Dodo Beer House
In Saint-Denis, the Dodo Beer House opens the doors to Brasserie de Bourbon. Production line, the history of the island's emblematic brand, and tasting all on the agenda.
The Dodo Beer House is the historic production site of Brasserie de Bourbon, in Saint-Denis, Réunion. This is where Dodo is born, the iconic blonde beer of the island, whose name references the extinct bird symbolizing the territory. The site offers an immersion into the workings of a local brewery rooted in Réunion's identity for several decades.
What to see
The tour reveals the stages of beer production: brewing, fermentation, bottling. Industrial equipment sits alongside educational scenography on the brand's history and its connection to Réunion. A tasting typically concludes the experience.
History and context
Brasserie de Bourbon was founded in 1962 in Réunion. Dodo quickly became the island's reference beer, competing with metropolitan imports. The dodo, an extinct bird from neighboring Mauritius, was adopted as the mascot—a symbol of claimed insular identity. The brewery is now owned by the Heineken group.
Highlights of the tour
The production line
Observing fermentation tanks and the bottling line in operation gives a concrete sense of the volume produced to supply the entire island and exports.
The tasting
At the end of the tour, a tasting of the Dodo range—blonde, amber, or alcohol-free depending on availability—allows you to compare aromatic profiles in a convivial setting.
The brand universe
Vintage posters, collector items, and the advertising history of Dodo trace the evolution of a brand that has become a cultural reference in Réunion.
Photography tips
Stainless steel tanks offer interesting reflections. Favor wide angles to capture the height of the installations. Production zones may be subject to photography restrictions—check with reception.
Location and access
The Dodo Beer House is located in Saint-Denis, the capital of Réunion, in the city's industrial zone. Saint-Denis is accessible from Roland Garros Airport, a few kilometers away. The Car Jaune bus network serves the city. A vehicle remains practical for reaching the industrial zone.
Nearby
- Jardin de l'État — historic botanical garden in the heart of Saint-Denis, ideal for a pause after your visit.
- Musée Léon Dierx — fine arts museum in Saint-Denis, one of the most important in the Indian Ocean.
- Cathédrale de Saint-Denis — central religious building of the capital, with characteristic architecture.
Frequently asked questions
Tours are generally by prior reservation. Contact Brasserie de Bourbon directly to find out available time slots.
The industrial site is accessible to families for the discovery portion. Alcohol tasting is reserved for adults.
A sales area typically offers brand products—beers and branded merchandise—at the end of the tour.
Plan for about one to one and a half hours, including tasting, depending on the format offered.
Yes. Saint-Denis city center, Jardin de l'État, and Musée Léon Dierx are easily visited in the same day.
Interested in this visit?
We can include it in your personalised itinerary.
