New Jersey is a rapidly growing craft beer community, featuring some of the most notable brew pub and microbrewery names in the country. With so many options, it can be difficult to select the right craft brewery for your next trip or weekend out.
A great taproom or tasting room can elevate your brewery experience from ‘good’ to memorable. But where can you go in New Jersey to find the best taproom for you?
Fear not! There are fantastic options throughout the state for your unique needs. From pet-friendly spaces to outdoor seating, gluten-free options to tasting rooms that honor military veterans, we found 17 New Jersey breweries with amazing taprooms you absolutely must visit.
UPDATE: We received a ton of responses to the original article we published about NJ breweries, and we heard your feedback loud and clear! We went back and updated this article with 7 more New Jersey beer makers that deserve some love — and your business!
Whether you live in New Jersey or are planning a trip, there’s a brewery on this list that is right for you. Let’s get started!
The 17 NJ Breweries You Must Visit This Year
902 Brewing Company
902 Brewing Company started as a group of friends and a 3-gallon pot. It’s since grown into a stunning location near Liberty State Park — the first of 2 Jersey City breweries on our list.
The vibe of 902’s taproom is friendly and inclusive. The outdoor space, with its massive brick logo wall, is an essential Jersey City hangout during summer months. Check out their Brew Jersey IPA collaboration and their Let The Wheat Drop Belgian blonde.
Reason to love 902 Brewing: “Good beer, nice people, great location.” One simple online review summarizes the vibe of 902 Brewing’s facility and taproom. Enjoy outdoor seating, a rooftop patio, or a seat inside 902’s industrial-vibes taproom itself. You can also rent a 902 Brewing beer trailer!
101 Pacific Ave, Jersey City, NJ
http://www.902brewing.com/
Ashton Brewing Company
Variety is always on the menu at Ashton Brewing Company in Middlesex. The rotating menu of beers on tap includes lagers, stouts, ales, IPAs and porters. Unsure what you want? Pour sizes range from pints to 5 oz. pours, and beer flights are available.
The pale ales are very good at Ashton. Sample a few with their Pale Ale Flight — Hacklebarney IPA and D&R Canal Belgian Pale Ale are standouts. We also like the use of local produce in beers like Strawberry Alarm Clock, a 6% ABV with strawberries from Petersen Farm in Quakertown.
If you’re new to Ashton Brewing Company, join one of their 2 beer clubs. Ashton Pilot Club is a great choice for adventurous drinkers who want early access to pilot series brews and new offerings.
600 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ 08846
https://www.ashtonbrewing.com/
Behr Brewing
Catherine and Steven’s simple beginnings with a home brewing kit blossomed into one of South Jersey’s most recognizable and adventurous brewing companies. Behr Brewing is a family-owned Cape May brewery with a tight-knit staff that creates a “homey” atmosphere for its customers.
The current tap list features 7 new and unique Behr beers. Start with the Winnie, an extra special bitter (ESB) with notes of caramel and biscuits that’s made with local honey. Rick is a unique cucumber dill gose with a sour pickle taste and a light 4.0% ABV.
We like the diversity of Behr’s menu, all the way from a double IPA (Two Two) to a coffee stout (Poke the Behr). Guests can bring their own food, choose between indoor and pet-friendly outdoor seating, and enjoy free Wi-Fi.
513 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204
https://www.behrbrewing.com/
Brix City Brewing
Brix City Brewing is another great New Jersey brewery with military roots. The Bergen County craft beer scene has boomed for the better part of a decade, and Brix City’s Little Ferry location is part of its heart.
The Brix City taproom is open 7 days a week. Current taproom offerings are updated frequently on their website. The Gloria 5.5% ABV Belgian style blonde ale is available year-round. Bolder drinkers must try Electric Jams, an 8% ABV sour double dry hopped IPA with wild berry and melon notes.
Reasons to love Brix City: The taproom is located under 10 minutes from the George Washington Bridge — an easy trip for Manhattan residents and commuters. Brix City’s active menu is expansive (at time of publication, there are 18 beers on tap), and craft beer lovers across New Jersey can find Brix City beers on offer at dozens of liquor stores.
4 Alsan Way, Little Ferry, NJ 07643
https://www.brixcitybrewing.com/
Carton Brewing Company
You’ve likely seen (or tried) one of Carton’s cult favorites, like Brew Jersey or their wildly popular seasonal Regular Coffee. But the depth of Chris and Augie Carton’s brewing repertoire makes their Monmouth County taproom a can’t-miss destination for craft brewery lovers.
Carton cans are impossible to miss throughout New Jersey liquor stores. The Carton taproom is open 5 days a week with varying hours. Be sure to check their Instagram for updated schedules. The Carton taproom experience is well worth the journey. If the weather’s nice, check out the Beer Garage for outdoor seating and a unique tasting experience.
Reasons to love Carton Brewing: Carton’s love for great beers is matched by its wit in naming them. Beers like Clam Jam, East of Eden Mama and Twin Outboard Whaler bring the joy of seaside lifestyle to every brew. Carton is one of the most adventurous New Jersey breweries, stepping into bold flavors and collaborations with fearless abandon. The result is central Jersey’s most audacious craft beer creator.
6 E Washington Ave, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716 (parking on 1st Avenue)
https://cartonbrewing.com/
Czig Meister Brewing
We’ve never seen less than 24 beers and seltzers on tap at the Czig Meister tasting room. Start with their flagship beer collection. The Huntsman Kölsch is a dry, crisp ale, while hops lovers favor the Angler New England IPA and its 7.2% ABV.
Czig Meister’s seasonal offerings range all over the brewing map — you’ll find bocks, pilsners, shandies, imperial stouts and fruit beers. If you like sours, try the Sundial Series and its notes of orange, mango and peach.
106 Valentine St Brewery 100, Hackettstown, NJ 07840
https://czigmeisterbrewing.com/
Eclipse Brewing
Eclipse Brewing is housed in a charming Cape Cod — its owner, Chris Mattern, wants guests to feel like they’re drinking beers in his living room. The result is a cozy, comfortable tasting experience with 18 taps available.
Familiar classics are a great start to match Eclipse’s cozy tasting room (and outdoor seating). The Maibock amber lager and Scottish Wee Heavy ale are a good introduction to Eclipse Brewing. IPA lovers should taste the DIPA (Double IPA) and Citra Promised on tap.
But Eclipse isn’t just about familiar flavors. The Mole Porter has a peppery kick, while the Coconut Cream Ale offers coconut flakes steeped in a cream ale base. There’s always one dedicated soda tap for kids and non-drinkers as well.
25 E Park Ave, Merchantville, NJ 08109
https://eclipsebrewingnj.com/
Departed Soles Brewing Company
Departed Soles is an homage to craft beer, a shared love for sneakers, and a friendship that’s endured past death. The tap list at its Jersey City location is diverse, reflecting the melting pot of the city it serves.
The Departed Soles taproom offers a rotating variety of options. Some of its best beers include Rick Rolled, a gluten-free oat coffee stout, and Phantasmagoria, a non-GF double dry hopped double IPA. Drinkers looking for a locally-inspired beer that packs a bunch should try the 8% ABV Free Blurred, a hazy NJ double IPA.
Reasons to love Departed Soles: Departed Soles has great offerings for gluten-free beer lovers in its taproom, the first tasting room in Jersey City. Dogs on leashes are welcome at Departed Souls, which is reached easily by PATH train, light rail, ferry and NJ Transit. The tasting room is inviting and welcoming, with a commitment to serve any and all who walk through its doors.
150 Bay St #2a, Jersey City, NJ 07302
https://www.departedsoles.com/
Icarus Brewing
Ocean County returns to our list with Lakewood’s Icarus Brewing. Icarus is well-represented in the retail beer market, with cans and kegs available for sale. Icarus is also a member of Brew Jersey and the Brewers Guild of New Jersey.
Book a tour of the Icarus brewery through their website for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at their brewing process. Each tour lasts 5-10 minutes and includes a walkthrough of their warehouse and brewhouse facilities. Icarus has a wide variety of beers on tap. The barrel-aged offerings, like the 23-month Take It Into Overtime, are tremendous.
Reasons to love Icarus Brewing: Lakewood’s first microbrewery, Icarus models its business on 3 core values — quality, innovation and community. The brewery strives to release 3-5 new beers each week, and the tasting room hosts frequent fundraisers supporting local charities. Be sure to stop by the seasonal Beergarden for outdoor seating with plenty of shade.
1790 Swarthmore Ave unit 3 lot 2, Lakewood, NJ 08701
https://icarusbrewing.com/
Kane Brewery
New Jersey beer enthusiasts are familiar with the Kane Brewing hexagon logo, which is in high demand throughout retailers and liquor stores. From Head High to Sneakbox, Kane is the unquestioned master brewer of pale ales in the Garden State.
The Kane taproom is located under 10 minutes from Asbury Park beach, making it an appealing destination for shore lovers. Interested drinkers can dive beyond the pale ale options to explore Kane’s quality IPA and imperial stout selection. Fans of fruity beer must try the Field & Oak bottles, like the Golden Raspberry and Peach & Noyaux varieties.
Reasons to love Kane: Kane has a limited taproom schedule (Friday-Sunday), but the visit is well worth your time. Over 20 brews are on offer at any time, including a wide array of the renowned Field & Oak bottle pours. You can also visit Kane’s Beer Garden during seasonal hours. Kids and service animals are welcome.
1750 Bloomsbury Ave, Ocean Township, NJ 07712
https://www.kanebrewing.com/
Lone Eagle Brewing
Lone Eagle’s brewery and taproom is a love letter to Hunterdon County. The owners worked with students at Hunterdon County Polytech to create its tables and benches, featuring reclaimed wood from Hunterdon County itself.
The tasting room accommodates 100 patrons, with room for 60+ more on its outdoor patio. Still, the space feels cozy and inviting, helped along by a particularly friendly staff. It’s a great spot to enjoy one of Lone Eagle’s award-winning IPAs and lagers, and a nod to the potential of Hunterdon County as a New Jersey craft brewery destination.
Reasons to love Lone Eagle: Drinkers looking to host private events can take advantage of Lone Eagle’s private loft, overlooking the brewing and tasting area. Fans of Lone Eagle’s brews can purchase and refill 64 oz. growlers for off-premise consumption. Take a tour of the premises before relaxing with one of a dozen tap selections.
44 Stangl Rd, Flemington, NJ 08822
https://www.loneeaglebrewing.com/
Montclair Brewery
Montclair Brewery is a wonderful Black-owned family brewery that incorporates a celebration of Black history and tradition in every pour. Leo and Denise’s home brewing journey led them to a full microbrewery and tasting room that’s served Montclair residents and visitors since 2014.
Not sure where to start? Visit Montclair Brewery’s tasting room and order one of 3 curated flight lists to “feel your way” through the menu. IPA lovers should start with the fruity Hava Guava IPA, a New England IPA brewed with real guava and booming with citrus notes.
Montclair Brewery excels at incorporating fruit and florals in their beers. The Jubilee Red Ale brewed with hibiscus is a gorgeous drinking experience, as is the Black is Beautiful Imperial Stout brewed with baobab.
101 Walnut St, Montclair, NJ 07042
https://www.montclairbrewery.com/
Oakflower Brewing Company
Oakflower Brewing Company is a community-focused microbrewery in Millington, NJ. Oakflower began on a local farm and grew into a community meeting room that offers beers filled with locally harvested ingredients.
Three on the Tree is a Triple IPA collaboration with Gearblock that speaks to Oakflower’s community-oriented tradition. Felled is another good Oakflower IPA, double dry hopped with Waimea, Citra and Eureka.
This writer thoroughly enjoyed Oakflower’s Gnaw dark lager, which offers a gently spicy background and smooth finish. Try any of 10 beers available on tap, or take one of 5 Oakflower brews home with you.
1932 Long Hill Rd Suite A, Millington, NJ 07946
https://www.oakflowerbrewing.com/
Red Tank Brewing
Red Tank is quickly becoming a staple of downtown Red Bank. Owners John and Lovina Arcara are Red Bank residents who utilize a local farm-to-table mentality to create beers that taste uniquely local.
The brewery has a modern, industrial feel, marked by brick, stainless steel and signature red chairs. The brew pub beers on tap include references to the Arcara’s family members and favorite musical acts. Try the Hazy Cosmic Jive, a Bowie-inspired New England flagship IPA, or the dry and creamy Broad Street Stout.
Reasons to love Red Tank: Red Tank’s diverse location offers live music, private events and a tour of its stainless steel brewhouse. The brewing company supports a number of philanthropic efforts, like UNICEF and the Multiple Myeloma Foundation. Drop in Wednesday through Sunday, and visit their website for updated tap offerings.
77 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701
https://www.redtankbrewing.com/
Tonewood Brewing
Tonewood’s two Camden County brewery locations (Barrington and Oaklyn) have developed a reputation for quality tap beers in attractive, modern taprooms. Both locations are pet-friendly and kid-friendly — visit their website for some very polite rules about each!
The Barrington and Oaklyn tap menus vary slightly, but a few notable beers currently reside at both locations. Vertigo Flowers is an inspired American lager with chamomile, citrus and wildflower honey. Improv is a Flagship Double IPA with notes of strawberry, oat and pineapple.
Both Tonewood Brewing locations are open 6 days a week (closed on Mondays). Private events can be reserved on the Barrington location’s mezzanine, and kegs are available to purchase for your home bar.
50 Clements Bridge Rd, Barrington, NJ 08007
215 W Clinton Ave, Oaklyn, NJ 08107
https://www.tonewoodbrewing.com/
Spellbound Brewing
There’s a real sense within the tasting room that Spellbound was created by friends. The Spellbound theme is evident throughout its branding, from the team’s black cat Ester to its dreamy crescent moon logo. The South Jersey brewery has certainly cast a spell on its followers.
The Spellbound Brewing name has picked up steam in recent years thanks to a mixture of great core brands and seasonal offerings. Its best beers include the Cherry Belgian Tripel and the intriguing Arcana Ginger Lemongrass Ale (5.5% ABV with notes of ginger, citrus and gentle hops).
Reasons to love Spellbound: Spellbound has donated over $230,000 to local efforts, giving back to the Burlington County community it serves. The tasting room is open Wednesday-Sunday (you may even meet Ester!), with brewmaster Matt Kennedy manning the taps and offering expert suggestions.
10 Lippincott Ln #12, Mount Holly, NJ 08060
https://www.spellboundbrewing.com/
Twin Elephant Brewing Company
Many people overlook Morris County when discussing the north Jersey craft beer community. Twin Elephant is quickly changing that narrative with its gorgeous taproom and a portfolio with a commitment to classic beer styles.
The “suds list” at Twin Elephant features a varied selection reliant on fresh ingredients and classic recipes. The result is a menu that is highly drinkable and relatable. Patrons like the Dr. Octagon American IPA for its melon and citrus kick, and the smooth malt of Rugged Snuggle American brown porter.
Reasons to love Twin Elephant: The taproom exudes Morris County’s historic charm, with rich wood accents and dark colors. Operating hours are Wednesday-Sunday, with special family-friendly hours on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Twin Elephant recommends reservations, which are easily made on its website.
13 Watchung Ave, Chatham, NJ 07928
https://www.twinelephant.com/
New Jersey Breweries Offer So Much to Love
It’s a testament to the Garden State brewing scene that we’ve barely scratched the surface of the state’s breweries. From the NYC suburbs to the Jersey Shore to south Jersey, the New Jersey craft beer scene has never been hotter.
Whichever New Jersey beer company on this list you choose to support, you’ll certainly leave happy. Discover some of the best beers in the state, sit back and enjoy the journey.
