I’ve always maintained that the best car shows are ones with variety. BMWs are great and all, but I don’t think I’m going to see anything that will make me do a double take if it’s solely the Roundel. So when I heard about Brakes and Briskets, held on a brewery in Central New Jersey (yes, there is a middle part of the state), I figured I’d see what all the fuss was about.
There was a fuss, alright.
Brakes and Briskets was made for fall
It’s a different take on your usual Cars & Coffee event, with a local meat company bringing their smoker to the Readington Brewery. The brewery itself is located on…a farm? Seems an unlikely place to bring a bunch of nice cars, but it works, and if nothing else makes for interesting shots.
Though they hold multiple events here throughout the car show season, the look of the place screams “Pumpkin Spice!”, so it’s a good fall activity. Bring out yo’ flannels.
Crunchy dirt hurts
I had a Subaru WRX on loan for the weekend, so that’s what I brought. Sometimes the car Gods smile upon me, because it was tailor-made for dirt roads. Don’t bother washing your car beforehand. It’s dusty.
The parking lot itself is a car show – tons of weird things out here. Stick to the paths and you’ll be fine, but find a parking spot in the grass at your own risk if you’re slammed.
It’s also authentic – a young couple pointed at the WRX’s wheels and started to debate the merits of Brembo brakes (hint: they stop) – was a fun atmosphere.
Everyone was here
Porsche 911 Turbos. M cars. McLarens. Muscle cars. A Caterham! Always nice to see a mix of stuff.
Tons of people too – many non-car-enthusiasts. That makes it family friendly – there was even a playground for my daughter.
Overall, one of the better events I’ve been to in 2024. As I leave the madness and Fall Cruises behind, it’s nice to know I’ll have a place to go. Check out Brakes and Briskets here. And I’ll see you there next year!
Brakes and Briskets Gallery
