Benchtop Brewing Company

Benchtop Brewing Company is a craft brewery in Norfolk, Virginia, located in the Chelsea neighborhood. The brewery produces a diverse range of beers using scientific innovation and local ingredients, offering a creative and bold beer experience. It serves customers through its Norfolk tasting room, which features twelve rotating taps and a menu of seasonal and experimental brews. The brewery is known for its innovative takes on classic styles, including a foeder-conditioned lager program and a Gold Medal-winning Oyster Gose. It has built a strong reputation in the local community and is recognized for its commitment to quality and creativity in brewing.

Founded in 2015 by owners Eric and Talia, Benchtop Brewing was inspired by Eric’s background as a food scientist and years of experience in research and development. The name reflects the initial stage of experimentation in a lab, symbolizing the brewery’s roots in scientific precision. The company emphasizes a blend of analytical rigor and artistic freedom, with a focus on local ingredients and collaborative brewing. The Norfolk tasting room serves as a community hub, fostering engagement through events, a loyalty program, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The brewery is situated on Boissevain Avenue, about a quarter mile from the Elizabeth River Trail and the Little Theatre of Norfolk, with the Midtown Tunnel Expressway and Brambleton Avenue nearby. Its location places it within walking distance of recreational and cultural landmarks in the Chelsea neighborhood.

Benchtop Brewing is known for its inventive approach to craft beer, combining technical expertise with bold flavor profiles. Its recognition at the Great American Beer Festival and its consistent focus on quality and innovation reflect its standing as a respected name in Norfolk’s craft beer scene. The brewery continues to be a destination for those seeking unique, thoughtfully crafted beverages in a community-centered environment.