Tapster Brings New York’s First BYO-Food, Self-Pour Tasting Room to Long Island with New Franchise Expansion

Long Island Mother-Daughter Team to Open Tapster’s First New York Franchise; Poised to Redefine Social Drinking with a Laid-Back, Community-Focused Experience

LONG ISLAND, N.Y. – Tapster—the trailblazing self-pour tasting room franchise—has signed a new franchise agreement for expansion into New York. Long Island mother-daughter team, Allison and Megan Dee, will open the state’s first Tapster on Long Island, a region known for its walkable main street towns, lively nightlife, and strong community atmosphere.

The Dees were drawn to Tapster for its welcoming atmosphere, unique self-pour experience, and the opportunity to create a space that fits seamlessly into Long Island’s vibrant social scene. Allison, a corporate accountant with a background in both art and psychology, has long sought a creative outlet that brings people together. Her daughter, Megan, who is currently completing her college degree while working in the restaurant and bar industry, will play a key role in leading operations at the new Tapster. With a shared vision for fostering community and a firsthand understanding of the hospitality world, the mother-daughter duo is eager to introduce Tapster’s innovative, guest-driven concept to Long Island.

“Long Island is filled with great gathering places, but there’s nothing quite like Tapster,” said Allison. “The ability to create an environment that’s warm and inviting, with a fresh and distinctive twist, and designed around real social interaction is something that truly resonated with me. Tapster blends creativity, hospitality, and great beverages in a way that makes every visit unique.”

The New York announcement comes as Tapster continues to grow across the United States via franchising with local entrepreneurs. In addition to the upcoming Long Island opening, Tapster is preparing for new franchise locations in Lexington, KY (Spring, 2025) and Denver, CO (later this year).

“Long Island is the perfect home for Tapster’s first New York tasting room, with its vibrant communities and deep appreciation for craft beverages,” said Roman Maliszewski, founder of Tapster. “Our franchise model is built for passionate entrepreneurs, like Allison and Megan, who want to create welcoming, community-driven spaces, and we’re confident their location will bring that vision to life.”

Tapster gives the Long Island community the freedom to drink what they want, when they want. With over 40 options of beer, wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, Tapster offers a refuge from the bustling city streets with its comfortable, communal space that encourages sampling the various, frequently changing beverages on tap. Plus, Tapster’s BYO-Food policy offers guests the freedom to pair their drinks with whatever they’re craving, whether it’s takeout tacos, pizza, or a homemade spread. This hassle-free approach allows the Tapster team to focus on creating a relaxed and welcoming environment, while eliminating the need for a full kitchen.

Expected to open by year’s end, Tapster’s Long Island tasting room will reflect the mother-daughter team’s vision of a modern, community-focused gathering place that integrates seamlessly with the vibrant, iconic nature of Long Island.                                              

According to the IFA’s Franchising Economic Outlook report, franchising is projected to grow faster than the U.S. economy, which is expected to increase by just 1.9% in 2025. In contrast, the franchising sector is expected to grow by 3.5% overall. Within this, personal services and retail food, products, and services are expected to be the fastest-growing industries in 2025, with growth rates of 4.3% and 3.5%, respectively.

The growing consumer demand coupled with Tapster’s franchise opportunity—which features streamlined operations, low overhead, and a small team—presents a tremendous opportunity for both Tapster and its franchise partners as the brand continues to expand its reach and impact on local communities.

New York marks a significant milestone in Tapster’s nationwide expansion, driven by Community Franchise Group and the team’s strategic focus on high-potential markets. Long Island will serve as the launchpad for Tapster’s presence in the state, setting the stage for additional locations as the brand taps into New York’s thriving beverage scene.

“Tapster offers a franchise model that blends innovation with simplicity, making it an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to bring something fresh to their community,” said Mike Weinberger, president of franchising at Tapster and managing partner of Community Franchise Group. “New York’s dynamic market is a natural fit for our expansion, and Long Island is just the beginning.”

Tapster seeks fun and funky locations throughout Long Island for its next community hubs. 

About Tapster: 

Tapster is a pioneering force, revolutionizing the social drinking experience. The innovative, self-pour bar concept offers 40-plus taps with a wide variety of beer, craft cocktails, wine, cider, hard seltzer, kombucha, cold brew coffee, and craft sodas. Guests sample a wide variety, at their own pace, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. Founded on core values surrounding environment, empowerment, and education, Tapster opened its first tasting room in 2017 and has five locations across the United States. With a proven business model focused on simplicity, profitability, and community engagement, Tapster offers owner-operator franchisees the opportunity to be part of a dynamic brand that is poised to reshape the way people experience and enjoy their favorite brews and cocktails.