"I can 't believe I haven 't reviewed Mastic yet. This was one of the first new breweries we tried when we first moved to the North Hills. Since this first trip that resulting in me liking the food more than the beer, I am happy to report the beer is now just as good. The space is very open, and there are two separate areas to dine in if there is an event in one of them. When we first came here, they seemed to have regular bands that they sold admission to see. We never saw a band here and, on those days, we ate and drank in the area of the building that is closest to the road. It seems to me this used to be a fire hall, as that is kind of how it presents itself, but the owners did remodel it to make it fit the Caribbean theme. The front of the house is a little less decorated. It is big, there is a nice sized bar with many tables and a couple pool tables. We have always discussed shooting pool but never have. The back of the house, which is my preferred area, is much larger, has two bars, one is very large, and the other a smaller one. This is also where the brewing tanks are housed, and many tables that are outdoor beachy style. There is also a large patio, that we only went out to see once. As I mentioned it is a Caribbean style brewery, that serves their craft beer, along with Island style cocktails if beer is not your thing. The beer has consistently gotten better since our first visit. I usually get a flight but have been known to also order a cocktail. The food is in my opinion, exceptional. They offer a small menu, which I appreciate, that includes a few vegan and vegetarian dishes. When we first came here, I ordered a barbeque tofu dish that was very tasty. It is no longer on their menu, but some of the other dishes we have had such as the chickpeas empanadas, the buffalo cauliflower, and the rice and peas are all very flavorful. We have also had their sweet potato fries and soft pretzels with beer cheese. There was a time when they had brunch on Sundays but have since stopped. Too bad we missed that I am sure it was delicious. They are also known to have specials such was the case this last time we stopped. I ordered this lovely salad that had roasted curried chickpeas, avocado, mixed greens, mango, red onion, and tomato with a creamy goddess dressing. I highly recommend this special. I highly recommend this place! The owners are also very nice and always present. So glad they were able to remain open after their temporary closure. Most definitely worth a visit or ten. Since composing my review I have learned that Mastic will be closing for good after the Labor Day weekend. I am saddened to hear this as we really do love this stop. Please support them while they are still here!"
