Right before Christmas (and before the latest Covid spike), Laura and I raced off to Surfridge Brewing Company, a new taproom/eatery in Centerbrook. Laura has been stalking the place for months and managed to finagle an invite to the soft opening. Let’s start by saying we have no idea about the beer because we didn’t try it. The cocktail list (think hand-crafted and infused) was way too tempting to bother ourselves with brews! Try The Forager, a delightful and curious concoction of Hen of the Woods mushrooms, Agave spirit, and cinnamon syrup with a salt/sugar rim.

As per our usual, we ordered heavily (and went back the next night for more): Wood-fired pizzas, yummy crostini with smoked bluefish dip, I’ll never turn down pork belly, here glazed with soy and honey and served with a refreshing slaw. I know I’m a bit of a freak when it comes to a well-dressed salad, but they’ve got it down: a pile of Bibb lettuce, slim apple slices, blue cheese, and walnuts, barely tossed in vinaigrette. Next time, I’m trying the Roasted Cauliflower, Octopus, or the Bone Marrow. All in all, an intriguing menu!

It’s not the first rodeo for the California couple behind Surfridge. They know what they’re doing. In fact, you can visit the taproom in El Segundo, too. We think the Witch Hazel Works is the perfect home for their innovative mix of salads, small plates, larger plates, fresh wood-fired pizza, and an oyster bar. In short, not only something for everyone but truly the way we like to eat these days.

The space is giant and lofty, with three separate bars (cocktails, oysters, and beer), plus plenty of seating, and a cozy lounge area, all surprisingly kid-friendly, evidenced by the number of families with tots in toe. We simply can’t wait for the outdoor patio to open, and (hint, hint) we’re hoping for some heaters so we can enjoy it during another long Covid winter.

Find the menus on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfridgebeereast/

https://www.surfridgebrewery.com

6 Main Street, Building 3 in Centerbrook

Hours:
Thursday thru Monday | 4pm – 10pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday