Hansens Brauerei

In 1990, a visionary named Franz-Dieter Weiß had a dream. He wanted to create a unique dining experience, a place where the art of brewing met culinary excellence. This dream took shape as Hansens Brauerei, originally located at Nordermarkt in Flensburg. His vision was simple: to combine the culinary arts of cooking and service with the craft of brewing, all under one roof. This innovative concept gave birth to Germany’s northernmost brewpub and craft beer microbrewery. Hansens Brauerei quickly became the heart of craft beer in Flensburg. The brewery’s success at Nordermarkt, with its handcrafted beers and delicious cuisine, called for a larger space. In the summer of 2000, Hansens Brauerei found its new home at Schiffbrücke 16, right on Flensburg’s harbor. This historic building, formerly the Sonnberg Rum House, is the oldest rum house in Flensburg. It has stood on this site since the 18th century, a silent witness to Flensburg’s rich maritime and trading history. With meticulous care and attention to detail, the building was renovated in close collaboration with preservationists, using original plans as a guide. The result is a charming blend of old and new, a testament to the brewery’s respect for its heritage. Today, Hansens Brauerei occupies this remarkable building. The steep pitched roof and the plastered façade facing the street hint at the building’s age. The current entrance on the left side was once a carriage entrance, above which sat a loading door with a small gable and crane arm. The right side of the building was residential, its rounded arched entrance still boasting an original carved door and knocker. Inside, remnants of the 18th-century doors in the basement area whisper tales of the past. Outside, on the Neue Straße side, you can still see the faded “Sonnenberg” lettering, a ghostly reminder of the rum house that once thrived here. Today, Hansens Brauerei brews a variety of beers year-round, including their signature Pilsener and Schwarzbier, both at around 5% alcohol content. Seasonal brews add to the excitement, with special offerings like the Regatta Beer for the Rum Regatta and the Maibock in spring. Hansens Brauerei isn’t just a brewery. It’s a testament to Flensburg’s vibrant past and its dynamic present. It’s a place where the aroma of freshly brewed beer mingles with the savory scents from the kitchen, where history and modernity intertwine, creating a truly unique experience.