Nestled in the heart of Bloomfield, New Jersey, Varitage Brew Works has emerged as more than a craft brewery; it is a gathering place where soccer fans converge to celebrate the world’s most watched tournament.
The story begins with Mark Costa, a high school soccer coach who grew up watching the sport with his father in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark. Inspired by his family’s Portuguese and Italian roots and the vibrant energy of New Jersey’s diverse communities, Costa opened the brewery as a tribute to heritage and the beautiful game.
What began as a modest setup of friends and family watching matches on a single television has organically evolved into a full‑scale fan zone. Multiple screens, a projector, and a layout designed for communal viewing now accommodate larger crowds, especially during World Cup matches being staged at the nearby MetLife Stadium, now known as the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Costa’s commitment to authenticity extends to the brewery’s cultural blend. The décor and menu reflect Portuguese, Italian, and Jersey influences, creating an environment that feels both local and internationally resonant.
A Community Built on Passion
Adhering to FIFA’s strict regulations for commercial watch parties, Varitage Brew Works has crafted events under the banner of a “Summer of Soccer,” deliberately avoiding the World Cup trademark while still delivering the excitement of the tournament.
The brewery’s collaboration with artist Rich Tu, who designed the official New York‑New Jersey World Cup poster, further cements its role as a cultural hub, merging sport, art, and community spirit.
Isadora Grevan de Carvalho, a professor at Rutgers‑Newark, has highlighted the event’s significance, noting how the World Cup amplifies the county’s already rich Brazilian and Portuguese communities and fosters a shared sense of belonging.
For local residents like Melanie Bruchet, the brewery is more than a venue; it is a personal sanctuary where the care and thoughtfulness of the staff make every match feel like a home celebration.
Beyond the screens, Costa sees his role as a responsibility to provide a space where both locals and visitors can come together, reinforcing the idea that soccer can bridge neighborhoods and generations.