If you follow the craft beer world in New York City, the name Chris Cuzme should be very familiar. Chris has worked at many notable breweries around the city including the now closed 508 Gastrobrewery and the re-located Kelso of Brooklyn. He has served as the President of the New York City Homebrewers Guild and hosts his own podcast called Fuhmentaboudit! with his partner Mary Izett.
With all these accolades and experience, the man deserves to have his own brewery. And that finally happened late last year with his business partner David Scharfstein, a former lawyer turned brewery owner. It's called Fifth Hammer Brewing Company.
They join a strong brewing community in Long Island City. Fifth Hammer is the sixth brewery in the neighborhood including Rockaway which is literally down the street. Despite the proximity, the brewers have a great respect and friendship for each other. That's why we focus on this neighborhood on our NYC Brewery Tour and introduce tour attendees to the exciting beer world happening here, with of course a stop at Fifth Hammer.
The What:
The name “Fifth Hammer” comes from a legend about the Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who came across five men hammering at a forge. While the first four hammers were all in tune with one another, the fifth hammer created a distinctly discordant sound. In terms of the brewery, Fifth Hammer represents individuality and not being afraid to go your own way.
It took almost two years for Fith Hammer to finally open to the public due to building codes and mandatory inspections by the city, but they are here now and the large tap room is always full of great beer and exciting events. Best part is they are open every single day which is different for most local breweries who only open their taproom around the weekend.
On Wednesday nights, Chris, who is a professional saxophonist, hosts Cuzday where he brings in another local musician to jam with him. It's great to hear the brewer play while tasting his beer.
The tasting room and bar stands besides the brewhouse where they operate a 15-barrel system. As the story behind the name implies, they don't focus on just one style but march to their own drum and do a little of everything from Berliner Weiss to American Stouts. They've also just released their first canned beer, Jollity Double IPA, which is only available at the brewery while supplies last.
The Why:
We love staying up on and supporting all the local breweries in the city. But knowing Chris' passion and background, we have a good feeling Fifth Hammer will be the next "it" brewery in the city. Brooklyn better watch it's back. Plus the tap room is spacious and full of fun things to do and great beer to drink. Find out for yourself on our NYC Brewery Tour
The Where:
Fifth Hammer Brewing Company
10-28 46th Avenue,
Long Island City, New York 11101
(718) 663-2084