Cometa Brewing: Something’s brewing in Sofia’s Orbit

Me making a batch of my brew in Cometa Brewing back in 2023. 

 The Sofia craft beer scene moves fast. New names pop up constantly, but few manage to cut through the noise and establish themselves as essential staples in just two years. Cometa Brewing is the exception. If you have visited a beer festival in Sofia recently or browsed the shelves of the city’s bottle shops, you have likely seen their distinctive labels. They are colorful, abstract, and space-themed—much like the liquid inside. Behind the brand are two enthusiasts, Andon and Vlado, who have managed to skip the "awkward experimental phase" many breweries go through and jumped straight to professional consistency. 

The Story: 

Precision over Hype Cometa appeared on the radar a couple of years ago, and what struck me immediately was their discipline. In a market where many newcomers try to release 20 different styles in their first month, Cometa focused on nailing a core lineup first. They operate with a level of polish that usually takes years to develop. They aren't trying to be the loudest brewery in the room; they are trying to be the most reliable. And in a city full of hit-or-miss batches, reliability is a superpower. 

Andon and Vlado proudly standing in their “home”. Photo from their official website.

The Beer: 

Bottles of Space Dust Unlike the trend of putting everything in 440ml cans, Cometa sticks to the classic 330ml glass bottle. There is something satisfying about the tactile feel of their bottles—they feel premium, and the beer inside backs it up. Here is what you should look for in the fridge: 

• The Flagship: Okioki (IPA) If you only try one beer from them, make it this one. It’s a 6.1% New Zealand IPA that hits all the right modern notes—tropical, zesty, and clean. It doesn’t have that harsh bitterness that scrapes your palate; it’s smooth, dangerous, and incredibly drinkable.

• The Dark Side: Darkless This is a surprisingly nimble Stout (around 4.3%). It’s proof that dark beer doesn't have to be heavy or syrupy. It’s roasty and coffee-forward but light enough to drink in the summer.

• The Hazies: Nova & Treble Team Recently, they’ve been flexing their muscles with Hazy IPAs and Pale Ales. Nova is a juicy Pale Ale that looks like breakfast juice, while Treble Team is a heavier NEIPA that brings the fog. 

The Aesthetic: 

Modern & Cosmic The branding deserves a mention. The names are all space-themed (Cometa, Nova, Darkless, Summer Somewhere), and the visual identity is clean and bright. They have managed to create a look that stands out on a shelf at 100 Beers or Dissident without looking chaotic. It’s a modern look for a modern brewery. 

Where to Find Them: 

Cometa doesn't have a public street-level taproom (yet), but their distribution in Sofia is excellent. You don't need to trek to an industrial zone to find them. 

• On Tap: You will frequently find their kegs rotating through the guest lines at BiraBar and Kanaal. 

• In Bottles: Almost every serious craft beer shop in Sofia stocks them. Look for them in the fridges at Dissident or 100 Beers. 

• The Festivals: This is where Cometa really shines. They are a staple at the major Sofia beer festivals (usually held in the parks during warmer months). If you see their stand, go say hi—Andon and Vlado are usually the ones pouring, and they are always up for a chat about hops and brewing.

The Verdict:

Cometa represents the "Second Wave" of Sofia craft beer—polished, professional, and exciting. They have quickly graduated from "new kids on the block" to "reliable favorites." If you see that colorful bottle with the abstract art, grab it. It’s one of the safest bets in the city for a quality pint.