Brews & Bites
Gilroy’s Brewery: The Johannesburg Craft Beer Classic Pouring New Stories
A New Chapter For A South African Icon
If you have been around Johannesburg long enough, you will know that Gilroy’s is not just a brewery. It feels less like a business and more like a character. Warm, witty, and full of its own charm. An unmistakably South African brewery shaped by years of stories, loyal regulars, and the kind of personality that makes people feel instantly at home.
What began as one man’s attempt to make a drinkable pint in 1970 has become one of the most beloved names in South African craft beer culture. And now it lives again, in a revived home in Rivonia, thanks to a rescue story almost as spirited as the ale itself.
Where It All Began
The story starts with Steve Gilroy, who arrived in South Africa in 1970 and promptly decided the local beer was not for him. So he brewed his own. His small home project grew until it could no longer hide in a factory corner, and in 2000 Gilroy’s officially opened its doors.
By 2008, the brewery was thriving in Muldersdrift. It picked up awards, including the Daily Telegraph’s Best of British Pub in the World. The crowds were loyal, the weekends were full, and Gilroy’s voice was as famous as the beer.
But Muldersdrift changed. Then came the lockdown years, which delivered a blow to many businesses and breweries. Gilroy’s nearly became another casualty. Steve announced that he was closing the doors for good.
The Revival Of A Legend
This is where the story turns heroic. Enter Hannes Greyling, described by the brewery as a Celtic Afrikaans marauder with a flair for dramatic conviction. When he heard about the closure, he shouted the words that would rewrite Gilroy’s destiny. No. Gilroy’s is legendary. It will not die.
He bought the brewery and, together with Steve, set out to rebuild it. That journey took him across Gauteng until he landed in Rivonia, where he found what he believed was a sign. A large jug of ale in a shop window. It felt right. It became home.
And just like that, Gilroy’s rose again.
Welcome To The New Gilroy’s
The new space at Rivonia Crossing blends everything long-time fans love about Gilroy’s while offering a setting that invites newcomers too. There is a lively pub atmosphere, live music, hearty food, shaded beer garden tables under majestic trees, and of course, the brewery itself.
The team calls it home. Regulars call it a comeback. Either way, it is unmistakably Gilroy’s, loud and hilarious and full of character.
The Beers That Built The Legacy
Gilroy’s is known for its handcrafted ales, made with kilned malted barley, locally sourced hops, and a yeast that the team has always described as majestic. Each beer follows natural brewing methods without preservatives and is lightly carbonated to keep it gentle on the stomach.
Image 1: Facebook/Gilroy’s Brewery
Gilroy Traditional
A Red Irish Ale that dances on the tongue. Classic, malty, and one of the originals.
Gilroy Serious
A dark and rich Old- or Porter-style ale. This beer even appears in the James Bond novel Carte Blanche. That alone gives it bragging rights.
Gilroy Favourite
A pale ale made elegant with a touch of fynbos honey. Smooth, easy drinking, and loved for its floral character.
Gilroy Premium Lager
A handcrafted lager allowed to mature in nature’s own time, creating a clean and naturally finished flavour.
Why Joburg Still Loves Gilroy’s
In a city where restaurants and bars come and go, Gilroy’s has outlasted trends because it has always been a place to escape the rush. It is the kind of pub where strangers become friends, live music fills the air, and the beer tastes like someone cared about every part of its creation.
When news broke years ago that it might close forever, Joburgers reacted with genuine sadness. Now that it stands again in Rivonia, the mood is different. People are excited. Nostalgic. Curious. Proud.
The brewery likes to say that life is better after a couple of Gilroy pints. Many would agree.
Gilroy’s is more than a revived brewery. It is a tribute to passion, community, and the idea that some local legends deserve a second life. Whether you go for the Red Irish Ale, the live music, or the storytelling, the message remains simple.
Let us go to Gilroy’s.
Also read: Dough & co. Parktown North: Fresh Pastries and Coffee That Keep Joburg Coming Back
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Source: gilroys brewery
Featured Image: Facebook/Gilroy’s Brewery
