Homemade Pizza School

Updated: October 11, 2023

Reading Time: 13 Minutes

Great Leap Brewery Pizza Review: Expert Insight on Flavor and Experience in China

Located in the heart of Beijing, China, Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub has garnered a reputation for its delicious handcrafted pizzas and unique beer. The brewery has managed to combine the best of American-style pizza with local Chinese flavors, creating an exciting dining experience for all those who venture in. Once inside, patrons are greeted by a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the ideal spot in the bustling metropolis to unwind with friends and family.

This Great Leap Brewery pizza review boasts a variety of savory options, with toppings that range from classics, like pepperoni and mushrooms, to surprises, such as fiery pickled chilies. Accompanying these scrumptious pies is an extensive selection of beers, a product of the brewery’s dedication to craft brewing and innovation. The brewpub offers a unique and immersive customer experience, as the beer and pizza selection are complemented by reasonable prices and happy hour options for those looking to indulge without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub in Beijing offers exceptional handcrafted pizzas and a diverse beer selection.
  • The welcoming atmosphere and extensive menu make it an ideal spot for relaxing with friends and family.
  • With fair prices and happy hour options, guests can enjoy great pizza and beer without breaking the bank.
great leap brewery pizza review

About Great Leap Brewery

Great Leap Brewing is a prominent craft brewery located in Beijing, China. Established in 2010 by Carl Setzer and Liu Fang, the brewery is known for its high-quality beer, combining traditional Chinese ingredients with modern brewing techniques. Over the years, it has gained a solid reputation in the craft beer industry and has significantly contributed to the growing beer culture in the city.

The brewery features several brewpubs in Beijing, such as the charming Brewpub #12 situated amidst the historic Hutongs. Another popular outlet is Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub, nestled in the bustling Chaoyang District. Apart from serving an extensive range of beer, the brewpub also offers delicious 16-inch New York-style pizzas, earning rave reviews for their pizza from both locals and tourists alike.

Great Leap Brewing constantly innovates and expands its offerings. In 2018, they opened GLB LIDO, a 30-tap taproom located at the Nuo Center in Jingtai Road, Chaoyang. The following year, the company began production at its new state-of-the-art brewery in Xiqing District, Tianjin, with an impressive 500,000hL per annum capacity.

The combination of pioneering brewing methods, a passion for quality, and a dedication to creating unique beer flavors has made Great Leap Brewing a distinguished name in the global craft beer scene. With its carefully crafted beer selection and scrumptious pizza, Great Leap Brewing continues to enhance its patrons’ experience and attract beer enthusiasts from all over the world to their establishment.

outside great leap brewery in beijing

Great Leap Brewery Pizza Review Choices

Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub is a popular spot in Beijing known for its delicious food and refreshing beverages. Among the extensive menu offerings, the pizza selections are particularly praised by customers.

The pizzas at Great Leap Brewing are New York-style with a perfect balance of crust, cheese, and toppings. The crust is expertly crafted, offering a sturdy base with just the right amount of chewiness. The use of high-quality mozzarella cheese gives each slice its distinct and delightful flavor.

A variety of classic toppings are available to cater to different tastes. From the ever-popular pepperoni and sausage, to varieties incorporating chicken and vegetable options. The diverse menu ensures that everyone can find a slice to enjoy. Some unique and intriguing flavor combinations can be found as well, featuring toppings such as Sichuan peppercorn and kale.

For those who love a little heat in their meal, the Spicy Sausage pizza is a standout favorite, loaded with flavorful sausage and complemented by a delectable, tangy sauce. Meanwhile, the Pesto Veggie option is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and savory pesto, making it an irresistible choice for vegetarians and veggie-lovers alike.

Exploring local flavors, Great Leap Brewing also offers the Little Nunzio pizza, which pairs traditional ingredients with a touch of Sichuan peppercorn for a unique and mildly spicy experience. The Mushroom and Peppers pizza is no ordinary creation either, as it features a medley of juicy mushrooms and fresh peppers atop a beautiful layer of cheese.

All in all, Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub provides an exemplary pizza selection for all tastes and preferences. It is no wonder that their New York-style pizzas continue to receive rave reviews from locals and travelers alike.

great leap brewery atmosphere

Beer Selections

At Great Leap Brewing, the beer selections effectively complement the delicious pizza. As a renowned brewery, they offer a diverse range of craft beers to satisfy the taste buds of all beer enthusiasts. The various beer styles available at Great Leap showcase a perfect balance between traditional and modern brewing techniques.

One of the flagship beers at Great Leap is their Honey Ma Gold, a unique blend of Sichuan peppercorns and honey, offering a refreshing taste with a subtle hint of spice. Apart from that, they also serve a Banana Wheat beer, with a mild fruity note that pairs well with a hot slice of pizza. For those who prefer lighter beers, the Iron Buddha Blonde is a great option, with delicate floral and citrus notes.

IPA fans will not be disappointed, as they can taste the rich and hoppy flavors in the brewery’s multiple IPA offerings. One notable IPA is the Hidden Noble, a smooth brew with a well-rounded, malty profile. For those who enjoy a darker, bolder beer, the East City Porter and The Brave Stout provide rich flavors with hints of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malts.

In summary, Great Leap Brewing offers an impressive selection of craft beers that cater to a variety of preferences. From light and fruity Banana Wheat to the robust, bold flavors of The Brave Stout, Great Leap ensures that there is a perfect brew for everyone to enjoy alongside their tasty New York-style pizza. The brewery’s confident and knowledgeable approach to beer and pizza pairing guarantees a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.

glass of little general ipa beer at great leap brewery in china

The Atmosphere and Ambience

As visitors step into Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub, they are immediately struck by its confident and stylish atmosphere. Situated in the bustling neighborhood of Xinyuan Jie, this pub offers an appealing combination of American and Chinese aesthetics which contribute to its unique ambiance.

Inside the brewpub, the art on the walls reflects the blend of two cultures and lends a vibrant air to the bar. The lighting is warm and inviting, setting the stage for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. From the bar to the rooftop, every area has its distinct charm, making it a popular gathering spot for locals and travelers alike.

Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub takes its beer garden experience to a higher level with its stunning rooftop location. Known for providing some of the best views of Beijing, the pleasant and open atmosphere allows patrons to unwind and savor their beers while taking in the surrounding cityscape.

While this location retains the same ambiance reminiscent of the #12 location, it offers up its unique twist with the addition of New York-style pizza. The aroma of pizza fills the air, enticing guests to partake in delicious pairings with their choice of beers.

The brewpub not only excels in providing a social space for its patrons but also accommodates their furry companions. Recognized as a dog-friendly establishment, it is the perfect place for pet owners to relax with their best friends by their side.

In conclusion, Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub’s distinctive atmosphere, coupled with its wide range of beers, quality food, and welcoming environment, make it an attractive destination for regulars and newcomers alike in the Xinyuan Jie neighborhood.

great leap brewery mural on the inside wall

Customer Experience

Customers visiting Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere accompanied by attentive service from the friendly staff. They strive to provide excellent customer service, ensuring that every detail is taken care of, allowing patrons to have an enjoyable time with friends and family.

The brewery prides itself on being a gathering place for both locals and travelers alike, offering a welcoming environment to the diverse community of customers. As an explorer in general, many people visit the brewpub seeking carefully crafted beers, delicious pizza, and a pleasant dining experience.

The Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub focuses on maintaining a high standard of quality, showcasing their dedication to producing both great food and drinks. The staff is knowledgeable about their menu, which enables them to provide helpful suggestions to customers who may be uncertain about which beers and pizzas to try.

Additionally, the brewpub is frequented by university students, who enjoy spending time in the cozy atmosphere while bonding with friends. They appreciate the varied selection of beers available and the delicious pizzas crafted using the perfect mix of art and science.

Overall, the customer experience at Great Leap Brewing #45 Brewpub is a testament to their commitment to providing patrons with exceptional service, high-quality food and beverages, and a memorable outing.

Prices and Happy Hour Options

Great Leap Brewing is known for its delicious pizza and craft beer. Their pricing offers good value for money, especially during their happy hour deals. With carefully crafted beers starting at ¥35 for a pint and tasty pizzas on the menu, Great Leap Brewing has been receiving positive reviews from satisfied customers.

Happy Hour at Great Leap Brewing presents an excellent opportunity for patrons to indulge in their favorite craft beers and pizzas at discounted prices. For instance, their signature East City Porter (5.2% ABV) can be enjoyed for just ¥45 during happy hour.

The pizza selection at Great Leap Brewing is praised by many as the best pizza in town. Some of their popular pizzas include:

The happy hour options extend beyond just pizzas and beer, as they also serve a test kitchen menu featuring Cantonese food and Charlie’s staples. The RMB 25 option has been cited by many as an affordable and satisfying choice during their visit to Great Leap Brewing.

When visiting Great Leap Brewing, guests can confidently expect a blend of quality cuisine, craft beer, and wallet-friendly prices during their happy hour. This balance has made it a popular destination for those seeking a great dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere.

Accessibility and Location

Great Leap Brewery’s Xinyuan Jie location offers an enjoyable dining experience for craft beer and pizza lovers in Beijing. Conveniently situated near the embassy district, the #45 location is easily accessible by taxi, public transportation, or foot.

The brewery’s founders, Liu Fang and Kin Hong, have a passion for crafting the perfect pizza to pair with their acclaimed beers. Great Leap Brewing’s expansion from its original hutongs location to the Xinzhong Jie #12 Brewpub and now Xinyuan Jie’s #45 Brewpub, showcases their dedication to quality and excellence.

Surrounded by an assortment of restaurants, Great Leap Brewery’s Xinyuan Jie location is an exciting destination for those looking to experience a lively dining atmosphere. It may also serve as a starting point for further exploration of the area, as it offers a diverse range of nearby dining options, ensuring that visitors have plenty of choices for their evening out.

Showcasing their tasty creations not only in the brewing process but also through their presence on Instagram, Liu Fang and Kin Hong keep their patrons updated on their latest menu and specials. This strong online presence allows the brewery to continually engage with its customers, providing regular updates on new menu items and events.

In addition to its reputation for excellent food, Great Leap Brewery has formed a partnership with Slow Boat, another popular brewery in the area. This collaboration shows the friendly competition and camaraderie among Beijing’s craft beer scene, making it an enjoyable and welcoming environment for both locals and tourists alike.

The Xinyuan Jie location of Great Leap Brewery offers not only a memorable culinary experience but also the opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant and rapidly evolving Beijing craft beer and food scene. This location’s accessibility, delicious food, and thriving neighborhood make it a must-visit destination for beer and pizza enthusiasts.

great leap brewery pizza review pepperoni

Other Menu Items

Besides their delicious pizza, Great Leap Brewery also offers a variety of other scrumptious menu items. Their selection covers everything from hand-crafted burgers to flavorful wings, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the noteworthy dishes at Great Leap Brewery is their hand-crafted burgers. These juicy, succulent burgers are made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. They are an excellent choice for those who prefer a more traditional pub grub while enjoying the brewery’s fantastic beer selection.

For patrons who love a bit of spice, the brewery’s wings are a must-try. These crispy, tender wings are drenched in a choice of savory sauces, ranging from tangy barbecue to fiery buffalo. The wings’ delightful juxtaposition of flavors will have you reaching for more.

For lighter fare, consider giving Great Leap Brewery’s tomato and peanut salad a shot. This refreshing dish combines sliced tomatoes and freshly roasted peanuts in a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. It’s an excellent palate cleanser that pairs well with the brewery’s beer.

In summary, Great Leap Brewery does not only excel in crafting incredible pizzas but also provides an array of other flavorful menu items that cater to various tastes. From hand-crafted burgers and sizzling wings to a light tomato and peanut salad, you’ll be spoiled for choice when dining at this fantastic establishment.

Special Mentions

Great Leap Brewing’s pizza menu has some remarkable varieties that are worth mentioning. A popular fusion pizza on their menu combines the best of two worlds: traditional Italian flavors and the enticing spices of Chinese cuisine. Featuring Sichuan peppercorns, this pizza adds a punch of spicy and numbing sensation to each bite, which pairs perfectly with their unique selection of craft beers.

Speaking of spices, Great Leap Brewing does not shy away from experimenting with bold, daring flavor combinations. One such creation is their spicy sausage pizza, adding a bit of a kick to a classic dish. This pizza is elevated by the fusion of traditional sausage and the unique gastronomy of Sichuan peppercorns.

For those who prefer something closer to home, Great Leap Brewing’s menu also includes American classics such as the Philadelphia pizza. This pie takes inspiration from the famous Philly cheesesteak sandwich and transforms it into a delicious pizza offering that is sure to satisfy any craving.

Not only does Great Leap Brewing have a diverse and creative pizza menu, but they also offer a relaxing ambiance with their rooftop seating area. This feature makes it an ideal spot for winding down on a Friday evening with friends, whispering conversations, and enjoying a cold brew alongside a scrumptious meal.

In addition to the exciting flavors and inviting atmosphere, Great Leap Brewing is also a dog-friendly establishment. Patrons can bring their furry friends along to share in the experience, making it a delightful destination for dog lovers.

Lastly, their menu caters to a variety of tastes, including options for those with specific dietary preferences such as peanuts. Great Leap Brewing’s dedication to crafting inventive pizzas while being an inclusive spot for all patrons sets them apart as a must-try destination.

great leap pizza under crust

Conclusion

Great Leap Brewing, with four brewpubs in Beijing, has made a significant impact on the craft beer scene in China. Not only are they well-known for their wide range of beers, but they have also managed to impress customers with their delicious pizza offerings.

The pizzeria, found at Great Leap Brewing’s #45 Brewpub, was developed with the help of Daniel Gutter, a pizza consultant from one of Philadelphia’s top pizza kitchens. The menu offers six classic pizza varieties, and the consensus is that it’s not just good; it may even be considered great.

Located in the heart of Beijing, Great Leap’s #45 Brewpub attracts both the city’s Western expatriate community and younger locals alike. The outdoor deck offers plenty of seating for customers to enjoy their craft beer and pizza. Moreover, visitors are sure to appreciate the impressive laser-cut steel map of Beijing found within the venue, which adds an artistic touch to the space.

When it comes to the food, numerous reviews on Tripadvisor reflect the satisfaction of the customers with both the beer and pizza selections. Given the quality of their pizzas, as well as their craft beers, Great Leap Brewing has successfully made a name for itself in China as a premier brewery and pizzeria.

great leap brewery stained glass

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best pizza options at Great Leap Brewery?

At Great Leap Brewery, there are a variety of pizza options available. These delicious choices were created with the help of Daniel Gutter, a pizza consultant from one of Philadelphia’s top pizza kitchens, and Kin Hong, who previously crafted their popular hamburgers. The menu consists of six classic pizzas, each with its unique flavor profile suitable for various tastes.

How does the crust taste in Great Leap Brewery’s pizzas?

Great Leap Brewery’s pizza crust is known for its flavorful and crispy texture, providing an excellent foundation for the delicious toppings.

Are there any unique topping combinations in Great Leap Brewery’s pizza menu?

While the menu at Great Leap Brewery primarily consists of classic pizzas, you can expect a few unique topping combinations that cater to both traditional and adventurous palates. Be sure to check their menu for seasonal or special offerings.

Do they offer vegetarian or vegan pizza choices at Great Leap Brewery?

Yes, Great Leap Brewery’s menu includes pizzas with vegetarian-friendly options. However, it is unclear if they have vegan pizza choices. It’s always a good idea to check with the staff or inquire about modifications to suit dietary preferences.

What’s the price range for pizzas at the Great Leap Brewery?

The price range for pizzas at Great Leap Brewery is considered affordable, falling in the middle category of $$ – $$$ on TripAdvisor. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the size and toppings selected.

Is Great Leap Brewery’s pizza suitable for sharing or individual servings?

Great Leap Brewery’s pizzas are generously sized, making them suitable for sharing among a group or ordered as individual servings, depending on the customer’s preference.

One of our Favorites

Wear your passion on your sleeve, or rather, your chest! A craft beer-themed t-shirt is the perfect attire for your homemade pizza night. Show your love for both pizza and artisanal brews in style. It’s a conversation starter, a nod to good taste, and a way to set the mood for a relaxed, enjoyable evening. Pair it with your favorite slice and savor the flavors of homemade goodness and craft beer camaraderie. Cheers to a perfect pizza night! 🍕🍻 #PizzaAndBeerNights

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Authors

DK & Eliana

DK & Eliana

Thanks for reading about our homemade pizza journey! We're a young married couple who started making pizza at home on our wedding night and haven't looked back yet. We've learned over countless attempts of trial and error how to make the perfect pizza sauce, pizza dough, and exactly which pizza accessories to buy for your home setup...

FYI When you make a purchase or, sometimes, carry out some other action as direct result of clicking on a link at Homemade Pizza School, we will receive a small commission. Gratzie!

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