Best 14 Breweries in New York City NY: Top Picks for Beer Lovers

New York City is home to some of the best breweries in the world. With a thriving craft beer scene, the city boasts a diverse range of breweries, from small-batch microbreweries to large-scale production facilities. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking for a cold pint, there is something for everyone in the Big Apple.

Bronx Brewery is a popular destination for beer lovers, with three locations across the city. Known for its classic brews like the Bronx Pale Ale and No Resolutions IPA, the brewery also offers a rotating selection of experimental beers. Visitors can take a tour of the production facility, enjoy a tasting flight in the taproom, or grab a bite to eat from their food truck.

Other Half Brewing in Brooklyn has quickly become one of the most highly regarded breweries in the city. Known for its hazy IPAs and pastry stouts, the brewery has gained a cult following among beer enthusiasts. With a spacious taproom and outdoor seating area, visitors can enjoy a pint of their favorite brew while taking in views of the Manhattan skyline.

The Art of Brewing in New York City

New York City has a long and rich history in brewing. The first commercial brewery in America was established in Lower Manhattan nearly 400 years ago. Since then, the city has been home to a wide variety of breweries, ranging from small craft operations to large-scale production facilities.

Brewing is an art form that requires a great deal of skill and knowledge. It involves the careful selection of ingredients, precise measurements, and a deep understanding of the brewing process. Each brewery has its own unique approach to brewing, resulting in a wide range of flavors and styles of beer.

Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, and New York City has been at the forefront of this trend. The city is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with a growing number of local breweries producing high-quality, artisanal beers.

The art of brewing in New York City is not just about creating great beer, it’s also about supporting the local community. Many of the city’s breweries source their ingredients locally, and they often collaborate with other local businesses to create unique and innovative beers.

Brooklyn Breweries

Brooklyn is home to some of the best breweries in New York City. These local breweries offer a wide range of craft beers that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top breweries in Brooklyn:

Brooklyn Brewery

Brooklyn Brewery is a popular brewery located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It was founded in 1988 and has since become one of the most well-known breweries in the country. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including their famous Brooklyn Lager, which is a Vienna-style lager. They also have seasonal and limited-edition beers that are worth trying out.

Website https://brooklynbrewery.com/

Address: 79 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

Other Half Brewing Company

Other Half Brewing Company has several taprooms across New York City and is known for its unique and experimental beers. The brewery was founded in 2014 and has since gained a loyal following. They offer a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. One of their most popular beers is the Green City IPA, which is a hazy IPA that is made with Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe hops.

Website https://otherhalfbrewing.com/

Address: 195 Centre St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States

Wild East Brewing Co.

Wild East Brewing Co. is a relatively new brewery that opened its doors in February 2020. It is located in Gowanus, Brooklyn, and is known for its experimental and innovative beers. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. They also have a tasting room where visitors can try out their beers and learn more about the brewing process.

Website: https://www.wildeastbrewing.com/

Address: 623 Sackett St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

Big aLICe Brewing Co.

Big aLICe Brewing Co. is a small-batch brewery that is known for its locally sourced and innovative beers. The brewery has two locations in Queens and Brooklyn and offers a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. They also have a tasting room where visitors can try out their beers and learn more about the brewing process.

Website https://www.bigalicebrewing.com/

Address: 52 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232, United States

Other Notable Breweries

In addition to the breweries mentioned above, there are several other notable breweries in Brooklyn worth checking out. These include:

  • Sixpoint Brewery
  • Grimm Artisanal Ales
  • Interboro Spirits & Ales
  • Finback Brewery

Overall, Brooklyn is home to some of the best breweries in New York City. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, stouts, or sours, there’s something for everyone in Brooklyn’s local brewery scene.

Queens Breweries

Queens is a borough of New York City that is full of fantastic breweries. From small, local breweries to larger, more established ones, there is something for everyone in Queens. Here are some of the top breweries to check out in Queens:

Focal Point Beer

This brewery is known for its delicious IPAs and stouts. They have a great outdoor seating area, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a warm day.

Website: http://focalpoint.beer/

Address: 43-50 12th St, Queens, NY 11101, United States

Astoria Bier and Cheese 

This brewery and cheese shop is a must-visit for beer and cheese lovers. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as a variety of cheeses and charcuterie boards.

Website: http://astoriabierandcheese.com/

Address: 3414 Broadway, Queens, NY 11106, United States

Murray’s Cheese Bar 

This brewery and cheese bar is a great spot to grab a beer and a bite to eat. They have a great selection of beers on tap, as well as a variety of cheese-focused dishes.

Website: https://www.murrayscheese.com/

Address: 254 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, United States

The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites

This craft beer bar in Long Island City has a great selection of beers on tap, as well as a variety of bites to eat. They also have a great outdoor seating area.

Website: http://www.thejeffreynyc.com/

Address: 311 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022, United States

Alewife Brewing & Taproom 

This brewery in Long Island City is known for its delicious IPAs and stouts. They have a great outdoor seating area, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a warm day.

Website: http://www.alewife.beer/

Address: 41-11 39th St, Queens, NY 11104, United States

Bronx Breweries

New York City is known for its diverse range of breweries, and the Bronx is no exception. The borough is home to several local breweries that offer a unique selection of craft beers. Here are some of the best breweries in the Bronx:

The Bronx Brewery

The Bronx Brewery is a popular destination for beer lovers in the area. Located in Port Morris, the brewery offers a variety of signature and seasonal beers, including their famous Bronx Pale Ale. Visitors can enjoy a beer flight or a pint in the taproom, which features an industrial-chic design and a lively atmosphere. The brewery also hosts events and tours for those interested in learning more about the brewing process.

Website: https://thebronxbrewery.com/

Address: 856 E. 136th Street, Bronx, NY 10454

Gun Hill Brewing Company

Gun Hill Brewing Company is another top-rated brewery in the Bronx. The brewery is located in Olinville and offers a wide selection of beers, including their award-winning Void of Light Stout. Visitors can enjoy a pint or a flight in the taproom, which features a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery also hosts events and private tours for those interested in learning more about the brewing process.

Website: http://www.gunhillbrewing.com/

Address: 3227 Laconia Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States

Other Breweries

In addition to the Bronx Brewery and Gun Hill Brewing Company, there are several other breweries worth checking out in the Bronx. These include:

  • Bricks & Hops
  • Interboro Spirits & Ales
  • Single Cut Beersmiths
  • Bronx Ale House

Each of these breweries offers a unique selection of craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to one of these breweries is a must for any beer lover in the Bronx.

Manhattan Breweries

Manhattan may be known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, but it’s also home to some of the best breweries in New York City. From classic brewpubs to modern taprooms, there’s something for every beer lover in Manhattan.

One of the top-rated breweries in Manhattan is The Bronx Brewery, located in the Hudson Yards Mall. With a 4.5-star rating on Yelp, this brewery offers a wide range of beers, including their flagship Bronx Pale Ale and seasonal brews. They also offer tours of their facility, where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample some of their beers.

Another popular spot is Torch & Crown Brewing Company, located in the South Village. This brewery serves up a variety of American-style beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. They also have a full food menu, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends.

For a more upscale experience, head to Fifth Hammer Brewing Company in Long Island City. This brewery has a sleek, modern taproom and offers a rotating selection of craft beers. They also have a full kitchen, serving up delicious bar bites and entrees.

Other notable Manhattan breweries include:

  • Harlem Brewing Company
  • Alphabet City Brewing Company
  • Heartland Brewery

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top-rated breweries in Manhattan for a taste of the city’s thriving craft beer scene.

Noteworthy Breweries

Threes Brewing

Threes Brewing is a brewery and bar located in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn. The brewery has a large selection of beers, including IPAs, lagers, and stouts. Threes Brewing also has a kitchen that serves food, and the bar hosts events such as trivia nights and live music. The brewery has a laid-back atmosphere and is a great place to hang out with friends.

Website: https://shop.threesbrewing.com/pages/gowanus

Address: 333 Douglass St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

Grimm Artisanal Ales

Grimm Artisanal Ales is a brewery located in Brooklyn that specializes in sour beers and farmhouse ales. The brewery has a taproom where visitors can taste their beers and enjoy some food. Grimm also has a small snack menu, rotating food pop-ups, lots of merch, and beer delivery available locally and in nearby states. Grimm is known for its creative and experimental beers.

Website: https://grimmales.com/

Address: 990 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

Evil Twin Brewing

Evil Twin Brewing is a brewery originally from Denmark that now has a location in Queens. The brewery has a wide selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. Evil Twin is known for its creative and unique beer names and labels. The brewery also has a taproom where visitors can taste their beers and enjoy some food.

Website: https://eviltwin.nyc/

Address: 1616 George St, Queens, NY 11385, United States

These breweries are just a few of the best breweries in New York City. Each brewery has its own unique style and selection of beers, making them all worth a visit.

The Beer Variety

New York City is home to a diverse range of breweries, each offering a unique selection of beers. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there is something for every beer lover in the city.

One popular style of beer is the IPA, with many breweries offering their own take on this hoppy brew. Double IPAs, or DIPAs, are a stronger and more intense version of the classic IPA, and can be found at several breweries throughout the city. Hazy IPAs, which have a cloudy appearance and a juicy flavor, are also gaining popularity among beer enthusiasts.

For those who prefer a more sour taste, sour beers are a great option. These beers are brewed with wild yeast or bacteria, giving them a tart and acidic flavor. Ales, which are fermented at warmer temperatures, also offer a range of flavors and are a popular choice at many breweries.

Stouts, known for their dark color and rich flavor, are another favorite among beer drinkers. Imperial stouts, which have a higher alcohol content and a stronger flavor, are a popular choice for those looking for a bold and intense beer.

Lagers, with their crisp and clean taste, are a great option for those who prefer a lighter beer. Pale ales, which are similar to IPAs but with a milder hop flavor, are also a popular choice among beer lovers.

Pairing Beer with Food

When it comes to pairing beer with food, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the flavor profile of both the beer and the food. A light beer, such as a pilsner, pairs well with lighter foods like salads and seafood, while a darker beer, like a stout, is better suited for heartier dishes like grilled meats and stews.

Another important factor to consider is the intensity of the flavors. A beer with a strong flavor can overpower a delicate dish, while a light beer may get lost in a bold, spicy meal. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Many breweries in New York City offer food menus or partner with restaurants to provide delicious bites to pair with their beers. For example, Black Forest Brooklyn in Fort Greene offers a huge German-inspired menu that pairs perfectly with their selection of beers. Their fries are a must-try!

Empanology, a popular empanada spot with multiple locations in the city, has also teamed up with several local breweries to offer beer and empanada pairings. It’s a fun and unique way to experience the flavors of both the beer and the food.

Some breweries even offer pizza as a pairing option. For example, Other Half Brewing Company in Brooklyn has a rotating selection of pizza from local pizzerias available in their taproom. It’s a great way to enjoy a slice with a cold beer.

Breweries and Local Art

New York City is not only home to some of the best breweries in the country but also boasts a thriving art scene. Some breweries in the city have taken advantage of this and incorporated local art into their spaces. Visitors can now enjoy not only great beer but also experience the creativity of local artists.

One such brewery is Five Boroughs Brewing Co. located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The brewery has an art gallery on its premises that showcases the work of local artists. The art is rotated every few months, giving visitors a chance to see new pieces with each visit. The brewery also has a mural on its exterior wall that was painted by a local artist.

Another brewery that has embraced local art is Other Half Brewing Company. The brewery has a rotating art gallery in its taproom that showcases the work of local artists. The art is available for purchase, and a portion of the proceeds go to a local charity.

Transmitter Brewing in Long Island City has also incorporated local art into its space. The brewery has a mural on its exterior wall that was painted by a local artist. The taproom also has a rotating art gallery that showcases the work of local artists.

These breweries are just a few examples of how the local art scene has been integrated into the city’s brewery culture. Visitors can enjoy great beer while also experiencing the creativity of local artists.

Seasonal Brews

New York City’s breweries are known for their creativity and experimentation when it comes to seasonal brews. During the summer months, many breweries offer light and refreshing beers that are perfect for hot days.

One popular summer brew is the Bronx Brewery’s Summer Pale Ale, which features a blend of hops that give it a citrusy, tropical flavor. Another option is the Coney Island Brewing Company’s Merman NY IPA, which is brewed with honey and lemon peel for a crisp, refreshing taste.

For those who prefer a darker beer, the Brooklyn Brewery offers a summer stout that is brewed with cold-brew coffee and has a smooth, creamy finish. Other breweries, such as Strong Rope Brewery and Gun Hill Brewing Company, also offer a variety of seasonal beers that are perfect for the summer months.

Conclusion

New York City has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are many excellent breweries to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a classic brewpub experience or something more experimental, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

Some of the top breweries in the city include The Bronx Brewery, which has been around for a decade and is known for its excellent beer and commitment to promoting its internship program. Other notable breweries include Big aLICe Brewing Company, which is known for its creative and experimental beers, and Gun Hill Brewing Company, which offers a wide variety of classic and modern brews.

Visitors to New York City can also check out some of the city’s top beer bars and taprooms, such as Randolph Beer, which offers a rotating selection of 30 beers on tap, as well as house-made hard seltzers and a brunch and all-day food menu. Other popular beer bars include The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites, which offers an extensive selection of local and international craft beers, and Blind Tiger Ale House, which has been a fixture in the city’s beer scene for over 20 years.