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    Back East Brewing Company

    4.6 (101 reviews)
    ModerateBreweries
    Closed 12:00 pm - 9:00 PM

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    The patio
    Ana B.

    I haven't been to the Back East Brewery in years. Last night I stopped by to meet a friend. This brewery makes me feel like this town is much larger then it is, with roads accessing this brewery, I've never noticed before. This brewery is pretty big. There was a private event when I first walked inside. They have plenty of seating options, inside, outside on the patio, as well as on the lawn. They have live music, but unfortunately by the time I arrived the band was wrapping up. I got one of the sour beer cocktails, Maine Squeeze. This is a grapefruit, lime sour with blueberries and blueberry juice mixed in. This looked incredible and tasted even better. It was tart, but sweet and so refreshing. We sat outside on their patio where we chatted and enjoyed our beers, and we stayed until closing.

    Alexandra C.

    Back East Brewery is one of my favorite breweries in Connecticut. The vibes are chill, the space is beautiful, and the outdoor seating area is such a win. There are comfy chairs perfect for soaking up the sun, and a shaded section if you need a break from it. Inside, the space is just as great, with thoughtful updates over the years, including the addition of a full kitchen (huge win!). I meant to take a photo of the chicken tenders, but they disappeared before I had a chance. Seriously, they were that good. As always, the beer selection is top-notch. I tried the Blast Off Close Encounters (DIPA. I believe it was 11% ABV), and even a half pour was more than enough. They also have a great menu if you're in the mood to sample a flight and find your new go to. Kids, babies, and families all blended in perfectly, and there's even video games and a Nintendo if you're feeling nostalgic. It's a big enough space that it never feels cramped, and the energy is always just right. Shoutout to Ice Cream Man, which is easily one of my favorite beers and the one that got me hooked on craft beer in the first place many years ago. If you're new to breweries or looking to explore something beyond the basics on tap, this is the place. The staff is amazing as always. Super friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready with samples or solid recommendations based on what you like. If you're into craft beer, Back East Brewery is a must visit in Connecticut. It's practically a rite of passage.

    Ice cream man  for my hubby!
    Nancy F.

    The music tonight was amazing! The taproom was packed but we were able to find spots at the bar. I had the Mediterranean platter which was packed!Tzatziki, hummus, feta, Greek olives, carrots, falafel, cake slices and grape tomatoes. So large I took half home. The atmosphere is fantastic! All ages welcome!

    Summer ale
    Kim D.

    Was surprised by this place! The beer was good - got the summer ale. I usually have my doubts on food at breweries but the wraps I had were delicious. There was an outdoor space as well as activities to keep you entertained. I'd recommend!

    Marney R.

    Great vibe and good selection of beer for all tastes. We went on a live music night. Perfect addition to chill rainy evening.

    I claimed this column as mine.
    Bill Z.

    Over the past year, I've discovered just how many great breweries one can find in Connecticut, and Back East certainly ranks high on that list. They easily accommodated our large group even on a busy Saturday afternoon. The beer selection offers something for everyone. I would have been content to spend the entire afternoon here drinking their peanut butter stout. My only disappointment was that they do not offer flights, but that disappointment was easily pushed aside by ordering half-pours of several beers. The atmosphere was very festive too. On this particular day, there was a food truck in the parking lot too (Fat City Kid, separate review) serving "all the foods" that you would want to have with your beer. Cans of most of their beers were available for purchase in the refrigerated case, and for any of which they were sold out, they were willing to provide you with growlers. Enjoyable beers, enjoyable experience!

    Devang P.

    You have to drive to the backside to get to the entrance. They have plenty of outdoor seating and indoor seating as well. The servers were knowledgeable of their products and it was easy to order. I ordered a few IPAs and enjoyed all of them. They have other options as well. I'm not a big sour beer fan but my party enjoyed it. There was a food truck outside next to the building. Food looked good but didn't order any. They also had a live band playing outside which was nice. If you're in the area the place is worth checking out.

    Collaborative Beer Dinner with Four Dads Pub at Back East Brewery
    Dan R.

    So, what do you get when a very cool pub with some talented cooks collaborates with a very cool brewery with some fantastic beers, and both of them share a love for the Grateful Dead? Well here's what you get -you get a five-course collaborative beer dinner with five beer pairings and a lot of live Grateful Dead music all night by Steelhead. About 65 appreciative dinner guests were treated to all of this in the Back East Brewery's big and gorgeous taproom as we drank their beers and fed our faces on some amazing food prepared by Four Dads Pub. Here's the lineup, and you Grateful Dead fans out there will appreciate how their song titles were weaved into the course descriptions: 1) Bertha Rita paired with an Amuse Bouche starter A margherita with Tequila and BEB's Mango Berliner Weisse served with a bowl of sweet/salty glazed nuts 2) Ramble On Rose paired with Summer Ale BEB Summer Ale served with an incredible watermelon and roasted pork belly salad 3) Dire Wolf paired with Porter BEB's award winning Porter paired with hot and sweet Italian sausage, marinara, peppers, onions, rice, and a big hunk of garlic bread 4) St. Stephen paired with Double Scoop BEB's super popular Double Scoop IPA paired with beer and butter poached shrimp, pineapple and coconut coulis, and jalapeno candied coconut slaw. 5) Ripple paired with Black Raspberry Pound Cake paired with Ice Cream Man BEB's signature beer -Ice Cream Man paired with an amazing dessert - house-made crumb topping and warm mixed berry compote over lemon pound cake (from East Hartford's Perfect Poundcakes) with a scoop of ice cream (from Granby's Grass Roots Ice Cream). Between courses, we heard from representatives of the Pub and Brewery to introduce the various pairings. Congrats to both, this collaboration was a tremendous success.

    Flights and Pours
    Chuck M.

    Fun, mid sized brewery with a great wait staff and large beer menu. This is a solid brewery in that they have something for everyone. The snacks are just ok, but they supplement that with rotating food trucks and we come for the beer and setting anyway. Ice cream man is a solid IPA and their other flavors are fun including Double Scoop or Bubble Scoop, Triple Scoop, lil Scoop, etc. they have some great bottled and aged selections as well. Overall, great little place that always treats its customers right. The brewtenders are well versed on their products and super attentive. Try it if you haven't been before, it's a pleasant surprise.

    Elisa F.

    First time here in several years and they did one hella upgrade!!! If you're familiar with the CT craft beer scene, you know Back East. Their beers are everywhere! They have so many brews on tap so there's something for everyone. They have a whole new gorgeous patio out back and the interior is completely redone since we last visited. Definitely will be here more often!

    Arcade machine and game shelf nestled in the back corner. There's also a foosball table.
    Sara W.

    The number of breweries in Connecticut is (mostly) growing, but since it opened about ten years ago, Back East has continuously improved and grown and is hands-down one of the best breweries in the state at this point. They opened a new taproom directly next to where their old space was. What was once small and kind of felt like a dentist's office waiting room is now spacious and bright and gorgeous. This also gives them more space to brew, which was very much needed given how much they've blown up since they released beers like Ice Cream Man. Speaking of which, they've also opened two checkouts: one for draft pours and one for can sales, because when they have a special release, the line can get pretty long for can sales. Onto the beers. They've got an extensive selection, and when I was there, I remember numerous IPAs (West Coast and NE), a few lagers, a Berlinerweisse, some stouts. Nice change from a lot of local breweries that are pretty much only IPAs at this point. Additionally, they've got some snacks but, but they also have a great food truck schedule when you're looking for something more substantial. Overall, definitely a brewery to check out in Connecticut, especially in the Hartford area. For sure try the Ice Cream Man as it's become what they're really known for, but everything I've ever had is delicious.

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    2 years ago

    Great beer, friendly staff and delicious food! Highly recommend a visit! Outdoor seating too

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    2 years ago

    Awesome beer and environment. They just added a kitchen and the food was great ! Give the Philly cheese steak a try.

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    From the beer to the staff, this place is incredible. Beautiful tap room, huge patio and easy location to find.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Back East Brewing Company

    Review Highlights - Back East Brewing Company

    Not only do they have award winning IPAs, but their menu is expansive and includes a broad variety.

    Mentioned in 12 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Republic Gastropub

    Republic Gastropub

    4.0(471 reviews)
    2.4 mi
    $$

    Republic Gastro Pub was the perfect spot for two childhood friends meeting up in Bloomfield, along…read morewith their husbands, and it could not have been better. There's always a little pressure when a dinner is part reunion, part catch-up, part "please let the restaurant be good enough to match the occasion," and Republic absolutely came through. The whole evening was fantastic. Shane took great care of us and struck that perfect balance of being attentive, personable, and making everything feel easy. He helped the night flow in a way that let us relax, laugh, catch up, and enjoy ourselves without ever feeling rushed. The dinners across the table were a hit, but my Moroccan lamb special was next-level. It was one of those meals where you take a bite and immediately stop mid-conversation because your full attention has been redirected to the plate. The flavors were rich, layered, and so unexpectedly good that I'm still thinking about it. Everyone loved their meal, the atmosphere made it easy to settle in and enjoy the evening, and the prices felt very reasonable, especially for how good the whole experience was. All in, Republic Gastro Pub gave us exactly what you hope for in a night like that: great food, great service, lots of laughs, and a dinner worthy of the reunion

    Overall, great restaurant. I had a hard time picking my drinks and food because everything looked…read morevery good and unique. The drinks in particular were very well balanced and thoughtfully curated. Ambience was cozy and upscale, with some prices to suggest this restaurant may be better suited for special occasions rather than your regular hang. Service was just-ok. No complaints but nothing special either, and the table near the door that we sitting at was probably near a heating vent because it was a little uncomfortably warm. Overall, yes, I would go back to dine here and I would recommend Republic Gastropub.

    Photos
    Republic Gastropub - Small room we were seated in.

    Small room we were seated in.

    Republic Gastropub - Burger and fries

    Burger and fries

    Republic Gastropub - Front indoor dining room

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    Front indoor dining room

    Waypoint Spirits

    Waypoint Spirits

    4.8(35 reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $

    We haven't been here in about 8+ years and it's changed ownership since we last visited. We had a…read moregood experience prior, just hadn't made our way back, and felt it was time for another visit. Our experience was absolutely fantastic! The vibes and ambiance in the space are great, the bat has all the bottles on display of all the options, the menu has a great variety of unique and interesting cocktail interpretations. We got to chatting with Chris and learned so much from him, got to try so many interesting creations from Waypoint, which even led us to buying a couple bottles to take home! We now can't wait to go back again. Definitely going to be a new weekend spot when we want casual hangouts.

    I decided that because it was my first time, I would start by getting a flight to see what I liked…read more I got a flight with vanilla, citrus and espresso vodka, and rum. they were all Incredible flavorful and smooth. My favorite was the vanilla vodka - which was very smooth, and has great flavor. We also got a charcuterie for two- and it was extremely good.. the cheese was fresh and so were the meats and fruits. After the flight, I decided to get a drink. I got the Hurricane which was made with their rum and was exactly what you would expect. My bf got the Boulevardier and really enjoyed it.. he said it had a full and oaky flavor and really enjoyed it. This is definitely a hidden gem.. and I think everyone needs to come here!! The bartender was personable, and definitely did not make us feel uncomfortable. He was funny and was very friendly. There is also not an outdoor are we didn't get a chance to sit in but looked beautiful. The atmosphere itself is warm, welcoming and very clean.

    Photos
    Waypoint Spirits - What they make

    What they make

    Waypoint Spirits
    Waypoint Spirits

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    Talcott Mountain Collective - $8 and pretty good

    Talcott Mountain Collective

    4.0(59 reviews)
    5.7 mi
    $$

    This was the first time at this venue. It hasn't a large outdoor and indoor facility. We were this…read morenight indoors. The atmosphere is very open with high tables and high stools - some of the stools are available with backs for greater comfort. This night it was open mic night and there were a variety of guitarists/singers performing throughout the evening. The facility has their own kitchen and the facility was able to provide a variety of appetizer bites- burgers- personal size pizzas- hotdogs and salads available for cost. There were plenty of choices of beverages alcoholic and nonAlcoholic. All of the food could be ordered via your phone and paid through your phone. We were a party of 12 and we had a great time!!

    I had been wanting to check this place out for a while, so my expectations were definitely up…read morethere. I went during a happy hour (no live music), and overall... it was just okay. The vibe was chill, and the setup included both indoor and outdoor seating. It felt more like a casual hangout spot than a destination, very chill. It was like a Parkville Market or low-key brewery, but without its own beer or signature vibe. The bar only had one bartender, which made for a super long line so I ended up skipping a second drink. I do not even remember what was on their menu but they are supposed to have food trucks. The day we were there the truck was very late so we did not have that experience. We had popcorn and hot dogs. Great, fresh popped popcorn! I did notice a lot of kids running around outside, which as a parent, I appreciated. It's good to know this is a spot I could bring my kid on a sunny day and still enjoy some adult time outdoors. One major con? The bathrooms. They were in the basement, and the whole setup was kind of weird. Think padlocks on doors, maze-like hallways... Would I go back? Yes, maybe, but only on a hot day with live music and good company.

    Photos
    Talcott Mountain Collective - The bar!

    The bar!

    Talcott Mountain Collective - Summer night crowd enjoying live music

    Summer night crowd enjoying live music

    Talcott Mountain Collective

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    Tours of Distinction - fun at greenfield village

    Tours of Distinction

    2.2(13 reviews)
    5.3 mi

    Wonderful Mackinac and Much More I took a trip with Tours of…read moreDistinction that hit all the high spots. Our first stop was at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and we were left to explore this fabulous museum at our own pace, I enjoyed that because there were certain eras of music I liked better than others. The next day our tour guide gave us the lay of the land and we got to spend the whole day at Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum, it was great because again, we had the flexibility to see things at our own pace. After that, we headed to Mackinac Island - for me the highlight of the trip. The boat ride went smoothly so did the horse and carriage rides around the island and lunch at the Grand Hotel was amazing. Again, the best thing about this portion of the trip was that after our horse and carriage guided tour and lunch at the Grand Hotel, we had plenty of time to go shopping for fudge. The surprise of the trip was Frankenmuth known as America's Little Bavaria - what fun we had there in a German-styled restaurant. The cool part of this trip was seeing Niagra Falls from the Canadian side. I liked this trip because it included a wide variety of top attractions and left me with enough free time to explore on my own. Our tour leader was knowledgeable, told us to order white fish on Mac Island, and was very familiar with all the attractions. She even brought the movie, Somewhere in Time to show on one of the long motorcoach rides to catch the bus to Mackinac Island. The food was good, the best was the buffet at the grand hotel, family style in Frankenmuth was also a treat - the chicken was delicious. If you are looking to see a variety of attractions with enough time left over to explore on your own, this trip packs a lot of bang for the buck. Date of experience: June 14, 2024

    5/10/2026 update. The owner removed all his crazy rants from last night but I have screenshots…read more Sure hope that attorney contacts me. Original review 5/9/2026: Finishing up a tour of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos. Our tour was substandard...... the biggest issue was the accommodations. The hotel in the itinerary was the La Fonda. We ended up at El Sendero. La Fonda has a 4.6 rating. El Sendero has a 3.3. They are in no way comparable. The El Sendero is basically a motel. La Fonda is a beautiful historical high end hotel with restaurants, shops, art.... The other issue was meals. Breakfast every day was an inedible joke. And on day 5, lunch was supposed to be included but we were "on our own". Additionally, plans changed with no warning. And some of the outings made no sense....... And our tour guide had never been to the area. We did have local tour guides for a couple of outings but we would have missed major historical landmark (Chimayo). We were within a mile of this pilgrimage site and only went because a lady on the tour asked.... This is a buyer beware situation. And.....when we have expressed our dismay to Elizabeth at Tours of Distinction all we get is defensiveness. 5/9/2026: Response to managers response: Pics attached are the two hotels. Clearly not comparable. Wish I had read these reviews before I booked. And again, the responses from the manager are ridiculous. Our "breakfast" was provided by the Chinese restaurant next to el sendero. The owner of the restaurant was very nice but had no idea how to do a breakfast. Nasty eggs, burnt bacon, chopped up hot dogs, burnt hash browns. And yes, my sister and I suggested fruit might be a nice option. We DID go to Chimayo church....it was added to the itinerary because a lady on the tour knew about it and the bus driver knew it was right next to the restaurant we were going to. They drove us 1.5 hours to go to a weaving shop in Chimayo but the church was not on the itinerary because their planning and research lacks any local knowledge. Every single person on this tour was unhappy. We made the most of it but would never recommend this company. Later on 5/9: And now they've just resorted to childish behavior.... On my sister's review saying "fyi, no one liked either of you". What idiots. So they are not only incompetent and unprofessional, they're stupid too. I have a lovely thank you card and gift from one of the other travelers as she appreciated me doing a Walgreens run for her as she was sick. The other travelers are the only reason this trip was even tolerable. Anyone who wants to look further - check out the "mentions" in Facebook. Make sure you look at Tours of Distinction Connecticut. They've had complaints from local tour drivers that they don't get paid their gratuities. Hopefully lots of people read this. I'm done but any discerning traveler can tell from the company's responses that they shouldn't be in business. To make it easier I shared the FB mentions. Now they are threatening us with a lawyer. Good. We have email addresses for every single person on the trip. Every single thing we have said is true. No one was happy. The company could have acknowledged and addressed the issues and the reviews could come down.

    Photos
    Tours of Distinction - Frakenmuth america's little bavaria

    Frakenmuth america's little bavaria

    Tours of Distinction - Beautiful mackinac... view from our boutique hotel

    Beautiful mackinac... view from our boutique hotel

    Tours of Distinction - The grand hotel... wow

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    The grand hotel... wow

    Back East Brewing Company - breweries - Updated May 2026

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