La Catarina
La Catarina Cerveza Artesana Marbella was the full name of an out-of-the-way alternative venue in Nueva Andalucia which gained cult status whilst it was open from 2014 to 2019.
In spring 2019 the venue closed and the Micro Brewery moved to a larger facility next to the AgroJardin garden center in Cancelada district of Estepona next to the A7 at km 164 and just west of river Guadalmansa. The cafe of the garden centre was transformed into a hip restaurant taking full advantage of its original leafy setting and reopened as 'Cats Kitchen by La Catarina'. Live band play at weekend evenings including the jam session on Friday evenings. There are also a variety of themed events. There is artisan Market first Saturday of month 11.00 to 19.00. Cats Kitchen is open in the winter; 09.00 to 18.00 Sunday to Thursday and to 00.00 Friday & Saturday for drinks and snacks. Full restaurant service at lunch and from 19.30.
Info about La Catarina retained for historical interest: La Catarina project started out in 2012 as one of the first craft beers to be produced in Marbella. The microbrewery, ‘pub', and art/music venue is hidden away on the La Campana industrial estate in Nueva Andalucia. It was well worth hunting out.
The décor was unmistakably warehouse - more New York than New (Nueva) Andalucia, while also rocking a rustic vibe with sofas and recycled furniture. The walls were covered with contemporary art. Some furnishings are useful, such as a pool table, dartboard and library bookcase, while others were more decorative, such as a red vintage-repro petrol pump. Plenty of hipsters beards are in evidence.
The beers were produced on the premises and visitors could see the stainless steel brewing tanks behind glass screens. The beers are named - with one exception, Tarifa - after local Marbella districts or historical elements. Golden Mile, Sierra Blanca, Tarifa, Muelle de Hierro, Altas Hornas, De Pedro, Cruz de Juana. Guided tours of the brewery could be pre-arranged.
Food served is snacks/tapas - cheese, ham and burgers.
Live music ranges from singer-songwriters, jazz and blues to loud heavy rock. There are also theatre performances and improv, and on Wednesdays is the jam session with all welcome to come along, not forgetting your instrument. Performances started at about 22.00.
La Catarina was Calle Gabriel Celaya 6, La Campana Industrial Estate, Nueva Andalucia, 29660 Marbella
