Westside Ale Works

Tucked away on Alfred Street in South Melbourne, Westside Aleworks is a proudly independent craft brewery with its heart set to West Coast time. Founded by Casey Wagner in 2016, it quickly became a local favourite for hop-forward beers, bold flavours and a relaxed, warehouse-style taproom that hums with a community-first spirit. It is the kind of place where the tanks glint, the chatter carries, and the first sip sets an easy tempo.

In November 2024, a new chapter began as local owner Jonathan took the reins. The ethos remains unchanged: warm welcomes behind the roller door, pints poured with care, and a laid-back vibe that invites lingering. Expect bright, citrus-laced aromas and resinous notes from the taps, balanced by an atmosphere that is unpretentious and thoroughly South Melbourne.

To keep pace with the pints, the oven turns out characterful pizzas. The City of Angels nods to classic comfort with pepperoni and black olives, while Santa Barbara Chicken brings a lick of smoke and heat with a BBQ base, chicken, jalapeños, spring onion and a house spice rub. Extra toppings are there for the craving, vegan cheese keeps everyone in the round, and sauces like Napoli and BBQ wait in the wings.

Pull up a stool, grab a slice, and make yourself at home. The roller door is open, the beer is fresh, and the good times are already on tap.