Nestled in the quaint borough of Chatham, Twin Elephant Brewing in New Jersey is more than just a brewery—it’s a story of passion, community, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of craft perfection. Whether you’re an IPA enthusiast, a fan of small-town charm, or someone searching for your next favorite local hangout, this microbrewery delivers in every way imaginable.
The Origin Story of Twin Elephant Brewing
Like all great endeavors, Twin Elephant started with a spark—a spark ignited in a basement where three friends bonded over their love of hops, yeast, and creativity. Cindy DeLeo, Tim Besecker, and Scott McLuskey didn’t just want to make beer—they wanted to create an experience.
Their journey from homebrewers to successful brewery owners was driven by their devotion to flavor and an unquenchable thirst for quality. After years of recipe testing, pop-up events, and feedback loops, the trio launched Twin Elephant Brewing in 2016—and Chatham hasn’t been the same since.
Meet the Founders: The Faces Behind the Brand
Cindy, Tim, and Scott are more than brewers—they’re local legends with a serious knack for creating beers that speak to the soul. Each of them brings a unique skillset to the table. Cindy is the creative mastermind, Tim’s a tech-savvy brewing scientist, and Scott? He’s the community connector and front-of-house spirit.
Together, they form a tight-knit unit with an unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. Their hands-on approach is evident in everything—from the handwritten beer menus to the welcoming smiles behind the taps.
Set against the backdrop of a peaceful suburb with tree-lined streets and a charming downtown, Twin Elephant’s location feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Chatham provides the perfect setting—accessible yet intimate. The brewery’s cozy taproom and outdoor seating make it a go-to destination for locals and day-trippers alike.
The Name: Why Twin Elephant?
The name “Twin Elephant” evokes curiosity—and for good reason. Inspired by a personal story about duality, memory, and strength, the name represents the balance the founders strike between innovation and tradition. It also reflects the notion of the brewery being a place of gathering—where stories are shared, laughter is doubled, and beers are poured generously.
Brewery Atmosphere: Where Rustic Meets Modern
Walk into Twin Elephant and you’re greeted with a blend of rustic warmth and modern industrial charm. Exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and gleaming brewing tanks create a backdrop that feels both stylish and grounded. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a flight and lose track of time, surrounded by friends, live music, and the hum of happy conversation.
Flagship Brews: Beers You Must Try
While their menu rotates often, a few staples have become fan favorites:
- Here There Be Monsters: A hazy double IPA bursting with juicy citrus and tropical vibes.
- Chillcore: A crushable lager with a clean finish and a subtle hoppy backbone.
- Liberty Bell Ringer: A bold and balanced pale ale that’s always in demand.
Each recipe is carefully developed and consistently refined, ensuring that first sip always hits just right.
Twin Elephant’s tap list is always evolving, reflecting seasonal ingredients, experimental batches, and unexpected flavor combinations. Pumpkin porters in fall? Check. Fruited sours in summer? Absolutely. Each visit promises something new and exciting.
They’re not just making beer—they’re conducting flavor experiments. With an in-house yeast lab and a fascination for hop varieties, Twin Elephant pushes the boundaries of what beer can be. Whether it’s biotransformation or unconventional dry-hopping schedules, they brew with brains and boldness.
Local Collaborations and Special Projects
Community is at the core of Twin Elephant’s ethos. That’s why you’ll often find them collaborating with other local breweries, coffee roasters, distilleries, and even artists. These projects often result in limited-edition brews and unforgettable taproom events.
Twin Elephant prioritizes local ingredients—from New Jersey maltsters to Hudson Valley hops. This farm-to-glass approach enhances flavor and supports the local agricultural ecosystem. It’s fresh, flavorful, and forward-thinking.
Events and Food Trucks
From trivia nights and beer yoga to weekend live music and homebrew competitions, Twin Elephant keeps the calendar packed. These aren’t just events—they’re experiences designed to bring the community together, one pint at a time.
While they don’t have an in-house kitchen, the rotating selection of food trucks brings bold flavor to the patio. From wood-fired pizza to gourmet tacos, there’s always something delicious to pair with your brew.
Community Engagement and Charitable Contributions
The brewery regularly hosts fundraisers, donates to local schools, and supports veterans’ initiatives. Drinking here means doing good—and that’s something we can all raise a glass to.
Twin Elephant prides itself on being inclusive. Kids are welcome, dogs are welcome, and everyone’s guaranteed to find a comfy spot. There’s chalk for drawing, water bowls for pups, and high chairs for toddlers.
Reviews and Awards
This brewery doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk. With glowing reviews across Yelp, Untappd, and Google, plus nods from regional beer festivals, Twin Elephant is racking up recognition for both innovation and quality.
Ask anyone in Chatham and they’ll tell you—it’s not just the beer. It’s the warmth, the familiarity, the sense of belonging. Twin Elephant isn’t just a brewery—it’s a heartbeat.In a world overflowing with breweries, Twin Elephant Brewing in New Jersey stands tall—not just for its beer, but for its bravery, heart, and dedication to craft. If you haven’t visited yet, now’s the time. If you have, you already know—it’s a place worth coming back to again and again.
