In this episode, we dive into the vibrant craft beer scene of Vietnam with Loc Truong, founder of East West Brewing, and Patrick Barnes, the head brewer. East West Brewing, based in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), is a leading force in the country’s rapidly growing craft beer movement. Founded in 2017, East West Brewing has become a cornerstone of the Vietnamese craft beer industry, known for its innovative brewing techniques and commitment to quality. Loc shares the story behind starting East West Brewing, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges of establishing a premium craft brewery in a market dominated by large macro brands like Heineken and Tiger. We discuss the brewery's strategic approach to creating a sophisticated taproom experience that goes beyond beer, integrating high-quality food pairings to elevate the overall experience. Patrick, who brings years of brewing experience from renowned U.S. breweries like Sierra Nevada, discusses the unique brewing environment in Vietnam. He explains how the team at East West is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in craft beer, experimenting with everything from hoppy IPAs to barrel-aged stouts and sours. They also touch on the importance of educating both their Vietnamese staff and customers, ensuring that craft beer culture continues to grow in Vietnam. We also explore the broader beer market in Vietnam, the logistics of beer distribution in a tropical climate, and the potential for Vietnamese craft beer to make an impact on the global stage. With their second taproom recently opened in Da Nang, East West Brewing is poised for exciting growth, and this episode offers an inside look at their journey. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or just curious about Vietnam's emerging beer scene, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode!