Gyopo Brewery: Fresh Craft Makgeolli in Little Portugal

The moment you step into Gyopo Brewery on Dundas West, it feels like you've been transported to a hip pocha (street food tent) in Seoul, infused with a trendy Toronto vibe. The smoky, mouth-watering aroma of LA galbi grilling over charcoal in the open kitchen fills the air. However, the real star of the show here is deliciously fermenting away in their basement brewery.

Gyopo Brewery is Toronto's first-ever craft makgeolli brewery. Founded by brothers Hansang and Juwon Lee, alongside head brewer Dohyun Kim, this space—as its name ('Gyopo,' meaning Korean diaspora) suggests—deeply reflects the identity of Koreans living abroad. When I chatted with the team at the shop, I could truly feel their passion for reconnecting with their roots and sharing Korean culture more broadly. They brew their creamy, sweet-and-sour, magical makgeolli right on site!

• Vibe: Watch as the bartender pulls milky, sparkling makgeolli right from a draft tap. The moment the makgeolli, served in a cold metal bowl, touches your lips, it delivers a clean, refreshing finish that perfectly cuts through the deep umami of traditional jang (fermented paste) based dishes.
• Pro Tip: Be sure to order the 'Superdry' draft makgeolli. It goes down as crisply as a craft beer while retaining the subtle sweetness characteristic of traditional rice wine.
• Contact: 1456 Dundas St. W. | Website: gyopobrewery.com | Instagram: @gyopo_brewery_