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Make Your Own Six-Pack at New Hunters Point Beer Shop

By Jeanmarie Evelly | November 14, 2014 4:43pm | Updated on November 17, 2014 8:42am
 Beer Closet opened three weeks ago at 5-37 51st Ave. in Long Island City.
Beer Closet in Long Island City
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HUNTERS POINT — A new specialty beer store in Long Island City is letting customers mix-and-match their own six-packs.

Beer Closet, which opened about three weeks ago at 5-37 51st Ave., hawks more than 200 different varieties of suds, each sold individually so patrons can take home a variety instead of having to buy several beers of the same kind.

"You pick and choose any beer you like, as many as you like, whatever your heart desires for that day," said owner Mario Cruz, 32. "I'm getting a lot of good feedback from customers."

Cruz learned the ropes of the retail business by working at nearby Vernon Wine and Liquor, which is owned by his long-time friend.

During his work there, he noticed customers kept coming into the liquor store looking for beer, so he decided to open a shop dedicated to beer alone.

"They would go somewhere else, and that just lit my light bulb up," he said.

The Beer Closet specializes in craft beers, with labels from around the world in both cans and bottles. Prices vary depending on the brew. Bestsellers currently include Duvel and La Chouffe, Cruz said.

The shop will have several draft beers, and plans to start selling custom beer growlers as well. Customers pay $10 for the growler, and the cost of beer runs $15 or $25 for 64 ounces.

Those who buy a growler will get a second fill for free, but customers can also bring their own growlers from home.

Beers and ciders in gluten free and organic varieties, and non-alcoholic beer and sangria are also available.

Beer Closet opens everyday at noon and closes at 10 p.m. on Mondays-Thursdays, at 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 8 p.m. on Sundays.