Nestled in the charming seaside town of Mystic, Barley Head Brewery offers visitors a unique drinking experience in its cozy basement location. This local brewery became known for its refreshing and unusual beer selections, including some creative options like seawater-infused brews that capture the essence of Connecticut’s coastal character.
Barley Head Brewery has recently been sold and rebranded as The Misfit Club, which maintains the brewing tradition while bringing a fresh London Underground-inspired concept to the same Water Street location. The new owners, George and Tim, have promised to continue brewing some Barley Head beers alongside their new offerings, preserving elements of the original brewery that locals and tourists have enjoyed for seven years while adding their own creative touch to Mystic’s craft beer scene.
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Barley Head Brewery
Barley Head Brewery in Mystic has transformed into The Misfit Club, a vibrant and inclusive bar that stands out from the typical Connecticut scene. You’ll find this lively spot right in the heart of Mystic, offering a refreshing alternative to conventional nightlife.
The Misfit Club proudly celebrates self-expression and welcomes everyone from fashion designers to Ivy League graduates. You can enjoy award-winning craft beers, microbrews from both local and international sources, and tasty cocktails while a DJ plays music from around the world.
Your visit to The Misfit Club can include fun weekly activities like team trivia, table games, and interactive events. They host special themed nights such as RuPaul Watch Parties, Drag Bingo, and Beer Bust Sundays that make each visit unique and entertaining.
The venue’s winter hours run Wednesday through Sunday from 4pm until last call. You can check their social media for additional hours and special events. This place has quickly become one of the most exciting nightlife destinations between Providence, Boston, and New York.
Rating: 4.6 (150 reviews)
Location: 12 Water St #1A, Mystic, CT 06355
Contact: 860-815-1805
Website: Visit Website
The Heritage of Barley Head Brewery
Barley Head Brewery has established itself as a cherished fixture in Mystic’s craft beer scene. This small but mighty nano brewery combines local charm with brewing innovation.
Founding and History
Barley Head Brewery opened its doors in downtown Mystic, Connecticut, nestled in the historic Factory Square at 12 Water Street. The brewery quickly became a beloved local establishment, offering rotating craft beers that attracted both locals and tourists exploring the charming coastal town.
Though small in size, Barley Head earned a reputation for quality brews and friendly service. In July 2024, the brewery underwent a significant transition when it was sold to George Majewski and Timothy Koehler, who rebranded it as The Misfit Club.
Despite the ownership change, the new proprietors respected the brewery’s legacy. They committed to continuing the Barley Head beer lineup alongside their new offerings, preserving the brewing traditions that customers had come to love.
Core Brewing Philosophy
Barley Head’s brewing approach centered on variety and experimentation. They maintained a rotating selection of house-made craft beers, introducing new brews weekly to keep their offerings fresh and exciting.
As a nano brewery, Barley Head embraced small-batch production that allowed for creativity and quality control. This approach gave you the chance to try unique, limited-edition beers you couldn’t find elsewhere.
The brewery focused on creating an approachable craft beer experience. Whether you were a seasoned beer enthusiast or new to craft brewing, Barley Head offered something to suit your taste preferences in their cozy downtown location.
Their commitment to quality and community established them as more than just a brewery—they became a gathering place where you could experience the authentic flavor of Mystic.
Crafting Unique Brews
Barley Head Brewery stands out in Mystic’s craft beer scene with its innovative approach to brewing and commitment to sustainability. The nano brewery constantly rotates its beer selection, giving visitors something new to discover on each visit.
Signature Brews and Seasonal Offerings
When you visit Barley Head, you’ll find a rotating selection of creative craft beers that change weekly. This nano brewery loves to experiment, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Their end-of-summer peach ale has become a standout favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The brewery, now also known as the Misfit Club after a recent renovation, continues to surprise beer enthusiasts with innovative flavors. Drew Rodgers, the owner and brewer, brings over 15 years of brewing experience to every batch.
You’ll appreciate the cozy taproom in historic downtown Mystic’s Factory Square, where you can sample these unique creations in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sustainable Brewing Practices
Barley Head demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability through its thoughtful brewing practices. The brewery has formed a special partnership with Whittle’s Willow Spring Farm in Mystic, creating a perfect circular economy.
In this arrangement, Barley Head provides spent grain from the brewing process to feed animals at the farm. In return, the farm supplies fresh fruit that Rodgers uses to create seasonal beers like the popular peach ale.
This farm-to-glass approach ensures nothing goes to waste while supporting local agriculture. When you drink at Barley Head, you’re participating in a sustainable cycle that benefits the local community.
You can taste the difference fresh, local ingredients make in these carefully crafted brews during your 1-2 hour visit to this charming Mystic establishment.
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