The Best NYC Surprise Party: Brooklyn Brewery & That Burger

(With the birthday boy and his best friends)

What’s better than an unexpected surprise party that goes off without a hitch? This weekend I hosted a surprise for my guy at The Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg for his 26^th birthday. 

For those looking for an out-of-the-ordinary venue from the typical downtown dive bars and Queens beer gardens, check out the Brooklyn Brewery! Arrive early to snag a table or two for your crew (reservations are not accepted and this place gets crowded fast), enjoy 5 beer tokens (read: 5 full pours) for only $20 and take a free tour of the brewery.

There’s nothing better to pair with good beer than good food. Luckily, the Brooklyn Brewery allows you to bring your own grub or have it delivered, so you can enjoy your favorite meals as you imbibe. Our party dined on some seriously good burgers, courtesy of Dan Petersen, owner of That Burger, one of the best spots for cheap eats in the East Village, located above Idle Hands Bar. 

(With the birthday boy and Dan via McKenzie)

Dan graciously delivered us 50 mini burgers and a tray of tots, accompanied with his popular dipping sauces, like Crabby Mayo and spices, like his newest Bacon Spice. Beers and burgers are a love story made in drunken heaven.

While we all got down on mini burgers and tots, the birthday boy was treated to two of his own full-sized The Kick burgers (sautéed onions and jalapeños in Frank’s Red Hot with melted cheddar cheese) to properly coat his stomach, preventing his Sunday morning hangover from being as rough as it was on his 21^st, oh so many years ago.

Visit the Brooklyn Brewery anytime of the year to enjoy their classics or seasonal brews on tap or take their bottles to go. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a chill place to relax with friends over suds, this brewery is a can’t miss for a good time in Brooklyn.

Happy Birthday, James! xo