The story behind Five Dimes Brewery in Westwood is a tale of friendship and great beer. Prior to opening, the building was occupied for 60 years by the L.N. Grand 5 & 10 Cent Store. But after three generations, the owners were looking to sell the space to someone who appreciated its rich history.
That’s where Five Dimes Brewery owner Chris Alepa comes into the picture. His friends Steve and Pat Naginsky owned the shop, and the three regularly bonded over a shared love of craft beer. By this point, Chris had been home brewing for years while also touring breweries around the country and Europe. During his travels, he saw how breweries brought both locals and out of towners together. Steve saw an opportunity to let his friend take over the space, and that’s how Five Dimes Brewery started.
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1 Year Anniversary Celebration
Now, Five Dimes Brewery is celebrating their one-year anniversary on Saturday, April 15. To make the most of their special day, they are collaborating with another brewery, Neverdead Beer. They encourage groups of all ages to come out and enjoy family activities, cornhole, and live music all day. “We’re fortunate to be in a strong community,” says Matt Hladnick, social media and technology director for Five Dimes Brewery. “People in Westwood and the surrounding area want to support local and drink local.”
The space inside Five Dimes Brewery is rustic Americana, with wooden tables and chairs, a stone fireplace, and couches. The 8,500-square foot space has three floors, including rooftop seating. The brewery is BYOF (Bring Your Own Food), so patrons can bring in food or have it delivered on-site.
What’s on Tap
Five Dimes brews a variety of beers that cater to just about any palate. Popular picks include the Pascack Pilsner, A Sunny Day IPA (fruit flavored), Hazy Place, and More Good News. Other drafts include Easy Owl Session IPA, Milkshake IPA, One Louder, and Kinderkamack Kolsch Style Ale. They also offer flights so patrons can sample a few to find their favorite. Meanwhile, they offer hard seltzers made with gluten-free syrups in flavors like black cherry, strawberry mango, and passion fruit. Even Non-drinkers and kids can enjoy their draft birch beer.
Five Dimes Brewery also lets patrons bring their favorite drinks home in growlers or crowlers (32 ounces, or two beers). They also sell cans for takeout, and some local restaurants allow beer from the brewery into their dining rooms.
Their Bison Room – a private tap room with a fireplace and rooftop access – is available to rent for private parties. The option to rent the entire venue is also available. Future plans include expanding their beer distribution throughout all of New Jersey.
Visit Five Dimes Brewery at 247 Westwood Ave in Westwood.
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All Photos: © Five Dimes Brewery
