It’s been a tough year for New Jersey breweries. But while some have had to close their doors, Ludlam Island Brewery in Cape May County is expanding.
Ludlam’s new taproom will open on Friday, May 17 after a large-scale renovation of a former bowling alley in Woodbine. William Topley, Ludlam’s owner, renovated the old Mouse Trap Lanes at 2051 Dennisville-Petersburg Road in Woodbine about 10 miles west of Sea Isle City in Cape May County.
“We are so excited for everyone to see the new place,” Topley said in a press release. “We poured our hearts and souls into creating this new space for Woodbine and the surrounding communities. We are also very excited to offer a new fun destination for seasonal visitors.”
The new location will have daily hours from noon to 9 p.m. and feature a full kitchen. It will serve local spirts in addition to locally crafted beer, according to a social media post from the brewery on Tuesday. It will also offer non-alcoholic drinks.
Topley’s vision wasn’t initially to scale up as big as the company went, according to Renee Durante, who handles public relations for the brewery. The full bar will also serve local spirits including Stateside Vodka and Siembra Azul Tequila, both distilled in Philadelphia, and Rusted Revolver Gin out of Atlantic City.
Durante said the vision for the space eventually grew into a place that could handle larger crowds from the local community as well as tourists heading to the Jersey Shore.
The new space features a larger brewing area for expanded capacity and several areas to enjoy a drink including an outdoor deck. The space is large enough to handle private parties and is available to be rented out for hourly rates.
“We’re aiming for something completely new to South Jersey. We’ve created a Beer Fest/Food Truck Vibe in a relaxed atmosphere,” Topley said. “With the help of Chef Kevin Cronin, Ludlam developed a BBQ menu featuring pulled pork, brisket, ribs, sandwiches, and other classic smokehouse favorites, as well as new items unique to the brewery.”
The new location offers plenty of space for indoor dining, as well as a large outdoor deck. Ludlam Island will have live music and offer a schedule of weekly events.
Ludlam Island Brewing opened in 2016 on Stoney Court in Ocean View, off Woodbine Ocean View Road a few miles east toward Sea Isle City. A grand opening party is scheduled for Thursday, May 16 at 5 p.m. with the brewery opening for public business the next day, May 17 at noon.
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Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X
