New York State is a craft beer paradise, boasting a vibrant and diverse brewing scene. From iconic pioneers to innovative newcomers, the Empire State has something for every beer enthusiast. Here’s a curated list of the best breweries in New York, highlighting their standout beers, unique qualities, and why they’ve earned their spot on this list.
Other Half Brewing Co. (Brooklyn)
Why They’re Great: Other Half is synonymous with the hazy IPA craze, and their beers are sought after nationwide. They’ve mastered the art of juicy, hop-forward beers that are bursting with flavor. Other Half’s limited can releases often draw long lines of eager fans, creating a cult-like following. Their collaborations with other breweries and their ability to consistently push the boundaries of hop-forward beers. Their Brooklyn taproom is a must-visit for beer pilgrims.
Beers to Try
- Other Half All Citra Everything (a hazy IPA)
- Double Mosaic Dream (double IPA)
- Green City (pale ale).
Website: https://otherhalfbrewing.com/
Hudson Valley Brewery (Beacon)
Why They’re Great: Known for their innovative sour IPAs, Hudson Valley Brewery blends tartness and hoppy bitterness in a way that’s truly unique. Hudson Valley Brewery’s beers often blur the line between beer and art, making them a favorite among creative types. Their artistic approach to brewing and packaging, with each beer featuring stunning label art. Their taproom in Beacon is a cozy, artistic space.
Beers to Try
- Sour IPA Series (rotating flavors)
- Amulet (a tart farmhouse ale)
- Cherry Culture (a fruited sour).
Website: https://hudsonvalleybrewery.com/
Tree House Brewing Company (Sand Lake)
Why They’re Great: Originally from Massachusetts, Tree House expanded to New York with a stunning facility in Sand Lake. They’re renowned for their hazy IPAs and impeccable quality. Tree House’s original Massachusetts location is one of the most famous breweries in the U.S., and their New York expansion has been equally celebrated. Their commitment to freshness and quality, with a focus on draft and cans sold directly to consumers. The Sand Lake location features a beautiful taproom and outdoor space.
Beers to Try
- Julius (hazy IPA)
- Green (pale ale)
- Very Hazy (double IPA).
Website: https://treehousebrew.com/
Threes Brewing (Brooklyn & Hudson Valley)
Why They’re Great: Threes Brewing is a leader in balanced, approachable beers, with a focus on lagers and pilsners. They also excel in IPAs and experimental brews. Their emphasis on community and collaboration, with a welcoming taproom that doubles as a venue for live music and events. Threes Brewing’s Gowanus location is a favorite among locals for its laid back vibe and excellent food menu.
Beers to Try
- Vliet (pilsner)
- Logical Conclusion (IPA)
- Superficial Knowledge (sour ale).
Website: https://threesbrewing.com/
Equilibrium Brewery (Middletown)
Why They’re Great: Equilibrium is a science driven brewery that focuses on IPAs and stouts, with a reputation for bold, flavorful beers. Their use of data and experimentation to perfect their recipes. Their taproom is sleek and modern, reflecting their scientific approach. Equilibrium’s name reflects their philosophy of balancing science and art in brewing.
Beers to Try
- MC² (double IPA)
- Fermion (hazy IPA)
- Energy Equals (imperial stout).
Website: https://www.eqbrew.com/
Sloop Brewing Co. (Elizaville & East Fishkill)
Why They’re Great: Sloop is known for their juicy, approachable IPAs and their commitment to sustainability. Their beers are crisp, clean, and full of flavor. Sloop’s Juice Bomb is one of the most popular hazy IPAs in the Northeast. Sloop’s solar powered brewery in Elizaville is one of the most sustainable in the state. Their East Fishkill location is family-friendly with a spacious taproom.
Beers to Try
- Juice Bomb (hazy IPA)
- Confliction (sour ale)
- Super Soft (session IPA).
Website: https://www.sloopbrewing.com/
Captain Lawrence Brewing Co. (Elmsford)
Why They’re Great: A pioneer in New York’s craft beer scene, Captain Lawrence has been producing high quality beers since 2006. They’re known for their diverse lineup, from IPAs to barrel-aged sours. Their barrel-aging program is one of the best in the state, producing complex and flavorful sour beers. Captain Lawrence’s founder, Scott Vaccaro, started brewing in his dorm room at Penn State.
Beers to Try
- Freshchester Pale Ale
- Rosé (barrel-aged sour)
- Liquid Gold (Belgian-style ale)
Website: https://www.captainlawrencebrewing.com/elmsford/
Industrial Arts Brewing Company (Garnerville & Beacon)
Why They’re Great: Industrial Arts focuses on clean, well crafted beers, with a particular emphasis on lagers and IPAs. Their beers are crisp and refreshing. Their sleek, modern branding and commitment to precision in brewing. Their Garnerville location is housed in a historic mill. Industrial Arts’ Wrench is a go-to IPA for many New Yorkers, thanks to its balance and drinkability.
Beers to Try
- Wrench (IPA)
- Metric (pilsner)
- Torque Wrench (double IPA).
Website: https://www.industrialartsbrewing.com/
SingleCut Beersmiths (Astoria)
Why They’re Great: SingleCut is known for their bold, hoppy beers and rock and roll inspired branding. Their IPAs and lagers are packed with flavor. SingleCut’s founder, Rich Buceta, is a former music industry executive who brings his love of rock to every aspect of the brewery. Their music-themed beers and taproom, which often hosts live performances. Their Astoria location is a favorite among Queens locals.
Beers to Try
- 18-Watt (IPA)
- Softly Spoken Magic Spells (double IPA)
- Jan (white ale)
Website: https://www.singlecut.com/
Finger Lakes Beer Company (Clifton Springs)
Why They’re Great: Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes, this brewery focuses on farmhouse ales and beers that highlight local ingredients. Finger Lakes Beer Company is part of a larger agricultural project that includes a farm and event space. Their taproom offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Beers to Try
- Lake House Lager
- Farmhouse Ale
- Hoppy IPA
Website: https://fingerlakesbeercompany.com/
Brooklyn Brewery – (Brooklyn)
Founded in 1988, Brooklyn Brewery played a pivotal role in revitalizing the craft beer movement in New York City. Their Brooklyn Lager, an American amber lager, is widely acclaimed for its rich flavor and balance. The brewery’s influence extends beyond beer, contributing significantly to the cultural renaissance of Brooklyn.
Website: https://brooklynbrewery.com/
Honorable Mentions
Grimm Artisanal Ales (Brooklyn) – Known for their creative and experimental beers.
Suarez Family Brewery (Livingston) – Specializing in lagers and farmhouse ales.
Community Beer Works (Buffalo) – A small but mighty brewery with a focus on community and quality.
Evil Twin Brewing (Booklyn & Queens) – Known for creating unique smoothie-style sours, oak aged lagers, hoppy beers, and barrel aged stouts.
New York State’s craft breweries offer a rich tapestry of flavors and styles, reflecting both tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a hophead, a sour lover, or a fan of classic lagers, New York State’s breweries have something to offer. Each of these breweries brings its own unique flair to the craft beer scene, making New York a great destination for beer enthusiasts.
If we overlooked your favorite New York brewery, please tell us about it in the comments section below. We’re always looking for a new brewery to try!
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