Born in the West,
Brewed in the South.
A fiercely independent craft brewery in the heart of South Melbourne. More than just a taproom — a warm, welcoming community space dedicated to crafting bold, flavourful beers with an enduring American influence.
A story of bold flavours, community spirit, and evolution.
Westside Ale Works is a fiercely independent craft brewery with a story rooted in passion and evolution, based in the heart of South Melbourne. More than just a taproom — we are a warm, welcoming community space dedicated to crafting bold, flavourful beers with an enduring American influence.
Chapter One: The Foundation
Our journey began in November 2016 with founder Casey Wagner. Inspired by the unapologetically hop-forward styles and laid-back attitudes of the U.S. West Coast, Casey opened the original six-tap operation at 23 Alfred Street — quickly earning a reputation for vibrant community spirit and commitment to quality, experimental brewing.
Expansion and Growth
In 2019, we relocated to our current, larger warehouse at 36 Alfred Street. This move brought in our own canning line, enabled a barrel-aging program, and solidified our status as a local favourite.
A New Chapter: Respect and Refinement
In late 2024, local owner Jonathan Treloar took the reins. A full rebrand and taproom renovation followed in 2025 — modernising our space while building on deep respect for Westside's foundations. While the faces behind the bar may have changed, the passion for great beer and good times remains the absolute core of our identity.
We are proudly independent and acknowledge the Wurundjeri People as Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate.
The Westside Way
American Influence
Inspired by the unapologetically hop-forward styles and laid-back attitudes of the U.S. West Coast — bold West Coast IPAs, American Pale Ales, Sours and Stouts brewed with obsession and character.
Rooted in Evolution
From a six-tap operation at 23 Alfred Street in 2016 to our current home at 36 Alfred — we've grown, canned, barrel-aged and evolved while honouring the foundations that made Westside a local icon.
Community First
More than just a taproom — we are a warm, welcoming community space. Pull up a stool at the bar, order a pint and feel right at home among friends, regulars and new faces alike.
The Science of Brewing
Head Brewer Leo Salancon brings a background in winemaking and distillation to the brewhouse — focusing on intense hop profiles balanced for drinkability, and manipulating water profiles to elevate every pour.
Walk through the big roller door and feel right at home.
Our warehouse-style taproom on Alfred Street offers a cosy, welcoming atmosphere with hop-forward beers and tasty pizzas. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, pull up a stool and let us pour you something cold.
We pour across 20 taps — 16 dedicated to our own core range, seasonal experiments and limited releases, with 4 rotating the best local and international guest beers. This deliberate focus ensures we brew with creativity, consistency and care in every single batch.
The creativity in our brewhouse is driven by Head Brewer Leo Salancon. A native of Bordeaux, Leo brings a unique perspective — combining a background in winemaking and distillation with a technical passion for brewing, particularly manipulating water profiles to elevate the texture and flavour of every pour.
Planning a function? We can cater for groups of up to 70 in the taproom and 30 in the Hop Loft. Our mezzanine is perfect for intimate gatherings, complete with a 60" monitor and sound system.
Host your next event here
Birthdays, corporate functions, team events, weddings, trivia nights — we don't believe in one-size-fits-all. Tell us what you need and we'll make it happen.
Full exclusive hire available Wed–Sun. 155" projection screen and full sound system included.
Our mezzanine level — perfect for intimate gatherings, meetings and smaller functions. 60" monitor with dedicated sound system.
A relaxed outdoor space that pairs perfectly with the main taproom for larger events and celebrations.
Come see us.
36 Alfred Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Open Wednesday – Sunday