One Saturday afternoon, Amy, Linds and I took the subway and then the bus to the Brewery to meet up with friends for one of Chelsea Brewery's free tours. Although the Brewery is on a pier on the Hudson, it couldn't have been easier to cross Manhattan. We took the 6 down to Union Square, where we hopped on a crosstown bus that dropped us off across the street from the piers!
Waiting in the rain for the bus.
Linds and I at Chelsea Piers!
Inside the Brewery - our selection!
The inside of the Brewery was beautiful - floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Hudson, with a long oak bar and plenty of seating - at the bar, in booths, at dinner tables, and even an upstairs party room!
In the dining area - looking through the glass at the beer tanks.
Once there, we assembled our group and signed up for the tour with Brewmaster Mark. We had about 10 people and got a private tour!
Being educated.
Free samples!
Everybody's so happy!
Mark taught us everything there is to know about brewing.
With a growler!
(And wearing leggings! I love autumn).
Brewmaster Mark sharing the knowledge.
Our tour was probably about 40 minutes or so.
The group (minus Amy) - Matt, Annie, Linds, Greg, Cody, Amanda and Lauren.
After the tour we snagged a table and settled in for dinner and some beer as more of our friends filtered in. Everything on the menu turned out to be delicious, and of course the beer was too!
Pumpkin Pie Beer - the best ever!
Cheers!
Amy and I hiding.
Kate!
Our group eventually was moved into a couple of separate booths to make room for a 60 person tour group from Europe! It was ok though, the booths were very comfortable.
View from our booths - check out all the boats docked right outside!
Also, there's a golf course on the pier, on the right.
Unfortunately Chelsea Brewery does not bottle any of their beers - you have to buy a growler there (or a keg!), or visit one of the 75 bars that they supply. I'd say the best place to drink their brews would be at their beautiful brewery!
