The Altes Tramdepot buildin was originally used to...

The Altes Tramdepot buildin was originally used to store tram cars, but has since been repurposed into a restaurant, cafe and tourism shop. There is a convenient pay parking lot just north across the street, and public transportation is a good option too. Just next door is the famous Barengraben outdoor exhibit of Bern s eponymous animals. The beloved live bears are a notable tourist attraction, and there is a nice walkway down to the bank of the Aare River. The Altes Tramdepot Brauerei & Restaurant has a two-sided wooden bar immediately inside. The bar has about 20 wooden stools, and in the center behind the bar is their open brewhouse, which consists of two shiny copper brewing vessels on a brick mezzanine. The high gabled wood beam ceiling overhead is a pretty sight, and hanging chalkboards list their 5 house beers on tap. The several short stainless steel fermenters and stacks of horizontal bright tanks are visible downstairs through a windowed wall. The size of the brewery indicates a steady stream of customers. I was impressed at the excellent quality of their beer, which is available by sampler flight or full pour. My favorite was their seasonal Milk Stout, but their year-round core beers are very good too. Past the bar area is the windowed kitchen on the left and a large dining area on the right. Their full service kitchen offers a typical brewpub restaurant menu, and they pride themselves on their Flammkuchen flatbreads. Outside is a scenic patio area with plenty of tables overlooking the River to Bern. The staff is welcoming, prompt, and very helpful. This brewpub has a great atmosphere, good service and tasting beer. I consider it a must-visit locale in Bern!