During a past phase of my life, I co-ran a beer blog alongside Daniel Primack, which sparked a deep interest in beer brewing. Although my enthusiasm for writing about beer has waned, I still hold a fondness for it, especially for The Kernel brewery in Bermondsey.
The Kernel produces exceptional beers that stand out for their unique qualities. Whenever “Kernel” appears on a menu at a restaurant, I can’t resist trying a beer from them, and I often purchase their offerings from retail.
On my recent visit to their taproom—the first time experiencing it since its opening in August— I found it to be a welcoming venue. Located in Bermondsey, it’s just a short distance from the railway arches that house several of the UK’s top craft breweries. The taproom boasts a kitchen residency featuring Yagi Izakaya, known for its delightful Japanese-inspired comfort food. We sampled various dishes that were both inventive and reasonably priced.
Despite the bustling atmosphere on a Saturday afternoon, we managed to find seating at a large communal table without waiting in line at the bar. The vibrant buzz of the place fostered engaging conversations with fellow patrons, and as the rain poured outside, we enjoyed our time tasting a range of around six different beers.
While many in the UK have a strong preference for drinking pints, I believe these beers are better savored in smaller servings. The Kernel serves its beers in elegant glasses that accommodate two-thirds of a pint, or as smaller portions if desired.
Their selection is extensive, featuring high-quality craft beers. What particularly stands out are their approachable table beers, flavorful pale ales, and hoppy IPAs. Most beers are kegged, with a couple available from cask—both exceptional in their own right. The Kernel does an amazing job of pushing the boundaries in craft beer while favoring modern techniques over traditional cask conditioning.
There’s a remarkable charm to this brewery. The prices are surprisingly affordable given the quality of their offerings, making it a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast.
For more details about the brewery, visit The Kernel Brewery.