Little Dog Brewing Co.

Little Dog Brewing Co.: Traditional Ales with a Local Heart in Neptune City, NJ

For the craft beer aficionado who appreciates classic styles brewed with expertise and passion, Little Dog Brewing Co. in Neptune City, New Jersey, is a must-visit. Founded in 2014 by veteran New Jersey Brewmaster Gretchen Schmidhausler, Little Dog quickly established itself as a beacon for well-crafted, traditional English and German-style ales, setting it apart in a landscape often dominated by modern trends. Schmidhausler, recognized as the first female brewmaster in New Jersey, brings a wealth of experience and award-winning skill to every batch.

Key Features You’ll Love at Little Dog:

• Masterful Traditional Styles: Little Dog is renowned for its dedication to brewing true-to-style English and German ales. Expect perfectly executed Altbiers like their flagship “Gesundheit!”, robust “Seafarer’s Stout,” crisp “DuckBoy Pale Ale,” and refreshing “Local Girl Blonde Ale.” Their focus on these foundational styles offers a welcome change of pace for palates seeking balance and depth.
• Brewmaster-Led Experience: Owner and Brewmaster Gretchen Schmidhausler is often on-site and known for her friendly demeanor and willingness to discuss beer and the brewing process. This personal touch provides a unique opportunity to learn from a respected figure in the New Jersey craft beer scene.
• Cozy and Welcoming Taproom: Reviewers consistently highlight the homey and comfortable vibe of the brewery. It’s a quaint, intimate space that fosters conversation and enjoyment of the beer.
• Dog-Inspired Charm (but no furry friends inside!): While the brewery’s spirit and logo are directly inspired by Gretchen’s beloved Basenji, Quincy, please note that the taproom is for people only.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located, Little Dog Brewing Co. offers plenty of free parking and is an easy walk (about 4 blocks) from the Bradley Beach Train Station, making it accessible for those traveling without a car. It’s also fully handicapped accessible.
• Retail Sales: Beyond enjoying a pint on-site, you can take home their quality brews in 32 and 64 oz. growlers, as well as 22-oz bottles. Little Dog beers can also be found at select bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout New Jersey.
• Local Community Hub: Despite its small size, Little Dog is a cherished part of the local community, often lauded for its friendly staff and genuine interest in customer satisfaction.

Regular Events:

Little Dog Brewing Co. tends to focus on the quality of their beer and a relaxed atmosphere. While they may not have a rigid schedule of weekly events like trivia or open mic nights, they are known to occasionally host:

• Special Release Parties: Keep an eye out for announcements of new seasonal or limited-release beers, often accompanied by special taproom hours or events.
• Community Gatherings: Being a local favorite, they may host or participate in smaller, community-focused events.

Website:

For their current tap list, hours of operation, and any upcoming special announcements, visit their official website: http://www.gretchenbrew.com/