I know of no beer stores that far out that might have a good selection. In general, distribution is better near NYC, where there are some specialty distributors. Total Wine in Nassau has a companion beer store that is probably as good as it gets on LI. Distribution was as bad in the 70s, too. The Yaphank Beer store owner drove his truck to Ridgewood, Queens, every few weeks to pick up supplies of Kulmbacher imports and Yuengling brands.
I guess it depends on what styles you are looking for.. Root and Branch used to brew and distribute out of Greenport Harbor, or still do? I'm not really caught up on haze game tbh. https://maps.app.goo.gl/oVqcd3M3QRBHyzAr6 One of my favorite NYC breweries actually has a Suffolk County outpost. https://maps.app.goo.gl/USKUPhkAxGGdCkxd6
Are you taking Sunrise or the LIE out? If you take sunrise, Bellport beer and soda used to have a great selection (haven’t been in about 5 years but cant imagine it has changed much unless it has new owners). As for breweries, Greenport Harbor is your best bet. Great space and very solid beers. There are also at least 5 other breweries in the area that you can take a stab at - I just haven’t been to give a recommendation.
Greenport Harbor has a location out in Peconic and one right in Greenport proper. The one in Peconic is much bigger, has music and food (which is usually great) and both locations sell cans to go. Ubergeek has decent enough IPAs too, I think they’re more in Riverhead, but I’ve never actually been there. R+B does not distribute out of Greenport, that was for a pumpkin beer collab but if you’re driving out from mid-island/west, they’re in Copaigue and they usually have a good assortment of 4-packs. Sand City is right in Lindenhurst about 5 minutes east of there so if you want to load up on cans, those are the 2 places I would do it. I wouldn’t bother with Bellport Beer, that’s up to you. Since the store was sold, very unfortunately, the store is completely different and doesn’t seem to uphold the store’s history. Rocky Point used to have a good distributor, which is really close to the North Fork but it’s been years since I’ve been so I can’t speak for certain. The one good thing is there is a lot of good food out there and most of the restaurants have a decent enough beer selection…unfortunately other than Greenport (and ymmv on that) there isn’t much beer-wise on either Fork. Still, it’s beautiful out there, enjoy your trip.
I'm mainly going to echo @guinness77 In that general area, Riverhead seems to be the main area where breweries open (and close). Greenport is the big player on the North Fork. Their two locations are very different. The one further east in Greenport proper is more of an outpost/relic that stays alive for tourists (although I haven't been there in years and might be misrepresenting it) while the newer/bigger facility in Peconic is their main spot. Don't expect much from beer stores (or the lack there of) on the North Fork proper. Your best bet might be Riverhead Beverage, but once again, I haven't been there in years.
Will you be taking the LIE out or the ferry? If you have time to detour, you could stop at several breweries in western Suffolk or even Hop Scotch (bottle shop). I’ve never been to HS but heard great things.
Really helpful, thanks. I was wondering if Ubergeek was decent...sux their only open on the weekends. I've been to R+B many times and think they are one of the best breweries in the state. Timing-wise, I am planning to hit them up on the way back into the city. TY!!!
Anyone have thoughts on North Fork Brewing Company? Any good? No one mentioned them so I presume they are mid.
If you’re used to drinking R+B then Ubergeek is really nothing out of the ordinary. I was just suggesting it because it’s around there. Your assessment of North Fork is pretty spot on. They are good people but the beer is nothing great. If you have the time to support a local brewery that’s run by good people, then by all means, try them. If you’re looking to have cans while out there I definitely suggest Root and SC even if they’re a little out of your way. @zid hope all is well The distributor in Rocky Point is called Circle M. I haven’t been there in years, used to be a pumpkin picking stop for me before 10,000 breweries opened up, but it seems like they may still have decent beer there.
Greenport is solid for beer, add in the awesome atmosphere at Peconic location and it’s a great place. If you are only looking for beer, it’s solid for sure but not in the same league as R+B and top NYC breweries.
