Summer on the North Fork was made even better with the opening of a new dockside beer garden at The Shoals hotel in Southold. If you haven’t yet pulled up a chair — or a boat! — at Alewife Brewing’s pop-up beer garden, you’re missing out on one of the season’s coolest experiences. But don’t worry because Alewife North Fork plans to continue its residency at The Shoals into the fall.
The husband-and-wife team behind Alewife Brewing, Patrick and Roz Donagher, have brought their craft beer expertise from the heart of Queens to the shores of Southold. The couple, who have lived on the North Fork for about seven years, saw the potential to blend their passion for craft brewing with their love for the area.
“Having the chance to work at The Shoals was an opportunity we couldn’t turn down. Not only would it keep us together at home in Southold with our young kids, but the hotel’s scenic location and vibrant atmosphere on the majestic Peconic Bay has been the perfect place to spend our summer as a family. I truly loved every minute of it!” said Patrick.
Alewife Brewing, founded by Patrick and Roz in 2021, has built a legacy of community. The Donaghers have operated some of NYC’s most beloved craft beer spots, and they’re bringing that same dedication to the North Fork. Their beer garden at The Shoals is more than just a place to grab a pint — it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and the joy of gathering together with friends and family over a shared love of good beer. And let me tell you, it’s a match made in heaven!
Patrick said this about the experience so far, “Running a dockside bar and food truck on the North Fork and a brewery in Queens, with the added logistics of driving between the two, had its mix of excitement and challenges. However, it was definitely worth it. Roz handles the days I was at the brewery, and we worked together when I was back, so she obviously made it easy for me. It also helped that it’s a five-minute ride from our home! The commute also allows me to bring Alewife Brewing’s spent grain from our brewery to Deep Roots Farm multiple times a week. The Alewife Brewing Beer Garden & Food Truck has not only been our place of work, but it was just fun to be there daily. With our views of the marina and Peconic Bay, it never felt like work. It had strong summer vibes.”
The beer garden, which debuted Memorial Day weekend, has been drawing in happy crowds all summer. On weekends, locals and visitors flock to The Shoals — some by car, but many by boat, thanks to the hotel’s unique dockside setup. How cool is it to sail right up to a beer garden, dock your boat, and enjoy a crisp, cold pint?
“I feel like our little beer garden served as a community hub, drawing in locals and visitors alike who are eager for social gatherings, coming by land and by sea! The anticipation from the community and friends suggests that we’ve tapped into a strong demand for outdoor spaces where our guests can enjoy good food and drinks,” said Patrick.
Teaming up with The Shoals’s owner, Jonathan Tibbett, the Donaghers have created an al fresco experience that’s as much about community as it is about craft. The vibe is laid-back, the brews are top-notch, and the views are everything you’d expect from a North Fork summer. Set right on the water, this beer garden is more than just a spot to grab a drink — it’s a destination.
The pop-up features Alewife’s finest brews on tap, with something for every beer lover. Whether you’re into German pilsners, refreshing lagers, or Alewife’s signature IPAs (which, by the way, are some of the best around), you’ll find something that pairs perfectly with your waterfront surroundings. Trust me when I say you’ll want a cold beer — especially if you’ve got a plate of oysters from Little Ram sitting in front of you!
The Shoals food truck is pumping out some truly spectacular dishes. The menu at the beer garden is locally sourced and absolutely delicious. Think fresh, briny oysters, delicious ceviche, and tacos with fresh-caught fish. Patrick and Roz have worked with purveyors like Blue Duck Bakery and Southold Fish Market to curate a menu that celebrates the best of North Fork’s bounty. The real kicker? It’s all crafted with flair by Peruvian chef Erick Turke, who brings a bit of his own heritage to the table.
Whether you’re in the mood for seafood rolls or a juicy burger, you can’t go wrong — especially when paired with one of Alewife’s crisp brews and beautifully crafted cocktails. My faves? I loved pairing the deep flavors of the new “Trippin on Haze” Hazy IPA with the sweet, tangy flavors of the Peruvian Ceviche, which has locally caught striped bass and octopus prepared traditionally with yellow chili sauce and leche de tigre.
“With fall drawing in, we had to ask ourselves if we should keep going. To that, overall, Roz and I had a blast, and it’s truly rewarding to be able to reflect on the friends we’ve made. We believe it could be the start of something beautiful in Southold that combines our beer and culinary passions with the joy of community engagement. Fall is our favorite season, so I think we can definitely go beyond Labor Day. After all, it’ll be Oktoberfest season! Our food menu may see some fall specials, including our Alewife Brewing Festbier, that we brew annually. I’m excited to serve up some of that very soon!” said Patrick.
We all know that the fun doesn’t end after Labor Day, so whether you’re docking your boat after a day on the water or strolling in from town, stop by Alewife Brewing’s beer garden at The Shoals this summer. With its unbeatable location, incredible brews, and friendly vibe, it’s definitely a place to stop on the North Fork. Cheers!
Visit the Alewife North Fork Beer Garden at The Shoals from Thursday to Sunday this September.
