Descendants Brewing Company at the Old Ship Inn

Descendants Brewing Company at the Old Ship Inn is a historic brewpub located at 61 Bridge Street in Milford, New Jersey. Housed in a charming 1879 Victorian building, it is recognized as New Jersey’s first craft brewery, originally established as The Ship Inn in 1995. The current owners, Joe and Ana David, have revitalized the space while preserving its rich heritage, offering a unique blend of history, craft beer, and culinary delights.

Features & Atmosphere

• Historic Ambiance: The interior boasts original tin ceilings, exposed brick walls, and nautical decor. Notably, the bar top is crafted from reclaimed wood from a former bowling alley, adding to the venue’s rustic charm.

• Diverse Dining Spaces: Guests can choose from various seating areas, including a creek-side deck with views of the millrace, a communal bier hall-style area accommodating up to 30 people, and intimate tables fashioned from ship hatch covers, likely from World War II liberty ships.
• Extensive Beverage Selection: Beyond their house-brewed ales, Descendants offers a full bar featuring over 160 whiskies, earning recognition as one of the top five whiskey collections in New Jersey.
• Culinary Offerings: The menu is a fusion of American favorites and European specialties, reflecting the owners’ diverse heritage. Dishes range from classic fish & chips and shepherd’s pie to Belgian and German-inspired entrees.
• Live Entertainment & Events: The brewery hosts weekly live music and themed events, such as “Mugger Monday,” featuring new beer releases and other promotions.