A Brewing Phenomenon
When Mark Costa opened Varitage Brew Works in Bloomfield in 2023, he imagined a modest taproom serving local craft enthusiasts. Within months, the space attracted fan clubs from across the soccer spectrum, turning the brewery into an unofficial hub for supporters of every team.
Costa’s own journey — from brewing in his garage a decade earlier to launching the taproom after a stint at Jersey Girl Brewing — gave the venue a personal touch that resonated with patrons. The organic growth was swift; supporters of clubs ranging from Arsenal to Gotham FC found a common home among the wooden tables and rotating taps.
World Cup Marathon
This summer, Varitage will broadcast every World Cup match except two, scheduling 39 consecutive days of soccer-centric programming. The brewery will transform its outdoor patio into a massive viewing zone, complete with LED screens, special appearances by U.S. legends such as Tony Meola and John Harkes, and globally inspired beer releases.
The event lineup includes fan fests for high‑profile fixtures like the USA versus Australia clash and the tournament semifinals. Attendees can expect live music, interactive games, and the occasional pop‑in of international stars who are drawn to the brewery’s growing reputation as a soccer pilgrimage site.
The buzz extends beyond New Jersey. Supporter groups from distant cities are planning road trips to fill the brewery during the tournament, while local clubs like the Cloud 9 Supporters Group and the Varitage Gunners — an Arsenal fan collective — have cemented the venue’s status as a community anchor.
Beyond the Brew
Varitage’s influence is not limited to the taproom. The brewery has secured a partnership with Sports Illustrated Stadium, supplying a locally brewed option at every concession stand during Gotham FC and New York Red Bulls matches. This collaboration has amplified the brand’s visibility across the Northeast’s sports landscape.
The commercial growth mirrors the cultural surge. Production has risen from 200 barrels annually to over 900, enabling wider distribution in New York City, Philadelphia, and plans for a future launch in Washington, D.C. The brewery’s expansion reflects both the rising popularity of soccer in the United States and the community’s appetite for a shared experience.
As the World Cup unfolds, Varitage Brew Works stands as a testament to how a small business can become a cultural nexus, uniting fans across continents while celebrating the sport that brings them together.