Summer is officially here folks, and you know what that means: the hunt for the best breweries in New York City has commenced!
Make no mistake: the prospect of finding New York City’s best breweries is an overwhelming task even for the most devote local. But fret not, because that’s where I come in.
I’ve lived in the Big Apple for 8+ years and spend most of my weekends catching up with friends at various breweries across town (judge away).
I’m not one for small talk and I know we’d both rather have a brew in hand, so let’s just jump right in. Read on to learn about the best breweries in NYC, from a local’s perspective.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Breweries New York City
Threes Brewing (Brooklyn)
Let’s kick off this list of the best breweries in New York City with a crowd favorite — Threes Brewing in Brooklyn.
Considered one of the most popular New York City breweries, the masterminds behind the brewhouse are applauded for churning out some of the most balanced craft brews in NYC.
That’s not to say the brews lack complexity (anything but!), it’s just that the velvety texture makes them (almost) too easy to drink.
At the flagship location in Gowanus, the focus is on creating approachable lagers, hop-forward IPAs and floral pilsners all while perfecting traditional styles with modern twists.
You can expect to find knock-out brews served in a relaxed setting (the outdoor patio can’t be beat) with the option of grabbing a bite from The Meat Hook (pop up food vendor). Just make sure you bring good company because you’ll want to linger.
In my opinion, this is one of the best breweries in New York City but it turns out I’m not the only one that thinks so. This NYC brewery’s success speaks for itself, since opening in 2014 they’ve expanded to three new locations: Greenpoint (Brooklyn), Huntington (Long Island), and a seasonal outpost on Governor’s Island.
Address: Multiple Locations in New York City
Other Half Brewing Co. (Brooklyn)
Founded in 2014 by friends Sam Richardson, Andrew Burman and Matt Monahan, nobody could brace for the wild success of what would become one of the most iconic New York City breweries.
The reason for their endeavour was clear: they weren’t finding beer in New York City that excited them so they sought to change that. Today they churn out some of the best brews in New York — something you can test for yourself at their spacious taproom in Brooklyn.
The awe-inspiring selection of beer can overwhelm those unaccustomed to seeing more than 10 beers listed on a menu (they typically have 19-20 beers on tap). But tip to the wise – they excel with hoppy beers so the IPAs are always a safe bet.
But there’s a reason for the madness — everyone should be able to find a beer to love! The diverse menu boasts everything from sours and ales to hazy IPAs, ciders and porters.
The hardest thing about this beloved NYC brewery if finding an open table in the rustic tasting room. The easy-going vibe and lively chatter makes it hard to leave, so folks tend to linger.
Address: 195 Centre St, Brooklyn, NY 11231 & 34 River St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Evil Twin Brewing (Queens & DUMBO)
Started by Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergso, an identical twin from Denmark, Evil Twin Brewing seems to have one mission in mind: upset the apple cart. His twin brother launched Mikkeller Brewing Company in 2006, which Jeppe challenged with Evil Twin Brewing in 2010.
This popular New York brewery originally started as a nomadic brewery (without a home base, brewing beers at other breweries in New York City). After 8 years of the nomadic lifestyle, Jeppe and his wife/business partner Maria, decided to settle down in Queens.
Their Queens brewery and taproom opened in 2019, after much planning and design. It was important to the couple that the tasting room was a beautiful experience and they delivered. Heck, if I’m being honest, this is probably my favorite taproom in New York City.
Gorgeous tasting room aside, it’s the beer the steals the show. Expect to find exciting, albeit unusual, variations on classics. As you probably know by know, I’m partial to the IPAs but even I can’t pass up an unusual seasonal delight every now and then.
Worth noting, Evil Twin Brewing opened a second (smaller) location in DUMBO. The tasting room isn’t as charming as the location in Queens but the brews are just as great.
Address: 1616 George St, Queens, NY 11385 & 43 Main St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
At Evil Twin Brewing NYC we wanted to expand upon the traditions of innovation & further it with the intimacy of a local neighborhood microbrewery. With more control over our recipes, we are able to experiment on new flavors while perfecting the classics.
Fifth Hammer Brewing Company (Queens)
Queens doesn’t always get the credit it deserves when discussing best breweries in New York City. I mean, there’s no denying that Brooklyn takes the cake in the brewery department, but still – you have to give credit where credit is due and overlooking Fifth Hammer Brewing Company would be a mistake.
Offering a rotation of 15 craft beers on tap, the place is buzzing with locals most days of the week, myself included. The irresistible culprit? Sonic Architecture Wave 13, a juicy hazy IPA I can’t stop thinking about.
My partner is partial to the creative sours churning out of this great NYC brewery and never passes an opportunity to try the new flavors.
If your idea of a good time includes food (as it should) you have a few options. You can grab a bite from the local popup vendors inside the relaxed taproom or pay a visit to the food trucks parked outside. If nothing catches your eye, you have the option of bringing outside food instead.
Address: 10-28 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Local’s Tip: Fifth Hammer Brewing Company is one of the most dog-friendly breweries in NYC, so no need to leave your pooch at home. There’s always some cute dogs around!
TALEA Beer Co. (Brooklyn)
What happens when two well-established women quit uninspiring corporate careers and take on an industry predominantly run by men? They end up opening one of the best breweries in New York City, to no one’s surprise.
TALEA (pronounced tah-lay-uh) Beer Co. is the passion project of Tara and LeAnn (the brewery’s name is a blend of their first names), an endevour they took on because they wanted to make craft brew more approachable and inclusive.
This is the only woman-founded brewery in New York City so it’s no surprise that their mission would be inclusivity. They strive to make easy drinking fruit-forward beers that lack acidity in an effort to capture folks that are convinced they don’t enjoy beer.
In addition to the creative brews pouring into every glass, my biggest reason for considering TALEA Beer Co. one of the best breweries in NYC is the welcoming atmosphere. Everyone is embraced and everyone leaves happy.
“From confusing packaging and bearded bros with attitudes to dark, industrial taprooms, the male-dominated industry was lacking an approachable, inclusive perspective and voice.”
talea
Address: 87 Richardson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Brooklyn Brewery (Brooklyn)
Brooklyn Brewery needs no introduction. This New York City microbrewery has made headlines for their perfectly balanced lagers that can be found in stores across the country, but not everyone has the luxury of visiting the taproom.
This has the be one of the sleekest breweries in NYC, largely thanks to the cozy leather couches, wood-trimed everything and ample picnic tables. Come to think of it, it’s very reminiscent of those epic basement hangouts we all dreamed of in high school.
Ordering couldn’t be easier. Every table is equipped with a QR code. Simply scan and order, the food and drinks will be delivered when ready. I’m a big fan of the Bel-Air Sour, can’t recommend it enough if you’re into sours.
But let’s get real — it’s hard to go wrong with anything churning out of this popular New York brewery, so try as many as you (responsibly) can.
Address: 79 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Locals tip: Brooklyn Brewery offers brewery tours, if interested, you can read about the small batch tours.
Grimm Artisan Ales (Brooklyn)
Grimm Artisan Ales is one of the most impressive breweries in New York City. How do I know? They won New York State Brewers Association’s highly coveted Brewery of the Year award 2 years in a row. The crazy part? They’ve only been open since 2018.
Bringing home six awards last year alone (including silvers for their blonde ale and American IPA), this highly acclaimed NYC brewery is nothing to scoff at and has a tasting room to match.
As soon as you enter you’ll quickly notice that the taproom doesn’t immediately look like a traditional brewery. The white walls and ample window light make it seem more like an upscale modern bar than most typical breweries in New York City.
The barrels in the back serve as assurance though, you’re in the right spot.
I try to make it out to Grimm Artisan Ales at least once a month. I don’t expect them to stop being one of the breweries in New York City anytime soon and I’m always looking forward to trying one of their cold cups of foamy ale.
Address: 990 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Check out the breakdown of all the categories Grimm Artisanal Ales placed in on American Craft Beer‘s website.
Rockaway Brewing Co. (Queens)
Locals refer to Rockaway Brewing Co. as one of the most affordable breweries in New York City, which is how I first discovered this gem after moving to the Big Apple (don’t even get me started on the cost of living in this city!).
This NYC brewery has a very relaxed hole-in-the-wall vibe and offers a solid lineup of craft brews. There’s typically a rotation of 10 craft beers on draft that can be served in 4, 8 or 16 ounce pours. In addition to draft beers you can also order from the impressive selection of bottled beers.
I highly suggest ordering a tasting flight during your first visit. You’ll get the chance to sample a great selection of expert brews before committing to a pint.
If helpful, Rockaway Brewing Co. is also one of the most dog friendly breweries in New York City.
Address: 46-01 5th St, Queens, NY 11101
Wild East Brewing Co. (Brooklyn)
Opening in 2020, Wild East Brewing Company’s success can be attributed to one thing: they serve some of the best beer in New York City. Specializing in sours and fermented beers, this is the place to go for saisons and pale ales.
Combining classic European brewing techniques with modern innovations, the end result is a beautiful thing. Flavorful and refreshing pints of lagers, farmhouse ales, hazy IPAs and sours guaranteed to keep you coming back for more.
The spacious taproom is irresistibly inviting and oozes industrial-chic farm. It’s the only place you want to be during a relaxed weekday.
Wild East Brewing Co. is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in visiting the best breweries in NYC.
Address: 623 Sackett St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Local’s Tip: Wild East Brewing Co. offers brewery tours and tastings, if interested, you can sign up here.
Torch & Crown Brewing Company (Manhattan)
Founded in 2018, Torch & Crown started innocently enough — the (future) founders were busted at an East Village bar with fake IDs in hand.
Annoyed but undeterred by rejection, they resolved to learn the craft of beer making for themselves. The result was a beautiful thing, proven by the fact that they ended up founding one of the best breweries in New York City.
Torch & Crown is best known for the inviting atmosphere, knowledgeable team and knock-out brews. The space has a modern feel with beautiful wood tables, tons of plants and industrial-sized steel tanks.
I’m a sucker for their IPAs and lagers. If you’re having a hard time choosing something from the menu, I highly recommend the Tenement (a refreshing pilsner that’s lagered for 100 days). Seriously, don’t miss a chance to try it for yourself.
Address: 12 Vandam St, New York, NY 10013
Big aLICe Brewing (Queens & Brooklyn)
Crafting innovative locally-sourced beer, Big aLICe Brewing is a must-visit for those searching for the best beer in New York City.
This small-batch brewery was named after a red-and-white generator stack (affectionately called ‘Big Allis’) that became a Queens landmark. What makes them unique from the other New York City breweries mentioned on this list is that they’re a certified farm brewery.
Essentially this means that every business decision is done with the community in mind. Founders, Kyle Hurst and Scott Berger, work with local hops farmers and business owners to source all of their ingredients.
Everything from hops and malts to one-off ingredients like fruit, honey, coffee, donuts (you know, the usual suspects) is sourced locally to support local and state agriculture.
Serving some of the best beer in NYC since 2013, Big aLICe Brewing currently boasts three locations: Queens, Brooklyn and Finger Lakes.
I find that most of the beers at this cool New York City brewery tend to lean towards complex and hearty notes, thankfully they never fail to hit the spot.
Address: 8-08 43rd Rd, Long Island City, NY 11101 & 52 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232
Local’s Tip: Food isn’t offered so outside food is permitted. I especially enjoy the brewery in Brooklyn because of the great food options from nearby vendors.
ICONYC (Queens)
ICONYC was founded in 2016 as a wholesale beer company operating out of a basement. After quickly growing in popularity they opted to open their own taproom, quickly becoming one of the best breweries in New York City.
ICONYC brews a Cucumber Saison that serves as my guilty pleasure. Whenever I visit I make sure to pick up one or two 4-packs that I can take back home and enjoy with company.
Brewed with cucumber, lime, ginger and sea salt it’s reminiscent of fruit cups you’d buy from a vendor on the street.
They boast one of the largest outdoor seating areas among New York City breweries so I can’t help but keep coming back in the summer. Also, if you do choose to sit outside, you’re welcome to bring your dog along on your beer date.
There’s just something romantic about drinking a brew on a warm evening as the sun is setting. The conversation flows easier and the hours seem to fly by.
Address: 43-63 11th St, Queens, NY 11101
Interboro Spirits and Ales (Brooklyn)
Self-credited as the Brooklyn’s first brewery and distillery, Interboro is a sight for sore eyes. I mean, making some of the best beer in NYC is one thing, but liquor?! Who are you trying so hard to impress!
Started by Laura Dierks and Jesse Ferguson in 2016, this quickly became one of the most popular breweries in New York City and doesn’t who signs of slowing anytime soon. The goal was to bring people together through beers and spirits, a mission they’ve accomplished beautifully.
Since spirits are distilled in-house, expect to find an exciting rotation of seasonal cocktails elbowing alongside fan-favorite brews, like the IPAs. I suggest getting a flight of various IPAs (if you’re a fan of the hoppy stuff) to wrap your head around the expert brewing at hand.
There is also a small menu of appetizers on offer. The steak and ale empanada are my go-to items. They menu says it’s “mad fat” and I couldn’t think of a better way to describe it.
What’s that saying?, liquor before beer – you’re in the clear, beer before liquor… eh, I think you’ll be fine.
With Brooklyn’s first craft brewery and distillery, our goal is to engage, inspire, and bring people together with our distinctive, flavor-forward beers and spirits. We want to show what can be done with three basic ingredients: grain, yeast and water.
Interboro Spirits and Ales
Address: 942 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
The Bronx Brewery (The Bronx)
The Bronx Brewery can be used as the poster-child for the best breweries in New York City. The Brewery screams New York City, and it does so by design. Their mission statement makes it clear that they strive to use beer as a means to build community.
This brewery currently has two locations.The South Bronx location partnered with a food vendor called Empanology. This unique Bronx-born restaurant serves traditional Puerto Rican fare with a modern twist.
The East Village location partnered with the food vendor Bastard Burger, a burger joint hailing from Sweden. I probably don’t have to remind you that burgers and beer are a match made in heaven. Thankfully you can have access to both at The Bronx Brewery, one best breweries in New York City.
P.S. You have to try the City Island Sour during your visit. Back by popular demand, this beer was supposed to be a seasonal offering originally, but the popular demand ensured it a spot on the menu year-round.
Address: 856 E 136th St, The Bronx, NY 10454 & 64 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Kings County Brewers Collective (Brooklyn)
The Bushwick neighborhood is no stranger to good beer, far from it. At one point an area in north Bushwick was referred to as “Brewer’s Row” because there were 14 breweries within a 14 block radius.
Adjusted for today’s terminology, we’d probably call it heaven.
The Kings County Brewers Collective (KCBC) opened its doors in in 2016, becoming the first brick and mortar brewery Bushwick had seen in 40 long years.
Thanks to 3 award winning home-brewers who decided to open up shop we now have one of the best breweries in New York City.
Expect to find a plethora of lagers & IPAs, but not a lot of dark beers. My go to is Ride the Liger, a crisp Kolsch that goes down smooth. The best way to try the wide array of brews is with a flight (which on Wednesdays will only run you $10).
KCBC’s popularity has spread throughout the city attracting visitors from all five boroughs. The tap room is laid back and relaxed, just like you will be after visiting this popular NYC brewery.
Address: 381 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co. (Brooklyn)
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Company is what I believe young folks refer to as a vibe. Ever since the New York City brewery opened in 2014 the brewery has grown a base of loyal customers thanks to a flavorsome collection of beers.
The German-styled brewpub comes equipped with ample hall-style seating as well as a roof deck featuring a lit-up green water tower. The ambience alone warrants it a spot amongst the best breweries in New York City.
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co. makes one of the best stouts on the market, Goon Squad. The brew toes the line between bold, rich dark beer and smooth, easy drinking light beer. Not to get too into the weeds, Goon Squad is just plain delicious.
The NYC brewery a great spot for meeting with friends. The food menu has shareable options (like a delectable giant pretzel) and there’s enough beer varieties for everyone to find something they’re sure to love.
Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co. hosts a trivia night once a month and I never seem to know for sure whether the beer makes me a better or worse player. Regardless, trivia night is fun way to spend some time at one of the best breweries in New York City.
Address: 1150 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Alewife Brewing (Queens)
Ask any local about the best breweries in New York City and Alewife Brewing is sure to come up. Offering more than 20 beers on tap, this is the spot to go for a relaxing and fun evening with friends.
Located in the heart of Queens, this NYC brewery is known for juicy IPAs and craft beers. Originally located in Long Island City, Alewife Brewing made the move to a bigger facility in Sunnyside, Brooklyn in 2020.
Serving some of the best beer in NYC, the variety spans the gamut. The tap typically hosts a generous rotation of 20 brews and you’re bound to find creations aged with spirits like whiskey, gin, bourbon and tequila.
Small bites are available but if you’d like a proper meal then you’ll need to visit the food truck parked outside.
Address: 41-11 39th St, Queens, NY 11104
P.S. If you’re interested in how this Queens brewery got its name, you can read more here.
Transmitter Brewing (Brooklyn)
An unapologetic mastery of traditional and farmhouse ales has made Transmitter Brewing one of the most respected breweries in NYC.
Started by two friends with a shared passion for homemade food, Rob Kolb and Anthony Accardi decided to try their hand at homebrewing. This effectively sowed the seeds for Transmitter Brewing, a beloved staple in Brooklyn.
The goal is to keep the focus on traditional beer by perfecting their understanding of hops and yeast. Perfecting the classics rather than competing for the limelight of the newest trends in New York City’s craft brew scene is what sets them apart from the competition.
All this to say, this is one of my favorite breweries in New York City whenever I’m in the mood for a quick pint of some of the best beer in NYC.
But heads up, there’s only two picnic tables outside, so this isn’t the NYC brewery to go to if you want to lounge for a while.
Address: 141 Flushing Ave building 77, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Our mission at Transmitter Brewing is to leverage our passion, and introduce you to compelling and unique beers with an appreciation of their history and a focus on the quality of ingredients. We are constantly striving to create approachable interesting yeast driven beers with complimenting grains and hops.
Transmitter Brewing
Gun Hill Brewing Company (The Bronx)
Gun Hill Brewing Company opened in 2014, becoming the first brewery in the Bronx in over 50 years. Named after a hill in the Bronx where colonists dragged up a canon and fired on the British during the Revolutionary War, it’s safe to say the founders are passionate about their home borough.
The brewery gained national attention in 2016 when it released “Rise Up Rye”, a beer made in conjunction with the hit Broadway musical Hamilton. Together Hamilton & Gun Hill Brewing Co. donated a portion of the sales to charity. It’s still available
Gun Hill makes other (patriotic) beers that have kept their loyal customer base growing. Among them, Spirit 76 is a popular pilsner that makes for easy drinking. Even better, the brew is made with New York grown malts.
And for those that prefer dark beer, Void of Light has medaled three times for best stout at the Great American Beer Festival, most recently winning silver in 2020.
This New York City microbrewery is housed in a spacious industrial warehouse that opens its doors to the public rain or shine. The taproom is relaxed, with board games available and the occasional live performer.
Gun Hill Brewing doesn’t offer much when it comes to food, the menu items are more snacks than meals. The one item that does stick out though are the empanadas, they have no business being as tasty as they are.
Address: 3227 Laconia Ave, The Bronx, NY 10469
McSorley’s Old Ale House (Manhattan)
Although technically an ale house, McSorley’s warrants a visit for a beer (or two). Opened sometime between 1854 and 1862 (the exact year is debated), McSorley’s Old Ale House is one of the most historic spots in New York City for beer.
The ale house boasts two mottos: “We were here before you were born” and “Be Good or Be Gone.” However, before women were allowed in bars in the 1970’s, McSorely’s motto was: “Good Ale, Raw Onions and No Ladies.”
The oldest Irish Salon in New York City, McSorley’s has hosted notable patrons throughout the years. Famous names include Abraham Lincoln, Ulyssess S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, John Lennon, Houdini and E.E. Cummings.
Located in the East Village, everything about this iconic ale house oozes with old-world charm. In fact, not a single item has been removed from the walls since 1910. You can find Houdini’s handcuffs on a bar rail and wishbones hung by young men going off to World War I.
The menu is limited to two options: house-made dark or light ale. Some things never change, and (frankly) shouldn’t.
Address: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
McSorley’s makes an appearance on our list of 10 Memorable Manhattan Bars Everyone Should Visit.
Best New York City Breweries (Post Summary)
- Threes Brewing
- Other Half Brewing Co.
- Evil Twin Brewing
- Fifth Hammer Brewing Company
- Talea Beer Co.
- Kings County Brewers Collective
- Grimm Artisan Ales
- Rockaway Brewing Co.
- Wild East Brewing Co.
- Torch & Crown
- Brooklyn Brewery
- Big aLICe Brewing
- ICONYC Brewery
- Interboro Spirits and Ales
- The Bronx Brewery
- Greenpoint Beer & Ale Co.
- Alewife Brewing
- Transmitter Brewing
- Gun Hill Brewing Company
- Evil Twin Brewing
- McSorley’s Ale House
Map of the best breweries NYC
And there you have it folks! My personal list of the 10 best breweries in New York City. Feel free to comment your favorite breweries and ones you believe should’ve made the list.
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Bottoms up!
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