Saldens Taphouse

Imagine a place where a passion for brewing meets fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere—that is Saldens Taphouse. Located in the heart of a city like Tula, this establishment has become a true mecca for craft beer lovers and culinary explorers throughout Russia.

Saldens Taphouse. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Founded in 2017 by Denis Salnikov, creator of the legendary Salden's Brewery, and chef Pavel Melgunov, the taproom embodies the fast casual concept. Here, guests are offered more than just drinks—it is a full immersion into the culture of artisanal brewing. This is where you can try the brand's most complete range, including the world-famous Tomato Gose, which has become the signature of Tula’s master brewers.

The establishment stands out for its innovative approach: hundreds of beer varieties and a thoughtful menu are united under one roof, where each dish is specifically designed to highlight the flavor of the drink. It is a modern space that attracts both sophisticated beer geeks and tourists looking for the authentic taste of modern Tula.

To check availability or book a table, you can use the establishment's official contact channels. The main location on Sovetskaya Street is always happy to welcome guests and provide excellent service.

The main reason to visit Saldens Taphouse is, of course, the tasting. You will be greeted by an impressive wall with dozens of taps, featuring both classic varieties and experimental new releases. Be sure to try the famous IPAs, rich imperial stouts, or refreshing sour ales. If you find it hard to choose, the bartenders are always ready to help you find a variety that matches your mood.

The gastronomic component here is just as impressive as the bar. The menu, created by Pavel Melgunov, offers a signature take on popular street food. We recommend trying the signature burgers and snacks, which are prepared from high-quality ingredients. The combination of juicy meat and perfectly paired craft beer is the kind of experience that makes visiting this taproom a mandatory part of any gastro-tourist's itinerary.

Beyond the food and drinks, it is worth simply enjoying the atmosphere. The interior is perfect for friendly conversation and slow relaxation. It is a great place to feel the rhythm of modern city life, meet with friends, or spend a pleasant evening after a walk through the historical center of Tula.

Finding Saldens Taphouse is easy, as it is located in the very heart of the city at 68 Sovetskaya Street. This central area is in close proximity to the city's main historical landmarks, such as the Tula Kremlin and the modern Kazan Embankment.

If you are arriving by public transport, any route going to the "Lenin Square" (Ploshchad Lenina) or "Pirogov Street" (Ulitsa Pirogova) stops will work. From there, it is just a few minutes' leisurely walk to the taproom's doors. For those who prefer comfort, taxi services are always available to quickly bring you from any point in the city or from the railway station.

For travelers from Moscow, remember that Tula is only a two-to-three-hour drive or a ride on the "Lastochka" high-speed train. This makes a gastronomic visit to the Taphouse an excellent plan for a weekend trip.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the development of the Russian craft beer movement. It all began in 2012, when the founder of Salden's Brewery, Denis Salnikov—a chemist-biologist by training—decided to turn his home hobby into a serious business. The first batches were brewed in a small room, with knowledge drawn from what were then rare foreign books and specialized forums.

The path to recognition began with a tiny spot in a record store building, which featured only six taps. However, a passion for experimentation and uncompromising quality quickly made the brand recognizable far beyond the city. Denis Salnikov became one of the pioneers of craft in Russia, releasing over 500 unique varieties, including the famous "Tomato Gose," which revolutionized the market.

The Saldens Taphouse project itself, in its current fast-casual format, opened in November 2017 on Sovetskaya Street. This was the result of a collaboration between the brewer and talented chef Pavel Melgunov. The idea was to create a place where fine gastronomy and complex craft beer would be accessible in a clear and democratic format.

The success of the first location led to active expansion: in the following years, the specialized Porterhouse restaurant and a seafood hall opened in Tula, and a franchising system was launched in 2020. Today, Saldens is not just a brewery, but a true symbol of modern Tula, combining traditions of craftsmanship with bold innovation.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of Saldens Taphouse, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This will be enough time to explore the extensive drink menu and try the signature dishes without rushing.

If your goal is a quick bite in a street-food format with a glass of craft beer, you can manage in an hour. However, if you plan a full tasting of rare varieties or a dinner with a large group, time will fly by, and you will likely want to stay longer.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, without days off or lunch breaks. The doors of Saldens Taphouse are open from noon until midnight, making it easy to stop by for an early lunch or a late dinner.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM.

A visit to the famous taproom can easily be combined with sightseeing. Since the establishment is located in the historical center, the most interesting tourist routes begin just a few steps away, allowing you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of both old and new Tula.

A stroll along the embankment after a hearty lunch or a visit to the ancient fortress walls will be a great addition to your gastronomic experience. Below is a list of interesting locations nearby: