Fresh brewed beers out in the open in Manhattan at Birreria
Happy Columbus Day – and speaking of great Italian/American discoveries – how about Birreria in New York City – by the Flatiron Building at 200 5th Avenue?
A dream child of the ever prolific Sam Calagione (Italian heritage you think?) of Dogfish and Italian craft brewers Baladin and Del Borgo (they called themselves the Brews Brothers) Birreria sits on top of the over-the-top charcuterie “Eataly“. Imagine sitting in the sun on a rooftop in Manhattan (OK, shade mostly) sipping on imaginative and flavorful fresh brewed beers like “Gina” a Thyme infused Pale Ale, or Baladin Nora – made with Spelt, Ginger and Myrrh.
Along with these and some other Italian brews I had never heard of, you can also quaff Dogfish Theobroma, Raison D’Etre and the very enjoyable “My Antonia” a powerful Imperial Pilsner clocking at 7.5%ABV.
There was an extensive menu of Italian and Austrian delicacies (Farm raised quail, Contorini (pickled veggies), Sausages, Salami’s, etc.) and though I was focused on the beer, many “beautiful people” enjoyed aromatic plates around me. Now, the only downside (knew it was coming, didn’t you) is that this experience isn’t for those low on funds. The house drafts are $10 a pop, with most imports $7 – $10. So, you will likely be tapped out at the taps here, but what the heck — you are in New York, on top of the world.
On your way out, if you have any change, check out the massive quantity of exotic bottled beers to go for some very interesting and hard to find Italian craft beers – some flavored with chocolate or blueberries or expresso.
Enjoy the view, and toast Columbus!
Reach for the sky (and a beer) on the Birreria Rooftop
