2017 Local Craft Beer Guide
INDUSTRY RISING
Craft Beer’s New Golden Age
New Jersey is steeped in beer history. Names like Krueger, Hensler and Wiedenmayer once reigned as brand leaders. Newark’s Ballantine produced the industry’s first IPA.
The story of NJ beer was once an immigrant story. Built with hard work, grit and spirit, many of these companies thrived for a hundred years. By the early 20th century, there were over 50 brewers in New Jersey; half were based in Newark where they were the city’s largest employer until consolidation and restrictive regulation led to the demise of the local industry in the 1960s.
But that was then. When Climax Brewing in Roselle Park, Flying Fish in Cherry Hill and Lambertville’s River Horse Brewing opened in the 1990’s, they ushered in a new era of New Jersey brewing. In the past ten years alone, the industry has grown from 16 breweries statewide in 2007 to more than 80 today. Buoyed by interest in locally-sourced food and drink, New Jersey craft brewers have entered a new golden era. They are revitalizing downtowns, providing jobs, and following green practices.
We present this guide as a way to discover New Jersey’s local craft beer culture. It provides a listing of many of the best breweries in the state, as well as some great places to drink them. The listings are in two sections:
• Breweries and Brew Pubs
Most breweries have tasting rooms and offer tours. Others are brew pubs, making their own beers to be enjoyed along with enticing food menus.
• Taphouses and Restaurant Bars
With the rise of NJ craft beers, restaurants, bars, and taphouses across the state are carrying more and more NJ beer options. The establishments listed here serve at least 2 New Jersey beers on tap on a regular basis; many carry far more. Be sure to ask for New Jersey beers wherever you dine.
The story of NJ beer is now a story of entrepreneurship. With hard work, grit and spirit—and outstanding offerings from ales to lagers, pilsners to porters—we hope these companies thrive for a hundred years and more. —N. Painter
Cheers!
ABOUT OUR SPONSOR:
Located in Whitehouse Station since 1996, HUNTERDON BREWING CO, wholesale distributor, has raised the bar for craft beverage availability throughout the Garden State by providing the most diverse portfolio of New Jersey and local offerings the market has to offer. Hunterdon currently represents over seventy domestic craft beer and spirits brands, hundreds of imports, a unique line of sakes, ciders, wines, meads, and ready-to-drink cocktails. Find their products in restaurants, bars, and retail outlets across the state. 908.454.7445. hunterdonbrewing.com
BREWERIES AND BREW PUBS
Please use this guide to learn how each brewery and brew pub is unique. Many breweries offer tours and tastings, but be sure to visit their websites and call ahead to check tour and tasting hours. Brew pubs listed offer full dining menus.
ARTISAN’S RESTAURANT & BREWERY | Capture the flavors of Fall at Artisan’s Restaurant and Brewery! Their executive chef Steven Farley uses only the finest ingredients, superior local produce, and New Jersey seafood so fresh it often comes straight off the boat. All dishes are handmade, fresh to order The oldest brewery in Ocean County. 1171 Hooper Avenue, Toms River; 732.244.7566. artisanstomsriver.com
BROTHERTON BREWING COMPANY | Brotherton Brewing Company started out as a dream for five lifelong friends to someday open a craft brewery to push the boundaries of craft beer style and flavor; and to create some of the best tasting and most exciting beers for everyone to enjoy. Try their Brotherton IPA and Brotherton Pale Ale among many others! 1120 Route 206, Shamong, 609.801.2686. brothertonbrewing.com. Not open to public
CAPE MAY BREWING COMPANY | Cape May Brewing Company has been leading New Jersey’s craft beer charge from the southern-most tip of the state since 2011. Committed to sustainability and sourcing locally among CMBC’s award-winning brews they count two jersey Fresh-certified beers and countless others crafted with local ingredients. Open year-round for tours and tastings. 1288 Hornet Road, Cape May 609.849.9933. cape-maybrewery.com. Open Daily
DEMENTED BREWING | Demented produces a number of core beers, but their focus is on producing a variety of seasonally inspired “insanely flavorful ales” that are on tap mainly in their tasting room. Demented beers are available all across the state and distributed by Hunterdon Brewing Company. 600 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, 732.629.8260. dementedbrewing.com. Open daily
GASLIGHT BREWERY |The Gaslight Brewery and Restaurant, the first and only brew pub in Essex County has been a mainstay in the Village of South Orange for the past 19 years. The Soboti family-owned and operated establishment offers everything from award winning beers and entrees to banquet room space and beer dinners. 15 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, 973.762.7077. gaslightbrewery.net. Open Daily
LONG VALLEY PUB & BREWERY | Nestled at the foot of Schooley’s Mountain in a breathtakingly restored 200-year-old barn, their fresh brews, quality food and dedicated staff make this a perfect site for a night out. Their award-winning brewer and outstanding culinary team have developed a wide variety of unique beers and culinary creations. I Fairmount Road, Long Valley 908.876.1122. restaurantvillageatlongvalley.com/long-valley-pub-and-brewery Open daily
PINELANDS BREWING | Founder and Brew Master Jason Chapman hand crafts approachable ales of historic character At Pinelands Brewing, the spirit of the Pinelands influences everything; from the signature brew names to the laid back atmosphere. Its philosophy is to maintain an unyielding devotion to quality and cultivate a fresh approach on the classics. 140 South 7th Avenue, Little Egg Harbor; 609.296.6169. pinelandsbrewing.com
RIVER HORSE BREWING | River Horse’s mission To make great beer and have fun doing it. And they do both. From ales to pilsners to porters, from summer blondes to IPAs to their “sour series,” River Horse invites you to get a little less serious and try something new and delicious. 2 Graphics Drive, Ewing, 609.883.0890. riverhorse.com. Open daily Online reservations required for tours.
SLACK TIDE BREWING CO. | Slack Tide Brewing Company founded in 2015, has a simple philosophy: Create a diverse, high-quality line of beers made with all natural ingredients sourced locally when-ever possible. And, make Slack Tide Brewing Company a destination in Cape May County where locals feel at home and visitors look forward to returning. 1072 Route 83 Unit 3, Clermont, 609.478.2343. slacktidebrewingco.com. Open Wednesday-Monday
THIRD STATE BREWING | Located in Burling ton’s historic down town ,Third State is part of the revitalization of this gem on the Delaware. Their selection of delicious craft ales and lagers complements the city’s exciting new restaurants, growing arts community and many outdoor activities. Visit Burlington and stop for a tour; tasting or growler 352 High Street, Burlington, 609.387.1620. thirdstatebrewing.com. Open Thursday-Sunday
THREE 3’S BREWING | Three 3’s focuses on brewing IPAs and Saison-style beers. Sample a beer in their pet-friendly tasting room! Beers are also available throughout the state, plus at many festivals and events around New Jersey. Distributed by Hunterdon Brewing Company. 50 13th Street, Hammonton, 732.814.1396. Facebook.com/Three3sBrewing. Open Wednesday through Sunday
TRAP ROCK RESTAURANT & BREWERY | Showcasing local and seasonal flavors alongside home-crafted beers, Trap Rock’s menu features comfortfood with hints of Southern flavors. Their warm and cozy tavern-inspired decor is perfect for drinks with friends or celebrating a special occasion in their private Brewer’s Room. Their award-winning brewery is constantly rotating different styles of beer Their beer is also available at other Harvest Group restaurants. 279 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, 908.665.1755. traprockrestaurant.net. Open daily
TROON BREWING | Troon Brewing is located in beautiful Hopewell on the sprawling property of Double Brook Farm. The brewery is housed in one of the original barns there, built in the mid-1800’s, and every effort was taken to preserve the historic features of the building. Troon only pours growlers for offsite consumption; for full pours and tastings, head to Double Brook Farm’s Brick Farm Tavern. Open Friday-Sunday
ACROSS THE BORDER, but still local!
PINE ISLAND BREWING | Located just over the border in Orange County, NY, PIB is a passionate small-batch, grassroots company, founded by a couple of off-centered beer lovers with a cool idea, great tasting beer, hard-working attitude, and a desire to make high quality, genuine American craft beer. Visit their tasting room located in beautiful Pine Island. 682 County Route 1, Suite B Pine Island, NY, 845.288.2646. pineislandbeer.com. Open Thursday-Sunday
TRÖEGS INDEPENDENT BREWING | Founded in Pennsylvania in 1996 by brothers John and Chris Trogner, Tröegs is driven by a sense of adventure and curiosity. Troegs is widely known for award-winning beers like Perpetual IPA, Troegenator, Nugget Nectar and Mad Elf, as well as the experimental Scratch Series, wood-aged Splinter Series and Hop Cycle Seasonals. 200 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA. 717.534.1297. troegs.com. Open daily
TAPHOUSES AND RESTAURANT BARS
Here are places to enjoy New Jersey craft beers along with a full dining experience. Each of the establishments listed here carries at least 2 New Jersey craft beers on tap on a regular basis. But ask for Jersey beer selections anywhere you dine!
10 NORTH | This relaxing, sophisticated Lounge within Atlantic City’s Tropicana boasts a double-sided-fireplace, cozy seating and bar-top slot machines, serving up all of your favorite libations, including NJ craft beers. Don’t miss premier piano bar entertainment by Darin MacDonald every Thursday 6-10pm. Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City. tropicana.net/casino/10-north-lounge.
ADDAMS TAVERN | Addams Tavern was designed with comfort and elegance in mind, with soaring ceilings, a wood burning grill, and murals by a local artist. Perfect for a romantic date, an evening out with friends, or a celebration, Addams Tavern offers both classic cocktails and modern twists, a worldly wine list, and of course, NJ and local craftbeers. 115 Elm Street, Westfield, 908.232.3201. harvestrestaurants.com/addamstavern_westfield
ALICE’S | Alice’s mission is “good food, comfortable drink.” The Lake Hopatcong restaurant serves up cocktails, craft beers and seasonal, high-quality food by Chefjoseph Sanfilippo on a beautiful lake setting with a comfortable atmosphere. Bring the kids to this family-friendly eatery, and take in the view while sipping on an NJ brew. 24 Nolan’s Point Park Road, Lake Hopatcong, 973.663.9600. alicesrestaurantnj.com
ASBURY FESTHALLE & BIERGARTEN | Bringing an authentic European experience to the Jersey Shore, this venue features a 9,000 square foot outdoor rooftop biergarten and a 6,000 square foot indoor hall with live music and long communal tables where strangers become friends. Their Austro-Hungarian menu is complemented by a choice of 100 imported American and Jersey beers. 527 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, 732.997.8767. asburybiergarten.com
BRICK FARM TAVERN | The beer program at Brick Farm Tavern is focused on local, craft, and quality. Half of the beers on tap are dedicated to NJ, and the other tap handles are equally distributed between NY & PA. Beach Haus, one of their featured NJ breweries, also provides their spent grain to feed the farm’s pigs. 130 Hopewell Rocky Hill Road, Hopewell, 609.333.9200. brickfarmtavern.com
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CODA KITCHEN & BAR | A city vibe in the heart of Maplewood Village. Enjoy their large selection of local craft beers on tap or original cocktails in their sophisticated, contemporary neighborhood restaurant. Inspired dishes with locally sourced and organic selections. A favorite local hangout where you can meet up with old friends or make new ones! 177 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, 973.327.2247. codamaplewood.com
THE FARM & THE FISHERMAN | Chef/ Owners Josh Lawler and Todd Fuller’s popular establishment pairs preparations of regional produce and proteins with carefully selected wine, spirits, and local beer. In the family-friendly tavern environment, they source both food and craft brews locally to ensure the quality and freshness while supporting NJ farmers and brewers. Check out their new Horsham, PA location! 1442 Marlton Pike, Cherry Hill, 856.356.2282. fandftavern.com
HUMPHREY’S TAVERN | Humphrey’s Tavern in historic Hunterdon County offers a dining experience in a lovingly restored pre-Revolutionary War building. Gastropub-style food, craft cocktails and 16 beers on tap make it a memorable NJ experience. Dinner served nightly; closed Mondays. Private parties, Sunday brunch and a calendar of engaging activities. 161 Main Street, Glen Gardner, 908.537.7272. humphreystavern.com
LANGOSTA LOUNGE | Langosta Lounge features 12 beer taps with a lineup that changes weekly. You can always count on Kane, Carton and Forgotten Boardwalk as their NJ craft beer staples, with frequent visits from native Asbury Park brewers: Dark City and Asbury Park Brewing. 1000 Ocean Avenue at 2nd Avenue, 732.455.3275. langostalounge.com
THE MILFORD HOUSE | The Milford House combines old and new world comfort food with delicately prepared entrees in a historic, warm and welcoming environment. The Milford House also offers local craft beers for customers to enjoy, from breweries like River Horse, Three 3’s and Brotherton. 92 Water Street, Milford, 908.995.9411. milfordhousenj.com
THE OFFICE TAVERN GRILL | A member of the 40North Restaurant Group encompassing 7 brands in 10 locations throughout NJ and PA. Locations in Morristown and Summit, plus a soon-to-be third location in Ridgewood! Along with great gastropub-style food, they offer 40 rotating craft beers on tap featuring Flying Fish, Carton, River Horse, Forgotten Boardwalk, Kane and more. 3 South Street, Morristown, 973.285.0220; 61 Union Place, Summit, 908.522.0550. 40northrestaurants.com
OKATSHE | Chef Jose Garces’ playful, modernized take on a traditional Japanese izakaya and sushi. Okatshe visually transports guests to the streets of Tokyo and provides a sense of discovery by taking guests through a small Japanese candy storefront before entering the restaurant. Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 609.340.4053. okatsherestaurant.com
THE OLD CAUSEWAY | The “newest and freshest” idea in South Jersey. Now open for lunch, dinner and happy hour! Enjoy the freshest oysters from the east and west coast as well as steaks from the finest natural angus beef available, all while sipping on NJ craft beers like Forgotten Boardwalk and Cape May Honey Porter. 1201 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, 609.488.1327. oldcauseway.com
OLÓN | Bar Olón serves as the foundation of Olón’s extensive beverage programming, including 16 draft beers; 35 beers by-the-bottle; 20 wines by-the-glass; 75+ wines by the bottle and eight handcrafted specialty cocktails. All complemented by a menu featuring seafood, ceviche, a raw bar, sandwiches and small plates. Live entertainment on weekends. Tropicana, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 609.340.4050. olonrestaurant.com
OSTERIA MORINI | Osteria Morini brings the soulful cuisine and convivial spirit of Emilia-Romagna in northern Italy to Bernardsville. Along with classic Italian ingredients like prosciutto, mortadella and parmigiana, Osteria Morini also serves craft beers from local breweries like Ramstein Brewery and River Horse. 107 Morristown Road, Bernardsville, 908.221.0040. osteriamorini.com
SERGEANTSVILLE INN | Enjoy lighter tavern fare or experience their exceptional fine dining menu highlighting many game entrees and farm-to-table ingredients from local farmers. Their menu is all natural, free range or wild. Enjoy local beers from breweries such as River Horse and Lone Eagle. 601 Rosemont Ringoes Road, Sergeantsville, 609.397.3700. sergeantsvilleinn.com
ST. JAMES’S GATE | At St. James’s Gate, comfort and consistency are key. This publick house serves up traditional dishes with a spin. Great food, great music, great whiskey and great beer! Stay tuned for their launch of NJ beer taps coming this fall. 167 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, 973.378.2222. stjamesgatepublickhouse.com
TABOR ROAD TAVERN | This seasonal American bistro boasts dramatic multi-gabled architecture, spectacular vaulted ceilings and a double-sided-fireplace. With its cozy dining areas, fresh seasonal menu and dizzying array of wines and brews including NJ craft beers, Tabor Road Tavern will satisfy your senses and culinary desires. 510 Tabor Road, Morris Plains, 973.267.7004. taborroadtavern.com
TAPASTRE | Their 22 rotating taps feature some of the best local craft beers around, with a focus on local breweries, along with some rarities, aged beers and exclusives. At Tapastre, sharing and tasting with friends leads to good conversation and great times. Be sure to visit the new Project PUB—a pop-up brewpub upstairs (projectpubnj.com). 1 West High Street, Somerville, 908.526.0505. tapastre.com
TAPHOUSE GRILLE | With more than 10 NJ beers on tap (subject to change), Taphouse Grille offers an energizing yet sophisticated atmosphere for any customer to sip on New Jersey craft brews. Nightly specials, happy hour, and private party space. The perfect place to grab a drink and watch the game or catch up with friends. 344 French Hill Road, Wayne, 973.832.4141; 1930 Route 57, Hackettstown, 908.651.5995. taphousenj.com
WINBERIE’S RESTAURANT & BAR | A full service, casual restaurant and bar delivering high quality, simple meals. With attentive service in a relaxed atmosphere, Winberie’s reflects the friendly, easy-going mood of a stylish neighborhood bistro. Specializing-Specializing in true American flavors, they offer small batch liquors, craft beer including NJ’s own and carefully selected wine. 2 Kent Place Boulevard, Summit, 908.277.4224. winberies.com
THE WINDLASS | At The Windlass, an “antique boat” bar, airy dining areas and porch enhance a menu showcasing hand-selected ingredients in a state-of-the-art kitchen featuring a wood-burning pizza oven and Tuscan grill. Enjoy local craft beer pairings from NJ breweries like Cricket Hill and Flying Fish. 45 Nolan’s Point Park Road, Lake Hopatcong, 973.663.3190. thewindlass.com
WOODSTACK PIZZA KITCHEN | 11 local craft beers and one cider are always on tap at Woodstack. Enjoy along with Napolitano-style pizzas made with 24-hour fermented dough, cooked at 900 degrees in Stefano Ferraro ovens. Artisanal breads, pastas, ice cream and more made on premise daily. Contact for information on private events, beer dinners and other special events. 29 Route 46 East, Pine Brook, 973.227.3007. woodstacknj.com
YANKEE DOODLE TAP ROOM | Founded in 1756, the Yankee Doodle Tap Room welcomes guests with a gastropub featuring craft beer and an excellent wine list. Stop in for a pint of NJ beer near the cozy fireplace or on the bustling patio overlooking Palmer Square. Check out their special craft beer tastings, live music, and other events. Located in The Nassau Inn at 10 Palmer Square, Princeton, 609.921.7500. nassauinn.com
Save Our Forest;
Save Our [Local] Beer
The Nature Conservancy’s OktoberForest Like beer? Love trees. Beer is 90-95% water—water that comes from New Jersey’s local rivers, streams and aquifers. Stressors like fires, insects and land development have taken a toll on America’s forests; that is why The Nature Conservancy makes it their mission to increase forest restoration throughout New Jersey and the United States. It has launched the OktoberForest Awareness Campaign; to help fuel its restoration movement, The Nature Conservancy is looking toward craft breweries—and their consumers—for help.
The Nature Conservancy is partnering with craft breweries nationwide in a multi-year OktoberForest campaign to spread awareness about forest restoration—and the close connection between forest health and water—to build support for New Jersey forests. The campaign will run every October for the next few years at participating breweries around the state. Consumers can take part in the “Tip Your Tree” program and donate one dollar or more to The Nature Conservancy when they make purchases at these breweries. The donations will help connect, restore and protect forested land in Warren and Sussex Counties and create a habitat corridor for wildlife that is uninterrupted by development.
Check out oktoberforest.org to stay up to date as more breweries announce their participation, and view interactive maps of breweries, brewer profiles and information about forest restoration as well. Forests provide clean water so that New Jersey breweries are able to share their delicious brews with beer lovers around the Garden State. Saving our forests means saving our beer.—J. Mullaney
