The Coney Island Brewing Company, which was founded in 2007, was once deemed the smallest brewery in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records. From 2011 to 2012, out of a rent-free space in Sideshows by the Seashore, the company was producing only one gallon of beer per batch. This summer, they opened a new brewing house right in front of the Brooklyn Cyclone’s ballpark in the heart of Coney Island, Brooklyn. You’ll also catch a glimpse of one of the Coney Art Walls just outside the entrance.
Kegs and black and white photos of Coney Island
Coney Island Brewing Company logo
The new space is by no means that much bigger. At a mere 1,500 square feet, the brewery houses a bar, a couple tanks, and a few kegs. Walking through the door, you can basically take in the entire space in one glance but there’s still plenty to see. Each corner of the brewery pays a little homage to Coney Island, from carousel-themed wallpapers and old black and white photos of the Island. Their logo includes the famous Wonder Wheel, the Parachute Jump and the Cyclone roller coaster.
Draft beer taps
Coney Island Lager
The beers also embody the spirit of the Coney Island, with names like Mermaid Pilsner, 1609 Amber Ale, and Overpass Ipa. We tasted the Coney Island Lager – a beer the brewery claims is inspired by “The Playground of the World.” It was a delicious dry-hopped American lager, refreshingly balanced with a complex malt backbone. The brewery, which hand mixes the beers, according to The Culturist, now produces 12 to 20 kegs per batch.
Wonder Wheel on Coney Island
The thrills and old rides at Coney Island lend themselves to easy scares and spooks around Halloween. Even the island’s mascot resembles a terrifying version of the Joker. In the spirit of the season, the Coney Island Brewing Company is embracing the island’s eerie side by hosting a week-long “Freak Week.” This first annual event will be held from October 25th to October 31st. If you can’t make it to “Freak Week,” the brewery holds tours from 4pm to 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays and from 1pm to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
For more on breweries and beer halls throughout the city, take a look at our list of the 10 best beer halls. Also, learn more about the history of the Coney Island Brewing Company.
