hear international music that complements the vibrant, artistic vibe of the space, making it a fun, multi-sensory outing.

The Tasting Details

For €41 per person, you’ll get a guided beer tasting that includes three types of craft beer. The food pairing features a generous platter of local salumi, cheeses, and fried gnocco, which adds a delightful crispy texture next to the rich flavors of the cured meats and cheeses. The tasting lasts around 2 hours, with check availability for start times—so you can pick a slot that fits your schedule.

The experience is designed to be comfortable and engaging. Inside, the small groups—capped at 10—allow for personalized attention and lively conversations. The venue is accessible by public transport, which makes it easy to reach without a car. Vegetarian options are available if you inform the organizers ahead of time, although the main focus is on traditional Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers rave about the friendliness of the staff, the quality of the products, and the cozy, artistic setting. One reviewer mentioned, “Great experience, friendly owners and quality products,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the authentic vibe. Another appreciated the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, noting that they learned how to tap beer, which adds a fun, interactive element.

The artwork and murals inside are also a highlight, making the experience more than just a tasting. As one traveler put it, “The murals and art exhibitions make this place a very particular and well-kept location,” which adds charm and conversation starters.

The Experience: A Deep Dive

Walking into High Hops, you’re immediately greeted by a warm, creative atmosphere. The walls showcase intriguing murals, and the small exhibition space hosts rotating art displays—an unexpected bonus for a beer tasting. The staff is friendly and eager to share their passion for craft beer and local products, making the experience feel personal rather than commercial.

The tasting begins with a low fermentation beer, designed to gently prepare your palate. This first sip is light and subtly nuanced, setting a mellow tone. As the guide explains the different styles, you start to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each brew—something you might find particularly appealing if you’re interested in beer quality and production.

The second beer, a hoppy selection, is lively and aromatic, paired with a platter of Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses. The meats and cheeses are fresh, flavorful, and authentically Sicilian—a true highlight for lovers of regional cuisine. The fried gnocco adds a crispy contrast that balances the richness of the cold cuts.

Finally, the third beer is more complex, maltier, and deeper in flavor, providing a satisfying finish to the tasting. Throughout, the guides are knowledgeable but relaxed, sharing tips like how to properly tap a beer, which adds an interactive element.

Guests consistently praise the value for money—for just over $40, you get a quality tasting experience paired with cultural and artistic insights. The combination of music, art, and good company creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel comfortable.

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Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adults who appreciate good beer, local flavors, and a touch of art. It suits those looking for a casual, social outing rather than a formal wine or food tour. While not suitable for children under 18, it’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to meet people and explore Palermo’s craft beer scene in a relaxed setting.

It’s also a good choice for culture lovers—the murals and exhibitions keep the environment lively and visually engaging. If you’re interested in learning about Sicilian products in a friendly environment, this tour offers a laid-back, insightful experience.

Final Thoughts

This craft beer tasting at High Hops offers a well-rounded glimpse into Palermo’s local brewing scene, paired with authentic Sicilian food and a dose of art. The small group setting makes it intimate and engaging, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you leave with a better understanding—and maybe a new favorite beer.

The experience strikes a nice balance between tasting, learning, and enjoying the ambiance. It’s a great option if you want something different from traditional tours—something more casual, creative, and flavorful.

For travelers who love discovering local eats and drinks, appreciating street art, and enjoying a lively atmosphere, this tour is a worthy add-on to your Palermo itinerary. Just remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly and be aware that it’s not suitable for minors or those with food allergies.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the venue is not included. You’ll need to plan how to get there using public transport or other means.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance, so inform the organizers if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts approximately 2 hours, with start times subject to availability.

Is it suitable for children?
No, this experience is designed for adults aged 18 and over, as it involves alcohol tasting.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is accessible for wheelchair users.

This tour provides a relaxed, authentic taste of Palermo’s craft beer scene paired with local food and art. It’s best suited for adults seeking a fun, low-pressure way to sample regional flavors and enjoy a lively, artistic environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: