Best Plymouth Area Package Stores

Even though the Plymouth, Massachusetts, area is a hotbed for breweries, sometimes it can be just fun heading to your local packie and checking out the beer selection there. As in all facets of life, liquor stores, or as they are called here in New England, package stores, are not created the same. Additionally, each has a different void to fill. We’re going to investigate six Plymouth-area package stores and highlight what each of them does well and why to visit this specific store.

Pioppi’s 

Let’s start with Plymouth’s oldest package store, Pioppi’s, which has been around since 1933. Located on Court Street, it’s become the anchor of the Benny’s (R.I.P.) plaza. Pioppi’s always has an excellent selection of craft beer, but I like to visit here for two main reasons, the first being the selection of 22 oz bombers of different beer from breweries such as The Bruery or Port Brewing. They also have a really nice display of local spirits, not only featuring Dirty Water Distillery from Plymouth, but other regional spirits such as South Hollow Spirits and Boston Harbor Distillery, all gathered nicely together in one section.

Craft Beer Cellar at Plimoth General Store

The Craft Beer Cellar chain has dwindled in size over the past few years as the ability to get one’s hands on superb craft beer has become easier and easier (see these other listings). Plymouth has stayed strong but is now located in the back of the Plimoth General Store. This unique room not only features beer but a mix of non-alcoholic options and wine as well. What I’ve always loved about CBC since my days going to the original location in Belmont is the ability to mix and match. I can walk away with a four-pack (or more) and create a diverse mix of beer that I can buy by the can. 

Luke’s Liquors

When I lived in Rockland, Massachusetts, I frequented Luke’s Liquors, a warehouse-sized package store mecca, where I would spend hours perusing. This was before the craft beer explosion, so I was thrilled to be able to put together a six-pack or two of single bottles that I was itching to try. 

This Luke’s is in the Manomet section of Plymouth and has a great selection of local beers to try. Although they don’t sell by the can, check out their cooler where stray bottles become orphans looking for a home. Although it’s mostly larger names from the macro-breweries, it’s always fun to take a look. On my last visit, I chose a seasonal from Jack’s Abby. 

Bradford’s Package Store

Bradford’s Liquors is certainly one of the best Plymouth area package stores. It’s got an old-school package store vibe, with plenty of wine, booze, and 30 packs to go around. But on a closer glance, check the craft cooler. You’re sure to find something that catches your eye. Be it a new Lawson’s, the occasional Alchemist, something from Bissell Brothers, or a choice from one of the many local breweries, Bradford’s always hits the spot. To boot, the employees are super friendly and the can return is the best deal in town. Pre-count your cans, tell them how many, and up you go to the counter with a handwritten piece of paper. Bradford’s showcases the utmost in customer service with a great selection to boot.

Just Out of Town

Empire Wine and Spirits

Let’s head up north for a minute, well not too far north, just to Kingston and Duxbury. Empire Wine and Spirits is quite big. It’s got an incredibly well-stocked craft beer cooler, making it one of the best Plymouth area package stores. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, head into the back cooler. There are many choices there that are not displayed in the front cooler. They also have monthly specials such as a free pint glass with the beer of the month and tastings from various brands. And best of all, you might even spot actor and local Kingstonite Chris Cooper as I have. 

Brother’s Marketplace

Remember when I said you no longer need a specialty store to have a kick-ass craft beer selection? Case in point, Brother’s Marketplace. Brother’s Marketplace is the upscale cousin (or brother) to the already very nice Roche Brothers chain of grocery stores. In addition to the market, they have a package store with a selection for all tastes and demographics. Although they also sell wine and spirits, their craft beer selection will take a while to peruse, and it’s all displayed so nicely that you’ll just want to take home all of it.

Well there you have it, what I believe are the best Plymouth area package stores. From a store that’s been in business since 1933, to an upscale grocery store, to one of the last remaining Craft Beer Cellar franchises, these stores come in different shapes and sizes and each has their own specialties.