Max Bahnson, or as you might better know him Pivní Filisof, has recently updated and published his 2nd edition of Prague: A Pisshead’s Pub Guide. Full of plenty of enticing ideas and advice for getting the most out of your Prague experience, a dedicated reader will no doubt end up just like the title suggests, pissed, but certainly more educated about Czech beer and pub culture.

The first impression one gathers from Prague: A Pisshead’s Pub Guide is the tremendous amount of work that went into its creation. This is a do-it-yourself, 18 pub crawl guide, that takes you through the whole city of Prague, shedding light on little known pubs tucked away in Prague’s center, to newer brew pubs just establishing themselves on the city’s edge. Each crawl has at least 5 or 6 pubs, plenty to keep even the thirstiest and most sturdy drinker occupied.

There are three points that make this such a valuable read. The first is accessibility. Everyone, from a person well versed in beer knowledge to a tourist just spending a few days in Prague, can learn something about Czech beer from Max’s Guide. The pub crawls could occupy weeks, even a month of your time, not counting time to recuperate. Even for a dedicated pub goer, one is bound to discover an overlooked hospoda or pub remarkable for something that takes patience and a seasoned eye.

The second point greatly appreciated is the lack of pretentiousness and elitism that is so often encountered in the beer world today. Max doesn’t give a fig about classifications, definitions, or any of the trendiness and so one that many drinkers define themselves by today. He likes a good, well tapped beer, in a good pub surrounded by happy people. Never has a 10° Gambáč sounded so good. This book makes a Prague resident aware of how we truly take for granted the beer on tap here- even the most ordinary beers, if they are well kept, are a luxury that most beer drinkers in other countries would kill for.

And lastly, Max has spent a lot, a lot of time learning about Czech beer, Czech pub life, and has essentially become a beer soaked sponge of the best part of Czech culture. He knows his pubs, his beers, and the culture around them.

Two areas that could be improved upon are the maps, which are hard to read, and for someone unfamiliar with the streets of Prague, might not be the most helpful. The photos could also be sharper. But these small details in no way inhibit the reader from planning a fantastic day with friends.

For someone new to Czech beer, he has a handy description of some common beer terms you’ll come across on your pub adventures. He also explains Czech pub etiquette, which compared to what happens in other pubs across the world, could be a bit perplexing.

Like the taste of a good, wholesome beer in a charming pub, Prague: A Pisshead’s Pub Guide’s universal approach to Czech beer has something for everyone.