Craft beer is great for two reasons: it is always in season and it has the ability to bring everyone together. Even national statistics — yes, there is beer drinker data — illustrate that the number of people who identify themselves as craft beer lovers are consistently increasing across demographics, each year.
According to the Brewers Association, ale drinkers come from all backgrounds and they, “identify with brands that are independent, local, and that align with core concepts including authenticity, community, and sustainability.”
This is probably why the following New Jersey brewing companies have seen rapid growth in the last few years. Each of these brewing companies is dedicated to providing, unique, quality beers to the local communities they serve. And, most importantly, they give everyone a place to come together and have a good time. Bring your family, friends, your pups and, most importantly, your growler to these awesome NJ spots:
1. Slacktide Brewing Company – Clermont, NJ (10 minutes from most southern NJ shore points)
This dog friendly, shoreside brewing company has become a fast favorite to locals and tourists alike! Probably because of their original brews, friendly staff, and weekly specials on tap. Two specials to try: Monkey Face Stout (infused with Nutella, Nilla Wafers, and hazelnuts) and the Special Portly Mermaid (infused with strawberries and chocolate). A classics like Angry Osprey also does not disappoint… and did I mention you can join their Mug Club? Check out their website or stop by for more details on this annual membership which offers you beer discounts and more.
2. Lunacy Brewing Company – Haddon Heights, NJ
Founded in 2011 in the back of an old print shop by four friends, Lunacy brewing company boasts that it delivers all the goods; “No frills. Just good beer, good people and good times.”
And they are accurate! I would recommend trying the “Rocket Chocolate Peanut Butter Stout” or the “Lunacy IPA”. It’s less than 15 minutes from the Ben Franklin Bridge which leads into the Old City District of Philadelphia and they often host events like their Sunday AM Yoga! Nothing like following up your happy baby pose with a wheat beer like their Baby Belgium Blonde brew. Namaste.
*Please Note: Dogs are allowed on the property but must be leashed and kept in the sectioned area outside
3. Icarus Brewing Company – Lakewood, NJ
This brewing company may be young – the company started in the end of 2015, but they have already sold over 26,000 pints of their delicious brews across the Northern and southern regions of NJ. Icarus Brewing really loves to experiment with flavors that stimulate the taste buds. A couple upcoming brews that sound particularly innovative and delicious: Kiwi Habanero Pale Ale and the Russian Imperial Stout w/ Local Coffee. YUM! And I cannot forget to mention, they have an awesome assistant …dog! Stop by and you may have a chance to taste their concoction and play with their furry pal Chewy! (pictured below).
Love this idea? Still looking for more options to try? Check out these dog friendly brewing companies too:
