If you’ve ever been to Manila, you know that Filipinos love to drink beer. Not only do they have some awesome commercial beer, but they’ve also got some great local craft beer! Although some may say that they are pricey, it really depends on where you buy them, and how much you’re willing to spend to indulge in an awesome experience. (Any of these will go well with my top 5 recommended burgers.)

Now, I haven’t tried all of the available local craft beers out there because there are just too many; but I have tried a good number of them and these are my top 5 recommended ones. (The prices below may vary depending on where you buy them from.)

My Top 5 Recommended Local Craft Beers

5. Katipunan Craft Indio Pale Ale

ABV (alcohol by volume) : 4.8%

Price (330ml) : Php135

With a medium sweet and light bitter taste, this is the local craft beer that I’d order if the next four weren’t available. I’ve seen this at several places and stores. If you see it, be sure to grab one and try it out.

4. Joe’s Brew Sierra Madre Wheat Ale

ABV (alcohol by volume) : 4.3%

Price(330ml) : Php165

This wheat ale made it onto the list because of its nice and smooth taste that is good for anyone who likes beer. If you aren’t into dark beer, this beer is one that you should try.

It has nice floral and fruity flavors, similar to others on this list. Try it and you’ll understand why this is a good and tasty beer for any day.

3. Pedro Endless Summer Wheat Ale

ABV (alcohol by volume) : 5.0%

Price (330ml) : Php250

I just saw this on the shelf at FowlBread in BGC and decided to bring one home. I am a fan of wheat ale, and out of all of the ones I’ve tried, this Pedro wheat ale hit the spot. I will never take this off my list. They also have some other beers that I hear are pretty good (check them out on their website). I have yet to taste the others, though; so let me know which one you like best in the comments or which one I should try next!

2. Craftpoint Summer Passion Ale

ABV (alcohol by volume) : 5.5%

Price (330ml) : Php140

As the name of this beer suggests, and with its tangy, gingery, passionfruit taste; it is the perfect match for any summer day. If you’re like me, though, it can be for any day of the year. I first tried this at South on South in BF Homes, Paranaque; but you can also get this beer at The Grid Food Market (Rockwell, Makati), The Bottle Shop, or if you’re in La Union, you can get some seasonal releases at Curious Creatures. They also sell it at a number of restaurants and bars around Metro Manila.

1. Engkanto IPA

ABV (alcohol by volume) : 7%

Price (330ml) : Php170

I first had Engkanto at the opening of 8 Cuts Burger Blends in Greenbelt, Makati. To be honest, there’s not much to say about Engkanto other than that it’s probably one of the best beers that I’ve had to date. I love the flavors. The somewhat bitter taste with a touch of citrus is both relaxing and enjoyable. I’ve tried all of Engkanto beers, but the IPA is my favorite. The flavors are soothing and couldn’t be any better. Every time I go to a place that has Engkanto, it’s what I order. Kudos to the Engkanto guys who are continually creating magic in a bottle.

Which local Philippine craft beers have you tried? Which is your favorite? Hit us up in the comments and share this article if you’re a beer lover.