Mountain Culture Emu Plains

Since opening in Katoomba in 2019, Mountain Culture Beer Co has become one of the state’s most in-demand breweries. To meet that escalating demand, owners DJ and Harriet McReady opened this sprawling site to ramp up production of its cult-status hazy beers.

But "the factory" also doubles as a brewpub, and you’ll find anything from a 10 per cent Russian imperial stout to a traditional German lager pouring at the bar. And, of course, there's a rotating line-up of Mountain Culture’s celebrated hazy styles on offer, including the Status Quo pale ale and a bunch of limited releases. For those who want to sample the range, there are paddles of four.

In the garden, which is dotted with picnic tables and umbrellas, a food truck serves woodfire pizzas made on-site. The Swine and Pine is recommended; a Hawaiian inspired number made with honey-roasted ham, 12-hour-smoked brisket, house-made sauce and pineapple. On weekends a second food truck often rolls in. Otherwise, grab a spot on the mezzanine inside and watch the state-of-the-art brewing facility in action.