The recently opened Milk and Hops is going to be your new favorite post-class hangout spot. Owner Yang Gao, an NYU Steinhardt alum, first opened Astoria Bier & Cheese in Astoria, Queens, a boutique wine, beer and cheese shop, and earlier this month, Milk and Hops. Located on Broadway between 8th and 9th streets (aka really freaking close to Washington Square), it specializes in craft beers and international cheeses with a full menu that includes grilled cheeses and sandwiches.
It’s not quite a bar, but it’s not quite a pretentious specialty grocery either. Sure, there are exotic bitters and super artisan cheeses wrapped in paper, and hipster-ific Mast Brothers Chocolate, but you can find plenty of stuff suitable for your college budget (or, lack thereof). We can see ourselves hanging out at the counter after a long day of classes for a cold glass of Saison, a light, non-hoppy beer for non-beer people, and a small cheese plate ($6 for 3 cheeses! For real!).
Photo by Becky Hughes
In addition to their ten beers on tap, the shop also has a wide range of craft beers in cans and bottles: IPAs, lagers, international stuff, you name it. The staff is super friendly and incredibly knowledgeable. If PBR and 40s of Budweiser are the only beer you’ve ever consumed, the staff will gladly introduce their beers to you.
If spring ever comes (*prayer hands emoji*), we’ll definitely be stopping by Milk and Hops to pick up a baguette and yummy cheese to enjoy in the park. Milk and Hops, we love you already.
Photo by Becky Hughes