Benchtop mingles well with Chelsea, a hip, industrial area known for its restaurants, culture and craft brew scene. The renovated old customs warehouse turned brewery only opened in late 2016, but if the crowds are any indication, people really dig the beer. On the day I visit, I share limited space with a mix of board game-playing hipsters, sleeping babies and families brunching on gourmet comfort food from pop-up Waffletina, who had set up shop in the production area. An exposed wood wall behind the bar and trendy string lights jazz up the modest tasting room’s cinderblock walls lined with rustic tables. In brighter weather, I’m certain the quaint outside seating area opens up the entire space and provides a plum spot to relax, drink and people watch.