Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Beer Lovers
Top Things to Do in New York City for Beer Lovers
1. McSorley's Old Ale House
Step into NYC’s oldest continuously operating bar, where sawdust floors, memorabilia, and two house ales define a time-capsule beer experience.
✓ Why Go:
It’s living beer history—simple, sessionable ales served in pairs and an atmosphere untouched by trends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before 5 pm to avoid the after-work crush; weekend afternoons fill quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring cash and order a cheese-and-crackers plate to complete the old-school vibe.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the no-frills charm and storied ambiance; some note crowds and limited beer choices.
2. Other Half Brewing
Brooklyn’s haze headquarters pours coveted IPAs, big stouts, and crisp lagers in a lively taproom near the Gowanus Canal.
✓ Why Go:
Consistently top-tier releases and a draft list that showcases modern hop expression.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoons Monday–Thursday; weekend can releases draw lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Opt for half pours to explore more styles; check the fridge for limited cans to-go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beer geeks praise the hop-forward lineup; occasional remarks about noise and crowds.
3. Torst
Greenpoint’s minimalist temple to beer offers a meticulously curated draft list emphasizing Danish, Belgian, and avant-garde American brews.
✓ Why Go:
Insider-level selection, proper glassware, and a contemplative setting ideal for tasting rare finds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weekdays for the best seat and freshest pours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for half pours to sample more of the rotating draft menu without overcommitting.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Highly regarded for selection and service; some consider it pricier than average.
4. Blind Tiger Ale House
A cornerstone of NYC craft since the ’90s, this West Village staple features a deep tap list, cask ale, and a cozy, brick-lined space.
✓ Why Go:
Frequent tap takeovers and rare kegs make it a must-stop for variety hunters.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons Monday–Thursday; Wednesday events can be packed but rewarding.
✓ Insider Tip:
Look for the cask engine—real ale is a house specialty when available.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved for breadth and vibe; expect standing-room-only at peak times.
5. Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden
Queens’ century-old beer garden pairs Czech lagers with hearty pub fare under shade trees and string lights.
✓ Why Go:
A sprawling outdoor classic perfect for groups, sunny afternoons, and easy-drinking pilsners.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Warm-weather weekends for peak atmosphere; evenings in spring and fall are pleasantly mellow.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the grilled sausages and sit near the perimeter for quicker table service.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the communal energy and old-world charm; lines can form on hot days.
6. Radegast Hall & Biergarten
Williamsburg’s lively beer hall pours German and Central European styles alongside sizzling bratwurst from the in-house grill.
✓ Why Go:
Big steins, live music, and communal tables deliver a festive, beer-first experience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon to early evening; weekends bring a party atmosphere.
✓ Insider Tip:
Hit the grill counter for fresh pretzels and sausages to pair with your lager.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for atmosphere and selection; some mention noise levels at peak hours.
7. The Grand Delancey
A Lower East Side draft destination with dozens of taps—lagers, sours, and hard-to-find collabs—set inside the Market Line.
✓ Why Go:
Curated variety plus easy access to excellent nearby food vendors for perfect pairings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after 7 pm once the commuter rush subsides; weekend afternoons for relaxed sampling.
✓ Insider Tip:
Build your own flight with small pours and grab bites from Market Line stalls to bring to your table.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Consistently lauded for range and freshness; a few note it can be chilly due to the market setting.
8. Grimm Artisanal Ales
A design-forward Williamsburg taproom known for mixed-fermentation sours, elegant lagers, and decadent stouts.
✓ Why Go:
Boundary-pushing styles and polished ambiance make it a destination for modern craft.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evenings on weekdays; weekend afternoons for a social vibe without the late-night rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the bottle list for limited barrel-aged releases not on draft.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans celebrate the creativity and quality; occasional comments about premium pricing.
9. As Is NYC
Hell’s Kitchen favorite pouring a sharp, rotating tap list—from crispy pils to wild ales—in a sleek, plant-filled space.
✓ Why Go:
Thoughtful curation and attentive bartenders make it ideal for exploring new-to-you breweries.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Pre-theater hours on weekdays; it’s a smart stop before a late show.
✓ Insider Tip:
Snag a bar seat for the best guidance on what to try next.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for balance of hype and classic styles; can feel snug at peak times.
10. Evil Twin Brewing NYC
A playful Queens taproom set around a greenhouse garden, pouring inventive sours, hop bombs, and dessert-inspired beers.
✓ Why Go:
Creative, conversation-starting beers and a photogenic space that’s equally good for lingering.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunny weekend afternoons for the patio; weekday evenings for a quieter tasting.
✓ Insider Tip:
Look for slushee-style sours and small-batch drops that vanish fast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the whimsical menu and setting; limited indoor seating noted during bad weather.
