Buffalo, NY Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Trail
In Buffalo, New York, a resurgence of craft beer culture has become a significant part of the city's identity. Amidst the revitalized waterfront and architectural gems, local breweries are crafting a name for themselves with innovative and flavorful beers. These breweries are more than just production sites; they are community spaces where Buffalonians gather to celebrate local craft and camaraderie. The array of options ranges from stouts and IPAs to sours and ciders, ensuring that there is something to satisfy every palate.
The local craft beer scene in Buffalo is supported by a network of aficionados and entrepreneurs dedicated to quality and community. These local businesses not only brew beer but also create cider and wine while engaging with their neighbors. With the collective mission of delivering the freshest products, the Buffalocal collective epitomizes this community-oriented spirit.
Buffalo's breweries aren't just about the beer—they are integral parts of the local fabric, contributing to Buffalo's growing reputation for fine craft beer. Establishments like Big Ditch Brewing Co. serve as prime examples of the dual nature of these spaces: both social hubs and providers of top-tier craft beverages. Visitors and residents alike can explore these vibrant spots, ensuring a rich experience of Buffalo's craft beer landscape.
The Rise of Buffalo's Craft Beer Scene
Buffalo, NY has witnessed a dynamic growth in its craft beer scene, emerging from a rich history to become a hub for beer enthusiasts.
History of Beer in Buffalo
The origins of Buffalo's beer culture date back to the early 19th century. By 1811, Buffalo's first brewery-tavern had been established in Black Rock before succumbing to fire during the War of 1812. The arrival of the Erie Canal in 1825 marked a turning point, transforming Buffalo into a bustling shipping center and scaling up its beer production. Ingress of wheat and raw materials surged, laying a robust foundation for brewing.
Buffalo's Craft Beer Renaissance
In recent years, Buffalo has experienced a craft beer renaissance, becoming a fertile ground for the craft beer movement. Community-driven and infused with local pride, breweries in Buffalo have turned the city into a beacon for craft beer in Western New York. 42 North Brewing Company embodies this spirit with its sitting in East Aurora, offering an array of sour ales in a rustic taproom setting. Meanwhile, establishments like Thin Man Brewery, with locations on Elmwood and Chandler, merge social media appeal with quality brews, showcasing the innovation that is emblematic of Buffalo craft beer. The economic impact is notable, with the craft brewing sector contributing substantially to Erie County's economy. Buffalo's local craft beer scene thrives on a combination of historical reverence and a renewed passion for community and quality.
Discovering Buffalo's Breweries
Buffalo, NY, is renowned for its burgeoning craft beer scene, with a diverse range of breweries that cater to aficionados and casual drinkers alike. Each establishment serves as a testament to the creativity and passion that define the region's beer culture.
Notable Breweries in Buffalo
Big Ditch Brewing Co.: Situated in the heart of downtown Buffalo, Big Ditch Brewing Co. has established itself as a standout brewery and restaurant. Their spacious taproom welcomes guests who enjoy their finely crafted beers, such as their flagship Hayburner IPA.
Community Beer Works: Known for its innovative approach, this local brewery prides itself on small-batch artisanal creations, fostering a strong sense of community through their special events and an eclectic beer lineup.
Flying Bison (What wine goes well with bison?) Brewing Company: A pioneer with deep roots, Flying Bison was the city's first production brewery since the Iroquois Brewing Company. They offer a solid range of classic brews and are well-regarded for their Rusty Chain, an Austrian-inspired amber lager.
Pressure Drop Brewing: Housed in the revitalized Old First Ward, Pressure Drop Brewing is part of the wave of new-edge breweries that are reshaping Buffalo's beer landscape with bold flavors and unique beer styles.
Resurgence Brewing Company: An ode to Buffalo’s revival, Resurgence operates locations that reflect a blend of contemporary tastes and the city’s industrious spirit. They are noted for their inventive brews and family-friendly environments.
Suburban Brewery Highlights
The suburbs of Buffalo are not without their own beer havens, offering an escape from the downtown bustle with a variety of distinct and inviting breweries:
Hamburg Brewing Company: Nestled in Hamburg, this brewery boasts an array of beers that pair with the inviting ambiance of their location, offering a serene lakeside view while patrons savor their quality drafts.
42 North Brewing Company: Based in East Aurora, it serves as a prime example of suburban ingenuity, providing a cozy, rustic setting for beer lovers to explore their extensive and varied beverage options.
West Shore Brewing Company: Known for both its homage to traditional styles and forays into modern brewing in Clarence, they ensure that visitors have a memorable tasting experience with their quality concoctions.
The breweries in and around Buffalo, NY, embody the spirit of innovation and tradition. These establishments contribute significantly to the local economy and culture, inviting enthusiasts and newcomers alike to enjoy the craft beer experience.
Guide to Buffalo's Beer Bars
Buffalo, NY, is celebrated for its vibrant craft beer scene. The city's beer bars offer a glimpse into its rich brewing culture, showcasing both classic and innovative local brews.
Top Beer Bars in Buffalo
Colter Bay
A Mainstay on Delaware Avenue, Colter Bay draws in beer aficionados with its extensive draft list featuring many Buffalo brews.
Allen Burger Venture
Set in the bustling Allentown district, Allen Burger Venture pairs gourmet burgers with a selection of craft beers, further cementing Elmwood Avenue's reputation as a hub for beer lovers.
Griffon Gastropub
With several locations, including one near Niagara Falls, The Griffon Gastropub tempts guests with an impressive selection of beers and a diverse food menu that complements a pint perfectly.
Beer Bars Beyond Buffalo
Hydraulic Hearth
Located in Larkinville, Hydraulic Hearth is not only revered for its cocktails but also operates as a satellite brewery for Community Beer Works, offering fresh beers crafted on-site.
Fattey Beer
Boasting locations in Hamburg and Orchard Park, Fattey Beer serves up a wide range of craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere, ensuring that the love for local brews spreads beyond Buffalo's city limits.
Exploring Beer Styles and Selections
Buffalo, NY, showcases a diverse spectrum of craft beers, each with unique characteristics. This section walks through the basics of craft beer styles and highlights favorites among the local offerings.
Understanding Craft Beer Styles
Craft beer is an art form with a rich palette of styles ranging from the hop-heavy IPAs to smooth, creamy stouts. Each style is defined by specific parameters, including alcohol content, flavor profile, and color. For instance, IPAs (India Pale Ales) are known for their strong hop bitterness and fruity notes, whereas stouts offer a darker, roasted malt flavor that can include chocolate or coffee undertones.
In Buffalo's craft beer scene, aficionados appreciate the full-bodied richness of porters, with their balance of fruity-dryness and roasted malt character. Another favored style is the pilsner, a type of lager that presents a crisp and refreshing taste, often with a light hop aroma.
Popular Local Beer Picks
Buffalo takes pride in its local craft beer selections, with each brewery offering a lineup that pays homage to traditional brewing while also embracing modern twists. Here are some of the selections catching attention in the local craft beer community:
IPAs: Enjoyed for their bold flavors and hop-forward profiles. Local breweries often feature a range from double IPAs to session IPAs, catering to various preferences for bitterness and strength.
Stouts: Savored for their depth and complexity, with local creations often including additional elements like oatmeal or bourbon-barrel aging to enhance the flavor.
Sours: A style that has been gaining popularity, sours are tart and funky. Local breweries experiment with techniques like kettle souring to create approachable and refreshing sour beers.
Light options: Not to be overlooked, lighter craft beers are also celebrated, with offerings like golden ales and wheat beers providing a more nuanced drinking experience.
Buffalo's brewers are committed to crafting beers that reflect the community's taste and character. Whether an individual prefers robust and hearty ales or light and crisp lagers, Buffalo's craft beer offerings ensure a memorable experience for every palate.
Navigating Local Craft Beer Purchases
When exploring Buffalo, NY's vibrant craft beer scene, consumers have various options for purchasing bottles and cans, each offering a range of types and availability.
Bottle Shops and Where to Buy
Buffalo's craft beer enthusiasts are well catered to by specialized bottle shops that stock a multitude of local brews. Two prominent venues worth mentioning are:
Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve: Located at 2182 Seneca Street, Buffalo, it offers a diverse selection of local craft beers in both cans and bottles.
Brewed and Bottled: A go-to venue for those looking to explore an expansive array of crafted options.
These shops pride themselves on providing a curated experience for customers, often stocking limited-edition brews and seasonal offerings.
Craft Beer Availability and Types
Availability can vary based on production, seasonality, and brewery releases. Consumers typically find a wide variety of types – from IPAs to stouts, and saisons to sours – in local bottle shops. These types are available:
IPA: A hop-forward beer known for its bitterness and citrus profiles.
Stout: Dark, rich, and often with notes of chocolate and coffee.
Saison: A pale ale known for its high carbonation, fruity and spicy notes.
Sour: This type features a tart and tangy taste, which makes it distinctive.
Local bottle shops usually update their inventory based on what is freshly brewed, ensuring craft beer followers have access to the latest offerings from Buffalo's finest breweries.
Engaging with the Beer Community
Buffalo, NY, boasts a vibrant craft beer community with numerous opportunities for enthusiasts to connect and stay informed on the latest happenings. From local events to dedicated craft beer writing, Buffalo is a city brimming with ways to engage with fellow beer lovers.
Craft Beer Events and News
Buffalo's craft beer scene is dynamic, with Buffalocal often at the forefront of organizing and promoting events that bring the community together. They provide opportunities for residents and visitors to sample the best local brews, fostering a sense of community among craft beer fans. Subscribers to Buffalocal's newsletter or similar services can stay updated on upcoming events such as beer tastings, brewery tours, and local beer fests.
Craft beer enthusiasts should also keep an eye out for annual events like the WNYBeerTrail, which celebrates Buffalo and Rochester’s craft beer offerings. It is an ideal way for individuals to explore new flavors and connect with like-minded beer aficionados.
Connecting with Buffalo Beer Enthusiasts
Engagement with the Buffalo beer community doesn't end with events; social networks and local bars are frequented by those passionate about craft beer. The city has dedicated craft beer bars and bottle shops, such as Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve and Fattey Beer, where patrons can not only stock up on beer in Buffalo but also strike up conversations with local beer enthusiasts.
Social media platforms and Buffalo-based craft beer groups can also be excellent resources for connecting with others and sharing individual experiences with different craft beer varieties. Through these engagements, enthusiasts gain access to a plethora of insights and personal recommendations, enhancing their appreciation and understanding of the local craft beer landscape.
Pairing Food and Craft Beer
Buffalo's craft beer scene is rich and diverse, offering plenty of opportunities for pairing local brews with delicious food. From the best beer and burger combinations to fine dining options, savvy patrons can elevate their culinary experience by matching the right beer with their meal.
Buffalo's Best Beer and Burger Spots
Buffalo takes burgers as seriously as its beer. Allen Burger Venture stands out with a selection of gourmet burgers that pair beautifully with Buffalocal craft beers. One cannot visit Buffalo without trying the classic combination of a rich stout or robust porter alongside a juicy burger, perhaps topped with blue cheese for a truly local flavor.
Must-Try Pairing:
Burger: Signature burger with caramelized onions and blue cheese
Beer: Locally brewed stout, offering notes of coffee and chocolate to complement the savory burger
Craft Beer and Cuisine Combinations
The art of pairing craft beer with cuisine is all about balance and enhancement. Each dish, whether decadent poutine or a refined entrée, can be heightened with the right brew.
Poutine and Ale
Dish: Hand-cut fries loaded with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy
Beer: A crisp blonde ale or cream ale cuts through the richness while enhancing the flavors
Fine Dining
Craft beer isn't just for casual dining. Consider pairing an IPA bursting with citrus notes alongside a citrus-dressed salad adorned with feta or goat cheese.
By considering the flavor profiles of both the beer and the dish, diners can create a symphony of tastes that enhance the dining experience.
Beyond Beer: Related Local Businesses
In Buffalo, NY, the craft beer scene extends beyond the breweries to include a variety of local businesses that have embraced the culture and contribute to the community's vibrant beer-loving atmosphere.
Local Businesses Embracing Craft Beer Culture
These Buffalo businesses incorporate the love for craft beer into their core offerings, enhancing the overall experience for those seeking to explore local flavors and crafts.
Magic Bear Beer Cellar: This establishment isn't just a beer store; it's a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated selection of beer from around Buffalo and beyond. Locals and visitors alike can find a diverse range of beers to enjoy.
The Barrel Factory: Nestled in the historic Old First Ward, The Barrel Factory is home to a craft distillery, a kombucha brewery, and more. It stands as a testament to the versatility of repurposing spaces to celebrate local craft drinks and spirits.
Craft Beer-Inspired Ventures
Craft beer influence has spurred the growth of related ventures, cultivating an ecosystem where businesses thrive by complementing the brewery experience.
Bottle Shops and Tasting Rooms
Extensive Selection: A number of shops offer a wide variety of craft beers, often paired with tastings and events that showcase local brews.
Support for Local Breweries: These businesses help bolster local breweries by featuring their products prominently and educating customers on the region's beer offerings.
Restaurants and Brewpubs
Craft Beer Pairings: Several eateries have emerged that specifically focus on creating menus that pair exquisitely with local craft beers, elevating the dining experience.
Exclusive Brews: Some establishments collaborate with breweries to offer exclusive brews, providing a unique pull for beer aficionados.
Events and Collaborations
Beer-Centric Events: Businesses host events that highlight craft beer, ranging from festivals to themed nights, engaging a wide audience.
Collaborative Efforts: Cross-promotion between different types of businesses helps to drive interest and traffic, benefiting the entire craft beer community.
By intertwining with the craft beer culture, these enterprises not only support the breweries but also reinforce the robust community of beer lovers in Buffalo.
Craft Beer Tourism in Western New York
Western New York, especially Buffalo, NY, has become a noteworthy craft beer destination with a variety of breweries, beer bars, and tours that appeal to beer enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
Craft Beer Destinations for Tourists
Buffalo, NY, known for its industrial past and proximity to Niagara Falls, offers an impressive array of craft beer experiences for tourists. Notable breweries like Buffalo Brewing Company and Flying Bison Brewing Co. have set a high standard with quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere. For those looking to explore the local beer culture, destinations such as Fattey Beer in Hamburg and Orchard Park provide a comfortable spot to sample a wide selection of local beers.
Buffalo Brewing Company
314 Myrtle Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204Flying Bison Brewing Co.
Tours and tastings available Wednesday through Saturday.Fattey Beer
Locations in Hamburg and Orchard Park.
Craft beer bars such as Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve and BTR Brews feature carefully curated beer selections, highlighting local and regional craft beers.
Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve
2182 Seneca Street, Buffalo, NYBTR Brews
15 N Main Street, Angola, NY
Craft Beer Tours and Trail Recommendations
Visitors to the region can take advantage of the WNY Beer Trail, which guides them through a journey of local breweries and craft beer bars across Western New York, from Buffalo to Rochester and the Finger Lakes region. Participating locations, such as the craft beer-friendly establishments of Buffalo and its surrounding towns, showcase the area's pride in its local beer production.
For a more structured experience, there are various craft beer tours that include transportation and guided tastings at multiple breweries. These tours often provide an educational element, sharing insights about the brewing process and local beer history.
