By Aaliyah Rakeem

Somerset Brewing Company is located just south of Adelphi University in Garden City bordering Hempstead. It’s by far one of the best breweries in Nassau County with quality brews, a welcoming atmosphere and deep ties to the community.

Owner Manny Fajardo said he built the place from the ground up in 2022. Even the bar was handmade and polished using locally sourced lumber. The rustic vibes of the bar offer a relaxing atmosphere and Fajardo’s family tend the bar. The other bartenders are all phenomenal as well; allowing newcomers to try beers while explaining them thoroughly and with a smile. As for the beers they serve, they are all tied to Fajardo’s life, family and career as a surgeon. Some have medical notions like “Surgical Precision” and “Doktoberfest.” Fajardo’s mother and bartender Mary said that others are named after the dogs the owner had as a child, like the “Kaia.” The beers themselves are usually traditional lagers, stouts, pilsners or IPAs, described in succinct detail on the brewery’s menu. All palates are sure to find something to enjoy. 

For those who aren’t beer drinkers, Somerset Brewery carries locally made whiskeys and vodkas from Twisted Cow Distillery in Northport. They have a multitude of drinks on tap, with a better price point than any other brewery north or south of it. Beers are served in half pours of eight ounces for $4 or full pints for $8. Spirits and cocktails are around $14. 

There are a variety of flavor profiles in each of the beers. The traditional styles are milder, yet each with its own high point. The IPAs all have their own fruity kick to them. The stouts are strongest in flavor, with the “Matriarch” having been aged in bourbon barrels over months. Their beers are rotated frequently on the menu with some sold out at times. 

You can view the entire brewing operation from their extensive outdoor space The brewery hosts a multitude of free events like live music and dog boutiques along with different food trucks on premises each day. Just being able to watch these food vendors create unique, delicious meals is an event in itself. The venue also serves their own common bar fare like pizzas and pretzels.

Children and dogs are allowed on premises. Activities like soccer and corn hole, as well as outdoor televisions are provided. Extensive outdoor seating capability makes it a wonderful spot for parties or for gathering with friends and family.

Despite also working as a surgeon, Fajardo said he is in the midst of developing a nearby building that would have more of a restaurant vibe and be open seven days a week, unlike the brewery which is only open Thursday to Sunday.

Somerset Brewing Company is located at 94C Cherry Valley Ave 
West Hempstead, NY, 11552.