New Matuška-helmed brewery and taproom opens in Karlín

Dva Kohouti (Two Cocks) an Ambiente venture, promises the highest quality beer housed in a stylish space with an outdoor patio in the courtyard. The brewery serves light bites and is open until late; DJ sets will add to the casual atmosphere, a departure from the more traditional and upscale restaurants the Ambiente group is known for.

The news is also welcome in Karlín, a district lacking late-night options.

“The idea came about a year ago when Adam was thinking about what to do with their old family brewery. At that time, we were together in Denver at the American Craft Festival, and it occurred to me that Adam could call [Ambiente founder] Tomáš Karpíška,” Svoboda said in a press release.

“Denver called Prague and it all started,” Matuška added.

Matuška transferred unused equipment from the family brewery in Broumy to Prague, adjusting and rebuilding it to fit the historic space, the Hamburg City House, an important public house at the beginning of the 19th century. The building is also home to a Lokál restaurant; Grils, an Ambiente rotisserie joint is located around the corner.

The brewery’s founders say brewer Lukáš Tomsa will be crafting a twelve-step Pilsen-type lager in the 10-hob brewery. Svoboda: “We aim to bring together the craft of brewing and pouring the perfect draught.”

“The basis is Czech malt and hops from Žatec. Beer has about 4.9% alcohol and 40 units of bitterness,” Tomsa says.

Beer will be brewed in the morning with bartenders opening the taps in the afternoon.

The local lager will be complemented by Matuška as well as other microbrews.

The pub is a part of the brewery, which used to house a former auto mechanic’s workshop and still retains some of its original appearance including exposed walls. The concrete bar is designed by Olgoj Chorchoj.