where music + beer come together

Our story is pretty simple.

Following the success of Williamsburg sister bars —Northern Bell and Jimbo Slims—owners Jordan Bender and Mike O’Brien were presented with an opportunity to build a space across the street from one of New York City’s premiere music venues. So they followed their passions, branched out and started brewing. They opened their doors in September 2019, starting out as a local Williamsburg taproom and evolving to distribute beer throughout all of New York State. In September of 2022, they opened their second 18th Ward Brewing location in New Rochelle, NY and are proudly sharing their love of local craft beer with Westchester County.

The name 18th Ward Brewing comes from the first brewery’s location, The 18th Ward of Brooklyn. Brooklyn was incorporated as a city in 1837 and divided into nine wards. By 1889 there were 26 wards, which were further used to construct Congressional and Assembly districts. The taproom is located in what was once the 18th ward. Thus, 18th Ward Brewing was born. 

18th Ward taprooms are bustling neighborhood hubs where beer drinkers can relax and indulge in their favorite locally brewed beers. The perfect place to come in on a weekend afternoon to sample new beers, grab a 4-pack to go, or drink before or after any Brooklyn Steel show.