The name of our friendly, knowledgable, and enthusiastic bartender who served us last night sums up…read moreIbalon Craft Brew -- this place truly is a Gem. It is tucked in the midst of the lively, and somewhat noisier, bars and restaurants on Magsaysay Ave in Naga City, Philippines, but easy enough to find across the street from the Villa Caceres. The decor inside was that of dark and cool colors, with earthy tones weaved throughout, reminding me of a coffee house where a musician with an acoustic guitar would feel right at home. The atmosphere was definitely comfortable and quiet this weeknight, and our bartender Gem greeted us promptly and warmly as we sat at the bar, and perused the offering. Now, onto the beer. The beers that we tried were great. Visiting from the United States, I was in search of some Filipino craft brews to try in a land that has been dominated by San Miguel for over a century. Ibalon Craft Brew did not disappoint! Being a craft microbrewery, their 4-5 main offerings are brewed right on site, and I loved the graphic on the back wall explaining the step by step process. The first one I tried was the Baltog IPA. This easily stands up against many of the IPA's I've tried in the US. Reminds me of a West Coast IPA style, although I'm not 100% sure that's what they were going for, with hops leaning towards the citrus and mango tropical flavor profile. Delicious!! The others were delicious as well -- the Bandiong Pale Ale, Handiong Sili Beer, and Oriol Stout. (at P250, or $5, flight, can't be beat! The Handiong Sili (chili) beer was definitely the most interesting of the mix, and I'm glad I tried it. The level of spiciness was perfect, and refreshing in a way. I wondered how the stout would fare in this hot, humid climate of the Philippines, but it was perfect. The body was heavy or syrupy at all, and the coffee and chocolate flavors came through nicely. Gem also gave us a sample of the new Passionfruit Pale Ale they were brewing, and it was wonderful as well. She was enthusiastic about talking about their beer, and knowledgable about beers in general. There were many other guest beers available as well, and some food offering which we didn't get to try. All in all, I loved this place. I definitely want to come back.