Manchester
Crispy smash burgers and craft beer are a match made in flavor heaven at Elicit Brewing. Come for the food, stay for the vibe, and discover your perfect pairing with every bite and sip.
There’s something about a perfectly crispy-edged smash burger and an ice-cold craft beer that just clicks. It’s the kind of duo that doesn’t try too hard, simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to make your taste buds happy.
That combo is exactly what Elicit Brewing does best. At our taprooms, food and beer aren’t just menu items; they’re part of the whole hangout experience.
Here’s why smash burgers and craft beer are a match made in flavor heaven, how we make them our own, and which brews to grab the next time you visit.
There’s a reason why people can’t get enough of a classic beer-and-burger night. It's comfort food meets craftsmanship, the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, cold, and refreshing.
A good smash burger starts with a sizzling griddle and a little patience. At Elicit, we press the patties thin and hot to get that golden-brown crust that crackles with flavor. It’s the crispy edges, the juicy middle, and that melt-in-your-mouth bite that make you reach for a cold sip right after. The caramelized flavor of the meat pairs beautifully with carbonation and hops; it’s a natural balance of rich and refreshing.
Craft beer isn’t just a drink beside your burger; it’s what ties the whole thing together. Every sip resets your palate, cuts through the savory fat, and makes the next bite even better. Whether it’s a hoppy IPA, a malty stout, or something crisp and light, beer adds contrast and depth to each flavor. That’s the beauty of pairing: it’s endless possibilities in one sitting.
Explore our taproom pairings and check out how to pair burgers with beers.
At Elicit Brewing, we take our burgers very seriously. We don’t play by the rules, go by shortcuts, nor gimmicks. We just go for locally sourced beef, fresh toppings, and buns that can handle the heat. Our smash burgers are cooked to order, each one seared to crispy perfection and served hot off the grill.
You’ll find all the favorites here: the classic cheeseburger that never disappoints, the bacon jam version for those who like sweet with savory, and the spicy one that brings a little kick to the table. What’s even better is that no matter which location you visit, Manchester, Fairfield, or our newest Danbury spot, you’ll get the same bold, craveable flavor every time. Because for us, consistency matters as much as creativity.
Just like our beer, our burgers are a craft. They’re made with the same pride, precision, and passion that go into every batch we brew. Check out our food menu to find your favorite.
Finding the right beer for your burger is half the fun. Here’s how we like to pair them, though honestly, there are no wrong answers when good food and good beer are involved.
If you like bold flavors, this one’s your move. The hops in an IPA slice through the burger’s juicy fat, while citrusy notes brighten every bite. It’s sharp, fresh, and a little adventurous, just like our crowd at Elicit.
This combo is pure comfort. The roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee notes in a stout play perfectly with smoky bacon and caramelized onions. It’s smooth, rich, and feels like the kind of pairing you want on a cool Connecticut night.
For the heat lovers, pilsners are your best friend. They’re crisp, clean, and just the right amount of bubbly to cool down every bite. The lighter body lets the spice shine through without overpowering it.
When in doubt, grab a lager. It’s balanced, easy-drinking, and goes with practically anything on our menu. Whether you’re new to craft beer or just looking for something smooth and social, a lager keeps things simple and satisfying.
Here’s the thing: you don’t just eat and drink at Elicit Brewing. You hang out and make everlasting memories. Our taprooms are built for it: open spaces, lively music, and the kind of atmosphere that pulls you in and keeps you there. Whether it’s trivia night, a live DJ, or a weekend market pop-up, there’s always something happening.
It’s the place to grab lunch with friends, unwind after work, or turn a regular evening into something worth remembering. The beer’s cold, the food’s hot, and the crowd? Always a good company. It’s a sign for you to plan your visit with Elicit.
You don’t need to be a beer expert to get it right; the fun is in experimenting. Start with a flight and try different beers with your burger. Maybe switch halfway through your meal to see how a new brew changes the flavor. Ask our team for recommendations; they’ve tasted it all and love helping guests find new favorites.
And remember, pairing is personal. If it tastes good to you, it’s the right choice. Bring your friends, order a few burgers, grab a flight, and make your own pairing story.
If you’ve been to Elicit before, you know we’re not stopping at burgers. Our food menu is packed with shareables, pizzas, tacos, and late-night snacks that are just as good with a pint in hand. Try a crisp pale ale with a pepperoni pizza, or a smooth wheat beer with tacos; it’s all about exploring new combos and keeping things fun.
Yes, our kitchen is open at every Elicit location.
Absolutely, just ask our team for the best pairings.
Yes, we’ve got flexible seating for any event or celebration.
The truth is, you don’t need a special occasion to treat yourself to a great burger and a better beer. You just need a place that feels easy to walk into and hard to leave. That’s why we do things the way we do at Elicit. Good food, cold beer, a lively crowd, and zero pressure. Just come as you are, grab what looks good, and settle into the moment.
At Elicit Brewing, that’s exactly what we do best. Bring your appetite, your crew, and your curiosity; we’ll handle the flavor.
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