The First of the Firsts in 3 days

Scratch two more items off The PubScout's Beer Bucket List. Though neither place is brand, spankin' new in terms of being open for business, both are worth visiting.

The first is a place on Rt. 22 in Green Brook called Capital Craft Taphouse and Grille. Manager Dustin Noel, knows his beer. He made his beer bones at the outstanding Stirling Hotel in Long Hill, and according to the now-bearded beer guru, business at CapCraft is going great guns. His right-hand man Dan, who earned his suds stripes at Paragon Tap and Table, is responsible for choosing which beers make the list.

So, with two bona fide beer guys in the mix, it's not surprising in the least that Capital Craft, owned by Tom and Bonnie Graziano, is doing well. Twenty-four rotating craft beers on tap and a slew more in cans and bottles offer something for every and any beer nut. The place is airy and comfortable with great sight lines, and there are even little nooks and crannies where you can have an intimate, private conversation-- about the beers, of course. But whether you have a large group or small, Capital Craft will accommodate you very nicely indeed.

And don't forget the food. A very eclectic menu has something for everyone, and, based upon a recent visit with friends, it's well prepared. It helps, of course, when a rack of ribs goes BOGO on a Monday night, and all tap drafts go for just $4.50 a pint. Our MC group was there planning a summertime trip to Vermont, and the staff was both friendly and accommodating. My favorite Ukrainian server, a beautiful gal named Kristina (above), was especially helpful, even when teaching me Russian.

There was no doubt among my group that Capital Craft will be on our list of beer and food places in the future. Этот пивной бар очень хорош! (Etot pivnoy bar ochen' khorosh!) Da, Kristina?

Cheers!

The PubScout

PS: Don't forget! The PubScout's new book is out for just $1.99. Go here to order yours, and I'll give half the proceeds to NEPHCURE--an organization that helps people cope with kidney disease.