Where to Drink Craft Beer Before Heading to MetLife Stadium

The craft beer scene in New Jersey has absolutely exploded over the last decade. Whether you want to grab a flight of IPAs near your hotel or find a sprawling beer garden where hundreds of fans are singing chants before heading to the MetLife gates, the Meadowlands region has you covered.

1. Ghost Hawk Brewing Company (Clifton, NJ)

Located incredibly close to the stadium, Ghost Hawk was Passaic County's very first craft brewery. They specialize in highly drinkable, traditional styles alongside modern hazy IPAs. The taproom has an industrial, welcoming vibe, and because it is practically in the shadow of the stadium, it is guaranteed to be packed with supporters on matchday. They do not serve food, but local food trucks are always parked right outside.

2. Pilsener Haus & Biergarten (Hoboken, NJ)

If you want the authentic European football atmosphere, this massive Austro-Hungarian beer garden in Hoboken is the place to be. With giant wooden tables, incredible soft pretzels, bratwursts, and an exhaustive list of European and local craft beers, it is the ultimate pre-match gathering hub. Hoboken also has direct train access via Secaucus to MetLife.

3. Bolero Snort Brewery (Carlstadt, NJ)

Famous for their incredibly creative (and sometimes bizarre) flavor combinations, Bolero Snort is located essentially adjacent to the Meadowlands sports complex. If you enjoy pastry stouts, heavily fruited sours, and experimental brewing, their massive tasting room is a must-visit.

Logistics for Brewery Hopping

• NJ Brewery Laws:

  In New Jersey, breweries are heavily restricted on serving food. Expect to order delivery to the taproom or eat at a food truck outside.

• Rideshare Availability:

  Ubers are incredibly easy to catch from breweries in Clifton and Carlstadt directly to the stadium tailgate lots.

• Pacing Yourself:

  Remember that summer matches at MetLife can be incredibly hot. Drink water between high-ABV craft beers before sitting in the sun.