A Crafty Day in Jersey: Exploring Fox House, Tindall Road, and Third State Brewing
Sometimes the best beer adventures are the ones that keep you close to home. That’s exactly what we found on a recent day trip across Central Jersey, where three standout breweries—Fox House Brewing, Tindall Road Brewing, and Third State Brewing—offered not only flavorful pours but strong community roots and inspiring stories. Whether you’re looking for quirky saisons, small-batch gems, or a brewery on the brink of exciting evolution, this trio delivered a well-rounded and memorable Jersey craft beer crawl.
First Stop: Fox House Brewing – Bordentown, NJ
(Closing June 29)
Tucked just off the main strip of Bordentown, Fox House Brewing is the charming product of both family inspiration and brewing passion. When Chris and Abby Campbell’s daughter declared their future home “The Fox House” after spotting tiny fox figurines in online photos, a future brand was unintentionally born. That name would go on to grace one of Jersey’s most endearing microbreweries.
Chris, a longtime home brewer with a love for saisons and experimental ingredients, opened Fox House in March. The tasting room, while new, felt like it had always belonged in the neighborhood—cozy, calm, and full of personality. The beer list reflected Chris’s creative instincts, with offerings like a lavender IPA, a Japanese rice lager, a delicate beer described as “almost a sparkling pinot noir.”
But behind the inviting space and inspired beers were the all-too-common financial and logistical hurdles faced by small breweries in New Jersey. And now, Fox House’s story is coming to a bittersweet early end.
“Fox House will be closing permanently on Sunday, June 29th,” Chris Campbell shared in a heartfelt update. “Opening Fox House took way longer than anticipated… I had to skimp on brewhouse equipment with the intention of buying something more reliable later on. But it collapsed last week.”
Campbell explained that while a new system could be purchased today, delays in installation and batch production would force a lengthy shutdown. “I’m exhausted. I miss my wife and kids. So I’m taking this as an opportunity to bow out and hopefully hand it off to another brewery,” he said.
Though brief, Fox House made a lasting impression. Chris’s note ends with the gratitude and honesty that characterized his approach from the start:
“While I’m disappointed and embarrassed, I would be even more disappointed and embarrassed had I not done something I could be proud of. And that’s what I did, for however fleeting a moment.”
The doors may be closing, but the spirit of Fox House—family-rooted, creatively brewed, and community-loved—will remain a proud chapter in New Jersey beer history.
Next Up: Tindall Road Brewing – Bordentown, NJ
Just a short stroll down Farnsworth Avenue brings you to Tindall Road Brewing Co., a neighborhood gem born from backyard brews and a dream. Founded officially in 2017, Tindall Road got its start in a garage on—you guessed it—Tindall Road in Robbinsville. What began as small 5-gallon batches shared among friends has evolved into a rustic, welcoming brewery with a farmhouse vibe and a heart for community.
Dan Pogorzelski leads the brewing operations with over 20 years of craft under his belt, while his wife Marci keeps the taproom running smoothly. Their lineup of beers reflects the “home-grown” spirit of the Garden State, often incorporating seasonal local ingredients. The taproom itself feels like a second living room, complete with live music, trivia nights, pet adoptions, and yes—even a Shuffle-bowl arcade game.
Tindall Road is more than just a brewery—it’s a community hub. And while the beer alone is worth the visit, the warm atmosphere and personal touches make it a place you’ll want to linger.
Final Destination: Third State Brewing – Burlington, NJ
No Jersey beer tour is complete without a little history—and Third State Brewing delivers it in spades. Originally founded nearly a decade ago by Jay Mahoney, Bill Pozniak, and John O’Brien, Third State has long been a cornerstone of Burlington City’s beer scene. But big things are brewing for the brewery—literally.
Earlier this year, Swedesboro Brewing owner Marvin Bowe announced his acquisition of Third State, adding it to his growing South Jersey craft empire, which already includes Swedesboro Brewing and the Raccoon Taproom in Collingswood. Unlike past transitions, Third State will continue operations uninterrupted, with the founding brewers sticking around to ensure a smooth handoff of recipes, techniques, and tradition.
Marvin’s plans for Third State are ambitious: increased brewing capacity, more taps (think 16 to 24!), and potential upgrades to the tasting room—all while preserving the brewery’s strong ties to the Burlington community. With a focus on variety and quality, Marvin aims to keep fan-favorites alive while expanding the beer list in exciting directions.
With his son Marvin IV now managing day-to-day operations, the brewery is poised for thoughtful growth. And true to the Third State spirit, community will remain front and center.
Final Thoughts
A day trip to Fox House, Tindall Road, and Third State offered three very different, but equally powerful expressions of the New Jersey beer scene. Fox House, though short-lived, was rich with heart and creativity. Tindall Road continues to prove that local love and consistency are a recipe for success. And Third State stands on the edge of exciting transformation with deep respect for its past.
If you’re looking for a taste of Jersey beer that’s full of flavor and soul, you don’t need to look far.
Cheers to breweries that take chances, chase dreams, and serve with pride.
— PintPerspective.com
Follow us on Instagram @pint.perspective_
