Welcome to Buena Connection Brewing Co.: South Jersey’s Newest Craft Beer Haven
By PintPerspective.com
Something special is brewing in the Borough of Buena—and it’s more than just hops and barley. Buena Connection Brewing Co. has officially opened its doors, bringing with it a unique blend of heritage, community spirit, and exceptional craft beer. Housed in a brilliantly reimagined former gym and racquetball club just off Route 40 on Wheat Road, this family-owned brewery is already creating a buzz that stretches far beyond Atlantic County.
A Legacy Brewed from Culture and Passion
The heart behind Buena Connection isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the story. Founded by David, a practicing pathologist with a deep love for brewing, the vision for this project began years ago with the idea of starting a South Jersey hop farm. That idea fermented into something even more ambitious: a full-scale brewery that would become a hub for connection, culture, and creativity.
David and his family, whose roots span Colombian, Irish, French, American, and Italian backgrounds, bring an eclectic spirit to every pint. Their goal? To offer more than just great beer—they aim to create experiences, spark conversations, and build a legacy that will be passed down through generations.
From Flying Fish to Full Circle
Leading the brewing operations is Head Brewer Freddy, a South Jersey native whose career path reads like a cross-country craft beer tour. He cut his teeth at Flying Fish, honed his skills in California, and most recently brewed at Long Live Beerworks in Providence, Rhode Island. Now, with his return to South Jersey and his new role at Buena Connection, Freddy is pouring years of experience and passion into each batch—and it shows.
In fact, we sampled four of their debut brews on a recent visit, and every one was a hit. Balanced, flavorful, and creative.
The Space: Industrial Charm Meets Community Comfort
One of the most striking features of Buena Connection is the space itself. The former gym has been transformed into an airy, welcoming tasting room. A mezzanine lounge above the main taproom offers a more intimate perch—ideal for date nights or casual group hangs—while the bar near the entrance offers its own cozy charm.
And if you’re thinking ahead to party plans, Buena Connection has you covered. There’s a tucked-away private event room down a side hallway that’s perfect for everything from surprise birthday celebrations to corporate meetups. You could also reserve the mezzanine for your next social gathering—because what better backdrop for a toast than a brewery built on connection?
Building a Destination, One Pint at a Time
Six weeks into brewing operations, Buena Connection is already living up to its name. It’s not just a brewery—it’s a destination. It’s a place where the past and present blend into something new, where beer becomes a bridge between cultures, and where every glass tells a story.
So the next time you’re in South Jersey, take a detour off Route 40. Grab a pint. Stay awhile. You just might find that at Buena Connection Brewing Co., beer is just the beginning.
Have a favorite new brewery you want us to check out next? Tag us at @Pint.perspective_ or drop us a line. Cheers!
