Philadelphia, PA - If you are looking for some of the best brews in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, you will find them at one of Lancaster's numerous breweries. These include Wacker Brewing Company, Spring House Brewing Company, Columbia Kettle Works, and Lancaster Brewing Company. All of these locations offer distinct flavors and unique experiences.
1. Wacker Brewing Company
Based in an early 20th-century tobacco warehouse, Wacker Brewing Company produces beer on a 10-barrel system. The brewery's founder, Michael Spychalski, had the homebrewing experience but had no previous experience in the beer industry. He strives to create beers that are not only drinkable but also delicious. In addition to making traditional brews, Wacker also offers specialty beers. Its flagship beers include German Pale Ale and Wacker Beer. Its taproom will serve specialty beers and small bites. The brewery closed its taproom in 1956 but reopened in 2014 under new ownership.
2. River Trail Brewing
Lancaster's former Pig Iron Brewing began a makeover as River Trail Brewing. The restaurant, which features Pennsylvania-made beer, wine, and liquor, will now have a full breakfast menu and an outdoor bar. It is also planning to add an on-site bakery and take-out window. This brewery is located near downtown Lancaster. It serves Lancaster and York counties. It has several types of beers and a taproom. Its draft list includes Belgian dark ales, Helles lagers, several IPAs, and brandy sours. Its food is excellent, too.
3. Spring House Brewing Company
After a long hiatus, the Spring House Brewing Company has returned with a fresh focus on quality and innovation. While many local craft beer fans are familiar with the company's award-winning chocolate peanut butter stout, the brewery's pumpkin ale and other unique offerings have helped introduce the broader craft beer community to new styles. After successfully opening its taproom on 25 West King Street, the Spring House Brewing Company moved to a new location on Hazel Street four years later. The brewery continues to expand its brand through partnerships across the mid-Atlantic area.
4. Lancaster Brewing Company
The Lancaster Brewing Company is known for producing excellent craft beers in Lancaster County, PA. The area is home to some of the richest farmland in the world, so local ingredients are often used to create their beers. The food served at the brewery's two locations is locally produced, including meat, dairy, and produce. The company emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, utilizing advanced brewing techniques honed over 20 years in the industry. The Lancaster Brewing Company produces 20 beers throughout the year, with 12 available on tap at any time. Their beer is distributed throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and New York. They also offer tour options for customers interested in learning more about brewing.
5. Columbia Kettle Works
Columbia Kettle Works is a new craft microbrewery in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The brewery brews its own beers on-site and serves local wines. It has three locations in Lancaster County, serving the communities of Lancaster City, Adamstown, and Columbia. Each location features a variety of craft beers and a menu of tasty snacks and handcrafted paninis. CKW has received great reviews in Columbia and opened a taproom in Lancaster.
6. Moo-Duck Brewery
The Moo-Duck Brewery is a casual pub that offers housemade beers and locally sourced pub grub. It also features live music and a cozy atmosphere for a fun night out. It is located in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The brewery is renowned for handcrafting beer in small batches. Their eight rotating taps feature seasonal craft beers that range from light to dark, hoppy to malty, and session to imperial. The brewery's name is derived from a team of bird watchers that competed in the World Series of Birding. It is located in a former environmental education center. The Moo-Duck has fun with its beer, experimenting with traditional recipes. The Moo-Duck aims to serve craft beer that tastes great and is fun.
7. Mad Chef Craft Brewing
Mad Chef Craft Brewing is a brewpub that features signature craft brews made with the finest ingredients. The menu also features sandwiches and appetizers. Mad Chef has an industrial theme that will appeal to beer lovers. This Lancaster, Pennsylvania, location also features live music on select nights. Located just outside Lancaster, Mad Chef Craft Brewing is a unique dining experience that will appeal to beer lovers and locals alike. The brewery's taproom features 16 beers and will soon offer Pennsylvania wine and spirits. The restaurant opened in 2015, while the adjacent Cabalar Meat Company opened in the same space in 2018. The two restaurants aim to provide good food while keeping prices reasonable.
