Not a fan! Enjoying fathers day with my best friend (my dog Niko), went for a swim, eats, and then a beer event together to wrap it up on a perfect 80 plus degree day. Drive to THC because they are hosting a charity event ..."Pints & Paws" a dog friendly event. Turns out the event was nearly over with maybe 15 minutes till ending. I get pup a free water, then start thinking about what me and the Mrs will have. I see on the menu that there is a $20 -$25 + range of beer in a pitcher choices. I'm from an era where a $5 pitcher was alot of cash. So I'm thinking I'm gonna have to get the "cheap" one, ha! Like $20 is cheap. However... this only applies to their "crisp lager" or something like that? Ok, so how's about a small taste of that interesting beer before I commit to a whole pitcher? Just to be sure it don't suck? Nope! No tasting policy. Huh???? I was offered to purchase a pint if I wanted to try it. Huh???? No I want to buy a pitcher, and need help figuring out which by tasting. Nope! Strict policy no tasting. And by the way I was the only "potential" customer around. Not like. .oh if I give you a taste...everyone will want one. Just baffling! I refused to buy anything because she was actually serious. She tried to make sense out of it all to me, but it never will. Not how it's done snooty hop company, get your head on straight. Go anywhere usa... be it a bar, pub, brewery, tavern, resteraunt etc and look at the draft beer selection, then ask for a taste so you can make up your mind, they are gonna give you one! Duh, it's how it works knuckle heads! Try telling me that you lose money by doing so? You lie. And if so? Charge me $1 for the taste, this would be semi understandable yet still pushing on greed. But just plain old no taste? Rude. Put yourself in my shoes and you will understand better. Stop being so money hungry and it will come to you. You must give to get. Get over yourselves. Not coming back and plan on sharing this story with others. read more

Don't be fooled by the outside, it's extremely spacious inside! The staff was lovely, the building was quant, and the food venders were really good. I came here with some friends and we sat in the lounge area for a couple hours eating, drinking, and playing board games--good times were had by all! read more

atmosphere is fun... go there for beer and laughs. Food is not so good and over priced

I do love this place but a few things could be better such as the dart boards. These boards are so old and nasty they really needs to be replaced and they're not that pricy. Seriously, just get new ones. Also why isn't someone cleaning the Chalk board off every morning. Takes less than 5 minutes to do. The Chalk boards are so badly covered with a Chalk board pen and the pen is so dry u cannot keep ur score. read more

By far our favorite beer bar. Great drinks and great atmosphere. This place is 10/10 for sure!! Live music sometimes, cool vibe, awesome place to get together with friends or family for a good time. Can even have events here. Highly recommend! read more

Horrible experience, I showed up with 25 family and friends from around the state and a 1,500.00 budget, we planned on having a birthday celebration there, it seemed like a good place to go. The beer selection was good, the food definitely overpriced but the biggest problem was it was 100 degrees inside and everybody was complaining and dripping with sweat. I don't know if the manager was trying to save money. to make a long story short we had to cut or party short because nobody could stand the heat so our get together was ruined and everybody went home to take another shower. My wife and I were totally embarrassed and upset. The only good thing was I came home with a lot of my money I planned on spending there. Maybe the owners could check into what or who the problem was. read more

I like this place and it has great food but after witnessing a woman (who apparently looks like she may work here or be affiliated) was changing her sons diaper on a table where people eat their food near zupps. It almost would make it worse to know that she works here and finds it's appropriate to change a dirty diaper on a table where customers come to enjoy food. Definitely put a bad taste after enjoying this place otherwise read more

Great beer selection! Only thing is the bartender said no tastes, tasters or half pours just pints or flights. I'm commit adverse so stuck with ale smith stout instead of the bourbon aged brown ale... read more

I see a decent amount of signs touting THC as voted best beer bar in CT. They have a wide selection and that's all they have going for them. All of their beer is priced at a premium, and oftentimes they serve it in a plastic cup. Too crowded on weekends, and the bar is so busy you can't really get a good reco from bartenders about the draft list. That's not worth a premium price to me. It's a good place for a large group to gather, however both their parking lots are typically full on weekends, and you have to park down the road. Off-peak nights are a little better. There are many other bars that offer solid beer, service, and environment. read more

" keep your kid with in arms length". Manager asked me to get control of my 2 yr old son who was running around with other children in the establishment. Dancing to the music and just bring kids. When I asked the manager what she meant by under control she told me " keep your kid with in arms length". As I questioned how she expected me to keep a 2yr old in arms length another customer walked past the manager and got in my face and told me this isn't a airplane and then pushed me and told me to go. I then asked the manager who this guy was and what she was going to do about him pushing me. She then asked me to leave which I didn't understand. So being with my wife and kids we left. we will never go back and hope we can let everyone know this is not a kid friendly environment read more

This was my second time here and the drinks are good but the atmosphere wasn't great. It was overcrowded with birthday parties and WAY too many children . There should be an age restriction for children. Babies and young kids should not be running around the bar. I will not be going back here any time soon! read more

The bar is spacious, well decorated, and the staff is nice. Great place for a day time drink. Only complaint is no samples of any of the beers EVER. I asked to try a one I had never heard of and didn't want to waste $8 if I didn't like it and instead was prompted to buy a flight if I wanted to sample beers. Even though it seemed like a consumer friendly and helpful environment, they expect you to predict what a beer would taste like before ordering. Kind of defeats the purpose of going to a 'unique' beer garden, don't you think? read more

Expensive, and for a beer garden format they will not, and again WILL NOT! Let you sample in a tiny cup the beer, like every other beer garden does, instead they tell you you have to buy a 6 sampler tray for $12.00, never in my life have I heard such a thing, read more

This place has good drink selection and very spacious. Good for large groups. However the music is way too loud to hear anything on the weekends. If the music was turned down a bit, the experience would be better. I like the music selection, but it's too loud to even hear the fire alarm go off. read more

Wasn't sure what to expect.... Cool idea, but no regular beers, Bud Light etc.... I won't be back.

I visited THC when it first opened, and thought, perhaps it is too new to be good and managed properly. I waited about a year and gave it another try. This is the ONLY beer establishment that I know of where you CANNOT get a sample of a beer before you buy it! You can buy a Flight just to sample the beers they have, but you cannot get a half-inch taste to see if you like the beer or not! The place is nice, and the seating areas are interesting, you can have a more group area or you can feel a bit more intimate in a separate seating area. I have not been there during the summer, so I don't know what the patio will be like. Even though the patio and the entire place looks interesting, I will probably never visit again because of their "no-sample" philosophy. They have a small selection of food available, in an "indoor truck-like" setup. It is interesting. The food is good, but on the expensive side. I've tried twice, unless I hear rave reviews and word-of-mouth, I will probably not be back here again. read more

Interesting place in Derby....it will be interesting to see if they make a go of it. Recently I stopped in while they were rather busy and things seemed to be well run. The security man (Ron) was not only professional but personable! I was at first puzzled that a Derby establishment would need a man of his caliber. I then witnessed him having to escort a patron out...wow! I was so impressed with my first experience and the fact they featured Zuppardi's Pizza I decided to bring my wife and son the next time. We arrived around 6:30 pm on a Sunday night. It was not crowded like I had hoped and expected. We chose one of the empty long tables in the middle of the room. It was not very long before I noticed a number of loud twenty somethings. It was hard not to notice as one of them picked up the end of one of the tables and slammed it to the ground. Where was Ron?...Ron would take care of this...alas no Ron. It was not very long before the rowdy group decided to swap tables and occupy the other end of the one we were at. I admit I can swear with the best of them but I did not appreciate being subjected to this obviously over served group of punks. I asked that they either refrain from the language they were using or move on. In their over served state they could not understand why I was not delighted with their company. When things got slightly heated (it never should have been allowed to get to that point) and after informing me that I should beware...they were from (Oh No!) Derby, they were gently confronted by management. I spoke with the owner afterwards and he apologized and offered the advice that I not make eye contact with them. They had not yet departed. He claims that he wants a "family atmosphere" and he may be sincere but I think he should decrease his tolerance of drunk patrons and increase his security. I started out by saying that this is an interesting place and it is. I like the concept and the food choices. Two visits and I witnessed one confrontation and was involved in another. Makes you wonder if Derby has another problem on their hands. Next time I want Zuppardi"s Pizza I will make the trip to West Haven. PD. read more

Place was packed. They were serving expensive beer in plastic garbage cups. What kind of beer garden serves good beer in plastic cups? I was very disappointed. read more

Way back in the day when I was 18 I got drunk on beer at a friends keg party and then for 10 years I could not drink beer. Made me sick every time I thought about it. Then in 1991 I went to Ireland with my grandparents and my grandmother ordered a Guinness Stout and I asked her for a taste and that's what it took to get my beer taste back. I am not a big beer drinker but enjoy one once in awhile and it has to be great beer like this place serves. We both had winter ales, mine was a BBC Cabin Fever and it was good! We ordered a 12" sausage and mushroom pizza from the vendor they had inside, Zuppardi's from West Haven and it had to be the thinnest and most crispy crust I have ever had in my life. It was damn delicious! The place was hopping, a mixture of young and old, I fall in between there. It was a good crowd, people go there to drink good beer and have a good time. We WILL be going back soon! read more

This place is my absolute go to! I love my breweries just as much as other Craft beer enthusiasts, but this place is it all! The choices of beer is at its finest. I love how they support local breweries and they always change whats on tap. I have the opportunity to taste TONS of new beers locally. I hate traveling far to certain breweries, but The Hops always have a diverse selection of beers. What sold me on this place is how they let you pick your own flight of beers. You can customize your own beer flight with whatever they have on tap for an awesome price!! This is huge!! I don't wanna spend money on a beer I do not like, but I also can't make my mind up. I get a few flights each time I go. One of the bartenders explained to me they don't do samples because their kegs would kick before they ever sold a glass and that makes total sense. That place has a heavy flow of people so with their flight option, it trumps "samples." I'm not disappointed with not having samples as long as they don't change their flight options. I like how they invite breweries to come down and do a tap takeover. This place just opened and they had Sip of Sunshine AND Fuzzy Baby Ducks on tap ALREADY. Some bars and restaurant who have been in the game longer are JUST getting these beers. It REALLY beats waiting in line for these beers at their respective breweries. They also have a really cool "Mug Club" option. They have awesome food options, board games, two fire places with awesome couches to relax on, tons of TVs to watch sports on and mega size Jenga. If you're tired of the club scene and just want a good time with your friends in an amazing atmosphere, this is DEFINITELY the place! Trust me, this will be your new spot!! read more

The idea is great! No other place like it in the area, however with some minor tweaks this place could demolish the competition. Here's the way I see it! Great for a couple but not to hunker down for an evening of hard core drinking. #1 Because the prices are rediculous! 6-12$ #2 To be the brutally honest beer snob that I am...the list is good, but not amazing...like the owner's busineas model tries ro be. "A high end beer hall!" they have one or two beers that are worth the cost but the rest are brews are the standard craft beers carried by all the other bars around this area. #3 Sooooo, why don't they have one single old man beer? Yes, I am a beer snob but there is nothing wrong with a crisp PBR. If I am going to be there drinking for a while I cant throw back 7% or 8% all night. And to me yuengling has a distinct undesirable flavor and doesn't do it for me. Also, ya know this beer boom is awesome but there are generations of old men who have been enjoying beer for decades and keeping many bars in business... but this place doesn't take that into concideration. If they just brought in one kinda generic beer like PBR they would win over the career drinkers too. #4 they don't do little tasters, not even a thimble full which means I can't taste the 12$ beer before I buy? I asked the rude chick bartender and I was told that they are small kegs so they don't do it because they'd run out. What? I can't believe that girl is dumb enough to buy that from her boss then actually tell customers. I'm talking a mini tasting to wet the whistle and try the beer. What a bunch if horse crap. #5 plenty of room for a party but they refuse to hold tables. Get there when they open to stake your clam. #6 Big large room but you can't stand near the bar area...we got kicked out by the bouncer last night. People could easily get to the bar for a drink, that want the issue #7 There is only one choice of food...Zappardi's Pizza, which is awesome but really over priced 12$ for a one size only..."small" Pizza. And what if you don't like pizza...not sure who that is but what if you're not in the mood...you can't bring in any other food either. Try it out but make sure you bring: cash, cash, and patience for stupid people. read more

Awesome place with fun games and great food! The beer selection is decent - a lot of local choices. Jumbo Jenga is definitely a great time!

Yes the place is cool.. I'll give them a star for that, however I went with friends for my birthday and myself, fiancé, and 3 friends all had our credit cards hacked after going there. We were all there visiting from different towns so it's the only place we'd all been to and used those cards at. I spoke with a manager who didn't really seem to care. So bar goers beware and pay in cash! read more

Met up with some friends for drinks. Nice atmosphere. Ordered a Moscow Mule for round one then moved on to Coors Light (hangs head in shame). Yes... I ordered Coors Light at THC Hops Company. Don't Judge!! IPA's aren't my thing. Loved the atmosphere, fireplaces, long tables and the outside patio. read more

Finally a quality beer garden in CT, that you would be more likely to find in Brooklyn or major city, now in my own back yard. As a craft beer enthusiast, this is a great stop to quench your beer thirst. With 34 beers on tap (priced comparably right for the area) your average "bud light" drinker might be a bit overwhelmed but with such a friendly and knowledgeable staff, they definitely know how to hold your hand and find you a beer that is comparable to what you're accustomed to. In a bar this busy, I couldn't imagine anyone asking to sample all beers on tap. I've always gauged that a good bar has a bartender that will hit the nail on the head with just letting them know what you usually order, and that's exactly what I saw here (They also offer flights which you and your friends can go in on and see which one you would like). This place is also a great spot to find delicious pizza and finger licking good barbecue to wash down with a brand new beer you've just been introduced with. From the fire places, to the large screen tvs and couches, to the lunch room table style seating, along with board and bar games available, it's a great space to watch the game, spend time with friends and even bring the family along. Looking forward to spend a lot of time here. Cheers!!! read more

I've been hear many times. Great atmosphere. Great beer selection. I loved it here until they started opening up the outside doors. All the cigarette smoke from outside fills the inside area. Dont need to inhale all that smoke when i'm trying to enjoy a beer. I wouldn't go back if this is how they're run. read more

Great atmosphere and great food, however I'm not sure if it was because we went on Fathers Day or this was the usual but there seemed to be an awful lot of children, mostly between the ages of two and four, running around unsupervised, jumping on the nice couches by the fireplace, screaming. We watched one mother frantically search for her other twin all the while we knew she was way down at the opposite side of the room, safe, jumping on the couch. That was the only downfall, everything else was great!! read more

I'm writing this review for my friend. It was her first time there tonight and she said that it was GREAT!!!!! So we will be returning there soon with more of are friends. read more

I've been here several times and always thought it was a great venue. Super diverse, accommodating, and had everything one needed to enjoy a day/night out. That is until this evening where the "manager" asked my 2 1/2 year old boy to put away his cheese and crackers. "No outside food" she claimed. Fair disclosure, the party I was with was on their 15/18 pint of beer and 5 pizzas in, not to mention the other small bites (peirogies,nachos,fries,bratwurst) that we're ordered. I was mortified that she had the audacity to stick my family out and take food out of my child's hands. Furthermore, if it was for liability reasons I would almost be able to understand but I watched several outside parties bring in cakes, baked goods, and other celebratory foods for their special occasions. I would question the intentions of this "all-inclusive" venue and my friends and I won't ever return based on their lack of judgement and poor discretion. My son cried and we had to leave, ultimately costing you additional business and a whole lot of negative exposure hopefully. There's nothing this business can say to defend the action of their employee who thought that was the right decision! read more

The place is nice, beer selection is decent but the prices could be better. If you order a pretzel be warned it is large and pricey! Nice place, good to grab a beer or two but the prices are not the best and the staff is just ok. read more

Excellent place! Great selection of beers and tasty food options! Felt like we were away on vacation and hanging out in a lodge. Very comfortable.... Especially by the fire. There are so many things to do. I can't wait to go back again. read more

I love the comfortable "beer garden" atmosphere here. My only complaint is that it gets very crowded and on Saturday nights it gets overrun by kids. No, I don't mean 21 year olds. Literal children, playing and running around. Not usually what you expect when going out for drinks. read more

Great concept but way to expensive!!! I was really looking forward to it! But tap wine!!! Way over priced!! Not even a choice or even know what name wine you are drink except the varietal type. House wine should be $5.00 all day and maybe $4.00 at happy hour . No table service and we have to pay crazy prices???!!! Forget about the beer price!! You can't even sample a beer and the flights are more than a 16oz beer and your only getting 12oz. Very disappointed you have to remember you are I the valley!!! read more

Went for my birthday and got a free boot of beer. Would be nice if you could get a better option for beer but hey it's free at the end of the day. Can't go wrong with Zuppardi's pizza being available as well. Great place to hang out with a group of friends. read more

I'm a CT state chapter lead for a national non-profit organization called Girls Pint Out, whose mission is to build a community of women who love craft beer. In our search for a place to host our second anniversary party, we found THC The Hops Company to be the perfect spot. As a venue it's beautiful, set up in a German beer hall style with additional outdoor spaces complete with games, a gazebo, and more tables. Plenty of room to host a large party. We were very impressed with the large draft list as well, full of a rotating selection of great options. Upon contacting THC to discuss hosting an event we appreciated the quick turn around time in their response, and their willingness to host an in person meeting with us (twice) to discuss all aspects of the event. The event coordinator whom we originally spoke with ended up moving on, and it was a seamless transition to Nina, who currently serves as their event coordinator. Between Nina and their owner Umberto, they ensured that communication was clear, and all aspects of our event were taken care of. When we had to change things around a month before the event, they were quick to jump in and provide suggestions and solutions to our unforeseen roadblock. Recognizing that we are a nonprofit organization, they were extremely generous in their donations and discounts towards our event, and they provided us with a roped off indoor section along with the entire front outdoor area to host our party. Everything was taken care of for us day of by both Nina and the entire THC staff. They were extremely polite and helpful from our arrival up until the last glass was cleared. All in all it was a great experience, and I'd encourage anyone looking to host an event there to reach out to them. We had a blast! read more

This place is awesome!! Great big open set-up. The beer selection is out of this world....so many different choices. The atmosphere is really cool and down to earth. They have huge Jenga games that you can play and behind the bar thry have a bunch of other games you can play. They have two different places serving food. The beef brisket sandwich was so delicious. I can't wait to go back again read more

great service at the bar. kristen was extremely helpful in picking a beer for me! so appreciative of her help! thank you!