Overview

Created by three friends - Sean Costigan, Gavin McKenzie, Matt Blofield - Method Brewing opened it's doors in 2022 about a decade after the building was a home-brew shop (yes, co-founder worked there).

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Sean previously worked at the homebrew shop (on the very site Method now occupies) and served as head brewer at Murray’s Craft Brewing Co. before co‑founding Method.

 

Gavin was a home‑brewing enthusiast who formalised his skills with a postgraduate Diploma in Brew Science.

 

Matt was originally a carpenter, then worked at a Hunter Valley brewery (after leaving the building trade), before joining the team.

 

Their goal: to make “method-driven, quality beers” for Newcastle locals, in a welcoming, community-oriented taproom that feels like a second home.

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What They Offer — Beer & Atmosphere

The taproom features a rotating set of beers: while it changes regularly, a few staples include:

 

Method Pale Ale — a sessionable pale ale good for everyday drinking.

Method New World IPA  - a hazy / juicy IPA with Australian and U.S. hops.

Method Hazy Pale - for those who like a fruity, hoppy but easy-drinking ale.

 

Beyond core beers, they rotate other brews regularly — meaning there’s often something new to try.

 

The space has an open-brewery, industrial-shed vibe with high ceilings, exposed interiors, and a mix of high/low seating + comfy couches — nice for groups or casual catchups.

 

As far as food there’s rotating food-trucks each Friday, Saturday and Sunday (so you can grab eats while enjoying your beer).

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What Makes Method Brewing Stand Out

It’s a genuine local, independent micro-brewery — built by the founders themselves (literally from concrete up), not some corporate venture.

 

The rotating tap list + core staples gives both consistency and variety: regulars know roughly what to expect, but there’s always room for surprises.

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The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious — “pub-meets-brewery” style, suitable for casual drinkers, beer lovers, groups, or anyone after a laid-back drink.