New Home for Peekskill Brewery Well Received

PEEKSKILL, N.Y. -- The popularity of the Peekskill Brewery, the only brewpub in Westchester County, has increased so much since it opened more than three years ago that it has outgrown its space on Hudson Avenue.

Fortunately for siblings Morgan and Keith Berardi, there's a newly refurbished building just around the corner on South Water Street that more than fits its ambitious expansion plans.

"We have enjoyed success in Peekskill and the current building but we have reached our limitations in the current space," Morgan Berardi told the Peekskill Common Council. 

The Berardi's have an agreement to rent the 14,000-square-foot, four-story South Water Street building from owner Rose Sanca, longtime proprietor of nearby Homestyle Desserts. The larger quarters will include a 15-barrel brew house, more than four times the size of the current three and a half barrel brew house. Keith Berardi said the business expects to produce 2,500 barrels of beer annually, as compared to the approximately 400 barrels now produced. 

"It's great to have a newer business and a long established business partner together in that area," Peekskill Mayor Mary Foster said. "It's really a great opportunity for everyone. It's wonderful that the business has grown so well. This is really exciting."

Morgan Berardi explained the planned layout of the building. The first floor will house the "tap room" and growler station with lounge-like seating. The second floor will feature a bar, 80-seat restaurant and a "grain room." On the third floor will be a cool ship gallery.

"It looks like a big hot tub that beer goes in," Morgan Berardi said.

The fourth floor will feature space for private dining and parties, while the roof deck will be set aside for a beer garden. 

"The cherry on the top," Morgan Berardi quipped. "We're trying to cultivate a beer tourist destination that puts Peekskill's name on T-shirts and hats.” 

The brewery is currently seeking a special permit from the city's planning board and plans to begin renovations as soon as possible.

 

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