Founded in 2000 and opening to the public in 2002 with their flagship beers East Coast Lager and American Ale, Cricket Hill Brewing Company has become an important part of New Jersey’s microbrewery movement. It’s currently producing Colonel Blide’s Bitter and Hopnotic IPA as well as seasonal beers such as Jersey Summer Breakfast Ale, Fall Festivus, Paymasters Porter and Maibock. Rick Reed, founder of the New Jersey Beer Rebellion, is the head brewer and CEO.
Located in a warehouse area off Route 46 near Willowbrook Mall, Cricket Hill’s 15-barrel brewhouse is still a stalwart, with a 50-year-old bottling line from Germany kicking off the brewing process. While more fermentors have been added, it’s the old-school brewing equipment that continues to chug out their four year-round and three seasonal beers.
The brewery has an impressive lineup of IPAs, pale ales, stouts and barrel aged beers, making it a popular destination for visitors who are looking for something different from the big names that dominate the beer scene in New Jersey. They also have a tasting room, which is open seven days a week.
Tasting room serves pints, flights, growler fills and kegs. Be sure to check the tasting room’s Facebook page for up-to-date hours, upcoming releases and events.
This small, craft brewery is located in a warehouse location that doesn’t look like it would fit a brewery, but surprisingly the inside is quite nice and cozy. There’s a lot of seating and tables for everyone, with a good selection of beers on tap that will please any palate.
It’s a fun place to visit with the family, especially during the summer. Their beers are tasty, and you can find some good eats there too. They’re a little pricey though, so be aware of that before you go.
The brewery is located in a warehouse setting, but the inside is quite lovely and there’s plenty of seating. They’re also a good place to bring kids, as the bar is large and they can see everything going on.
They’re also a great place to go if you’re in the mood for a little live music. They have a band that plays every Thursday night.
There’s also a big outdoor area in front of the brewery that’s a great place to enjoy the summer weather and eat some tasty treats. It’s a fun place to visit for a weekend out with the kids or by yourself!
