New Yorkers can count their blessings that they live in the city that happens to be home to the Heartland Brewery. Located on Union Square, the nationally renowned brewpub has finitely found a loyal following amongst an eclectic mix of New Yorkers in the few years since its opening. New York Magazine has proclaimed the Heartland Brewery best Brewpub in 1996 and 1997.

Owner Jon Bloostein and head brewer Jim Migliorini are the people responsible for the Heartland's success. A former investment banker, Bloostein found New York lacking in brewpubs, so he moved in and filled the opening.

Migliorini, with a background in cooking and winemaking, has developeda reputation as one of best brew masters on the East Coast.

• Cornhusker Lager - Refreshing, crisp, and light, with a mild hoppy bite.
• Harvest Wheat Beer - Served with a wedge of lemon, this effervescent brew is lightly bitter and easy to drink; an excellent example of this beer style.
• Red Rooster - A savory, modestly bitter ale with a smooth mouthfeel. Despite the trendiness of reds, Rooster delivers an appealing and accessible taste.
• Indiana Pale Ale - Along with a hearty belt of alcohol this ale is highly hopped and nicely bitter with flowery undertones; the healthy copper glows.
• Farmer Jon's Oatmeal Stout - Engaging, deep, and profound, are only a few words that begin to describe this perennial favorite. The chocolate, coffee and deeply roasted malt taste and voluptous mouthfeel make for a sensual delight

Along with their regular line-up throughout the year the Heartland offers many seasonal brews, including Smiling Pumpkin Ale, Full Moon Barleywine, and Not Tonight Honey Porter. Intriguing hybrid concoctions, such as the Raspberry Blonde, made with Harvest Wheat and Chambord, and Black Velevt, Oatmeal Stout with hard cider, are available year-round.

The brewery's red brick and polished wood interior is decorated with hand painted murals depicting pastoral scenes, which help impart the flavor of a mid-western brewpub. Located in the rear behind a glass partition the Heartland's brewing vats and equipment are on display.

Accompanying the Heartland's savory beer repertoire is a hearty American-style menu, which includes South Dakota Bison Burgers, Wild Mushroom Ravioli, and Chicken Pot Pie.

Heartland Brewery hosts various events throughout the year, which in the past have included the Home-Brew Harvest, and single malt scotch tastings. Visit heartlandbrewery.com for more information.