It was just another ordinary [summer] Friday. We weren't looking to review a brewery. We were, however, looking for some brews (aren't we always?). After a great flight at Oyster Bay Brewing Co., and a cool conversation with one of the owners, we knew writing up a lil' something was a must.
Now, if your GPS is anything like ours, you may pass the brewery when you hear the trusty You have now arrived at your destination. Don't worry - it's there. You just have to turn into the block.
I was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming and genuine atmosphere. You really feel like you're in a brewery when you're there - not just a bar that's making beers in some mysterious room you can't see. The guy I assumed was the bartender greeted us right away and asked which flight we'd like to try. We went with the 5 beer tasting - which I'd suggest to anyone who visits. It will give you a real feel for all they offer.
The flight goes in this order: Lawn Mower Ale, Honey Ale, Wheat, Amber, IPA. My favorite thing about this and this brewery? There is something here for everyone. Even that uncle who only drinks Bud Light will find a beer he can enjoy. In fact we had this exact conversation with the bartender who turned out to be one of the owners (how cool is that?). Ryan shared that this was actually the inspiration behind their Lawn Mower Ale. Not an IPA fan? Not sure what an IPA is? Is Bud Light all your taste buds can handle? Drink the Lawn Mower Ale and you'll be good to go. Rather, your uncle will be good to go while you indulge in something a little more intense.
By the time we got to the IPA, we learned that Oyster Bay Brewing Co. is a family run business, started by Long Island natives/friends, Ryan and Gabe. They, like many, found their passion for beer in college. A few homebrew kits later (plus some time spent at their cousin's brewery) and this awesome establishment was born. If you're lucky, you might even visit on a day when their wives are behind the bar.
We left with a 32 oz. growler of their IPA (which tastes enjoyably bitter) and ate some oysters up the block. If that's not a great summer combo, I don't know what is. We won't be waiting until next summer to visit the area again though. Apparently there is some greatness called Oyster Fest taking place in the neighborhood in October. So, we'll be there. Eating oysters and visiting our friends at Oyster Bay Brewing Co. again.
Conclusion? Take a trip to Oyster Bay Brewing Co. They're family run, inviting, and you're sure to find something you'll enjoy - wherever on the spectrum of beer flavors you fall. If you're new to craft beer, even better. They're still small enough where you can ask a few questions and learn more about what kind of beer really suits you. They're not serving full pints just yet (it's coming any day now) but man do we look forward to when they do!
