Started by homebrewers Steve Anthony and Jeff McCullor in one garage and moved into a second, Erie Ale Works brews beer in an open-concept Erie taproom where guests sit beside the production equipment. The co-founders still shape the operation—Steve as brewing director and Jeff as marketing director and self-described floor sweeper—while the shop builds community through local events, charity fundraisers and donations of spent grain to a nearby farmer.
Brewers Association Independent Craft Brewery Seal
certification
Lavery Brewing CompanyFounded in 2009 by Pennsylvania residents Jason and Nicole Lavery, Lavery Brewing Company grew from a homebrewing experiment into a downtown Erie brewery and restaurant. Its team pairs a beer program known for hazy IPAs and crisp lagers with a food menu shaped by Chef Zach Pesch, while keeping community events central to the taproom’s identity.ERIE, PA
Paladin BrewingOpened in 2015 by Austintown couple John and Abby Chandler, Paladin Brewing makes locally brewed beer on a 15-barrel system and serves it in a family-friendly tavern. John’s home-brewing hobby grew into what the brewery describes as the Youngstown area’s first 15-barrel brewery, with more than 20 beer styles on tap and a kitchen added in 2021. The Chandlers also use the tavern as a community gathering place, hosting recurring events and fundraising drives that have raised thousands of dollars.AUSTINTOWN, OH
Allegheny City BrewingSince opening in Pittsburgh’s historic Deutschtown neighborhood in 2016, Allegheny City Brewing has brewed its beer onsite at a seven-barrel brewery. The neighborhood-based brewery pairs traditional styles with experimental concepts and now serves them through taprooms in Deutschtown, East Ohio Street, and Brighton Heights—the neighborhood where its owners were born and raised. Its East Ohio location adds a beer garden and space for local food trucks, live entertainment, and fundraisers.PITTSBURGH, PA
CoStar BrewingPittsburgh’s CoStar Brewing has been brewing in the region since 2011, with a philosophy that favors the quiet appeal of well-made beer over hype. Its Etna brewery and taproom extend that idea into a relaxed gathering place, including regular community events such as yoga in the brewery.ETNA, PA