Next to the shelves with hundreds of beers there is a spot we like best: the bartender's shelf. That is where the beers land that the staff want to tell guests about. Stronger, rarer and the kind that stay in your memory. Today we show three dark styles from our shelf.
What is the bartender's shelf?
It is a subjective selection by the people who try and recommend beers every day. Usually these are new releases, limited batches, re-editions or beers with a distinctive taste. The selection changes, so what you see with us today may be different next week.
Imperial stout: black, thick, coffee-like
Imperial stout is the strong version of classic stout. It has an intense taste of roasted malt, chocolate and coffee, often with a hint of dried fruit. It usually has a few percent more alcohol than a regular stout, so it is drunk slowly, in small sips.
The photo shows two re-editions of the Raisa beer: the classic imperial stout and the espresso version. Espresso imperial stout adds coffee, so the aroma is even more roasted and slightly bitter.
Baltic porter: dark but smooth
Baltic porter is a style from the Baltic Sea region. It is usually bottom-fermented, like a lager, so it is smoother and less fruity than an English porter. It has notes of caramel, chocolate, plums and delicate coffee. The version from our shelf has 8.7% alcohol.
How to drink strong dark beers?
- Not too cold: around 10–12°C. Too low a temperature hides the aromas.
- In a stemmed glass or tulip: it concentrates the aroma and the head lasts longer.
- Slowly: at over 8% this is a beer for a longer evening, not for a single glass.
- With dessert or cheese: stout goes with chocolate, cheesecake and blue cheese.
Where to try them in Warsaw?
Ask the staff about the bartender's shelf in one of our venues: Konstruktorska in Mokotów, Wilanów in ALTO or Galeria Północna in Białołęka. The offer changes, so call or check the venue profile to be sure. You will also find more about choosing beer in our guide to beer styles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the bartender's shelf?
It is a selection of beers recommended by the staff: new releases, limited batches and beers with a distinctive character. The selection changes all the time.
How is imperial stout different from regular stout?
Imperial stout is stronger, thicker and more intense in taste. It has more roasted malt, chocolate and coffee notes and usually a higher alcohol content.
Is Baltic porter strong?
Usually yes. Baltic porter often has 7–9% alcohol. The version in the photo has 8.7%, so drink it slowly.
Are beers from the bartender's shelf always available?
No. These are often limited batches and re-editions, so availability depends on the venue and the day. Ask the staff or call before your visit.
Alcohol is for adults only. Drink responsibly.
