Best Craft Breweries In Northern New Jersey

With the craft beer boom in full swing, it’s often hard to separate the good from the great and the meh from the just plain awful. However, you can count on the Garden State for homegrown beers that are made by hand, and of course, with love, that rival any corporate beer company or big-name breweries.

Want to taste for yourself? Here are the best craft breweries in Northern New Jersey.

NJ Beer Co.

Brewery

If you’re looking for a low-key, no-frills brewery that also happens to make some of the best beer in town, NJ Beer Co. is it. Housed in an old warehouse in the tiny town of North Bergen, NJ Beer Co. has a welcoming and fun vibe without the attitude of a beer snob. Although they could certainly claim bragging rights, they’d rather share a pint and some barstool wisdom instead. Try their popular LBIPA for a hoppy brew inspired by a favorite Jersey Shore locale.

Alementary Brewing Co.

Brewery

Nestled in the heart of Hackensack, Alementary Brewing Co. has quickly become a fan favorite among craft beer lovers in Northern New Jersey. They brew their beers on premises in an industrial-style space where you, your friends and your pup (dogs are welcome!) can enjoy a wide and well-rounded selection. Looking for something truly unique? Alementary is known for an eccentric craft brew, Smoked Peach Kolsch, that has a surprisingly smoky taste. It’s the perfect summertime sip.

Bolero Snort Brewery

Brewery

This Jersey brewery is known for its ability to bring together old-world brewing techniques with a modern twist, and boy did they get it right. Based in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, Bolero Snort produces handcrafted ales and lagers that you can easily find on tap in almost any local bar. Give their two regular releases a try, the Rotatabull, an IPA-style brew and the amber lager, Ragin’ Bull.

Kane Brewing

Brewery

This brewing behemoth is one of the Garden State’s most popular craft brews and can be found in many restaurants and bars in and around New Jersey. Made locally in Ocean Township, near the coast, Kane focuses primarily on creating delicious and high-quality American-style and Belgian ales craft beers. Swing by their brewery for a tour or a drink at the bar where you can try their famous Kane Head High IPA.

Cricket Hill Brewery

Brewery

One of Cricket Hill Brewery’s claims to fame is its status as one of the first craft breweries in New Jersey. Founded in 2001, this Fairfield brewery makes small batch releases of flavorful and good quality beers that you can drink year-round, as well as a seasonal brew here and there. Check out their bar and tasting room and make sure you sample the East Coast Lager while you’re there.