After a hard week — putting the kids’ pool away as the weather cools, tending a leaf fire in the yard — there’s not much better than a cold one.
Before the list, a note on how beer is actually served here, because it catches most newcomers out. The traditional setup is a champinera: a bucket packed with ice holding your bottles. When you finish one, you turn the empty bottle upside down in the ice. That’s the signal to the waiter that you want a reload — a refill. No flagging anyone down.
Here are the five local beers worth putting in that bucket.
1. Munich — the bold German-style lager
Pronounced moon-itch here. A full-bodied lager with a solid head of foam, closest in character to classic Czech beers like the original Budweiser brewed in České Budějovice.
It pours with a thick, frothy head that takes its time settling. Unapologetically full-flavored next to the lighter options on the market. If you like traditional European brewing, start here.
2. Baviera — the rich amber choice
Another German-style contender, leaning heavier and deeper than Munich. Full-bodied and thick, with a quality head reminiscent of Radegast. Deep amber color, hearty and robust.
Whether you find it in the classic glass bottle or grab a can at the liquor store, you won’t regret taking a cold Baviera when it’s offered.
3. Brahma — the crowd-pleaser
Originally a Brazilian staple, now brewed locally and one of the two best-selling beers in the country.
Extremely crisp, smooth and light on the palate, with light foam and an easy-drinking texture. This is the staple of Paraguayan social life — universally enjoyed, available everywhere, and built for long afternoons with friends.
4. Pilsen — 100% Paraguayan
If you want something paraguayite — straight-up Paraguayan — Pilsen is the heritage choice. Brewed continuously since 1912, it shares the crown with Brahma as the country’s most popular beer.
A classic, highly refreshing pilsner designed to beat the heat. Light golden, delicate foam, very easy to drink. Sitting on ice on an 80-degree evening, it delivers exactly what it’s built for.
5. Orofino — the casual backyard brew
Believed to have Portuguese-Brazilian roots, actively brewed in Paraguay and a solid everyday drinker. Light, refreshing, straightforward, with a pale pour and a quick-settling head.
It sits slightly behind Brahma or Pilsen in a head-to-head taste test, but it’s a reliable cold option when it’s time to chip in for a round — hacer una vaquita, as it’s called here.
The short version
From full-bodied amber lagers to crisp pilsners, Paraguay’s brewing scene covers most palates. If you’re visiting and want the local experience, order a champinera and start with a Pilsen.
