The ‘burgh is a drinking town. Maybe you categorize the Steel City more as a sports town, but its first love is drinking. The Rooney’s have owned the majority of the Steelers since the 30’s. And how did they make their fortune? Oh yeah that’s right from a parlay at Saratoga*. Ya think he was sober? Like I said drinking first, sports second.
Anyway, I’m here to talk about beer, but not the ice cold Iron City your grandpa imbibed after a long day at the mill. No. Craft beer. That’s right. Unless you live under a rock, or worse the suburbs, you may have noticed some intense gentrification happening in the 412. Neighborhoods your mother warned you about now sport luxury condos and over priced lattes. Turns out these Northeastern (Midwestern?) bearded hipsters can mix malt, yeast and hops with the best of ‘em.
Now Yinzers can enjoy fine beers brewed without corn adjuncts. Long gone are the days of filing into Southside bars more packed than Jason Kendall’s cheek. Whether you’re honoring Steeler Sunday, wallowing on one of the sad 162 days of the year, or pretending to be Irish in March you can find high quality beer in any neighborhood.
So here’s six dope breweries in town – one for each ring.
Dancing Gnome
Unless you worked for HJ Heinz in the 1870s you’ve likely never been to Sharpsburg. Here’s a reason: Dancing Gnome brews the finest liquids in the town, state, dare I say nation? DG is renowned for their IPAs and American ales. My favorite is their flagship the Lustra, described as an American ale though with its juicy hops I’d say it’s more aligned with your favorite New England IPA. With their range you can’t go wrong with their seasonals, stouts, and even English ales.
Hitchhiker
If you’ve followed instruction so far then great. You’re in Sharpsburg. Here’s a place that’s an 8 minute walk from Dancing Gnome, which is nothing even though you haven’t been doing cardio like you promised yourself you would. I love Hitchhiker because they can brew IPAs with the best, but can also throw out fun styles like smoothie sours and pastry stouts. There’s something for everyone – including that one friend whose beer is always suspiciously full.
Allegheny City
ACB is a homey spot on the North Side where you get treated like family. They’ve got some classics like the Deutschtown Brown, Oceanic IPA, and Northside Buzz but always have something new on tap. Stop by during the Deutschtown Music Festival!
Spring Hill
A true hidden gem, the brewery resides at the top of Spring Hill with a breathtaking view of that giant UPMC logo on top of the US Steel Tower. The whole brewery is run by Greg, who churns out delicious farmhouse ales inspired by ancient brewing techniques. You won’t find a hazy double IPA here, but if you’re open to new styles make the trip. Join the beer club! It’s about the same price as a Bucco’s ticket.
Hop Farm
This place has more great beers than tables. They constantly brew new styles, often with local hops. The staff is friendly, the food is outstanding, and I feel like they recognize me by now (maybe they’re just nice).
Stick City
If you’re a Butler County folk:
- Congrats on avoiding Allegheny County taxes
- Go to Stick City
If this place was closer to the city it might be the number one spot in town. Their brewing styles are diverse and spot-on and 1% goes to saving the earth. Not drinking there means you hate the planet.
I’ll give shout-outs to Cinderlands, Eleventh Hour and Trace brewing as well. But what if you don’t like the taste of beer? Well then why the hell did you read this far? Drink local. – Queens.
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