New Kid on the Block Conshohocken Brewing Company burst onto scene in the spring with an impressive tap list of flagship beers, coupled with seasonal offerings. The brewery’s back deck is a great place to partake in a pint. Never skip the DIPA—ever. 739 E. Elm St., Suite B, Conshohocken, (610) 897-8962, www.conshohockenbrewing.com.
Avant-Garde Taps Tired Hands Brewing Company’s brewer Jean Broillet IV prides himself on his “beautiful, forward-thinking and strange beers.” The small-batch brews incorporate whimsical ingredients (mushrooms, pizza spices) for some of the best beers in the Philly area. 16 Ardmore Ave., Ardmore, (610) 896-7621, www.tiredhands.com.
Award-Winning Brews With 10 locations in the Tri-State area, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant has been on a winning streak. It recently nabbed “Champion Brewery and Brewmaster for a Small Brewpub” at the biannual World Beer Cup for an impressive third consecutive time. And five of its beers won big in style categories, including the Russian Imperial Stout at the Media location. Look for an Ardmore Iron Hill in the fall. Multiple locations, www.ironhillbrewery.com.
Rare Beers From locally brewed varieties to worldwide rarities, you just might unearth a new favorite brew at Teresa’s Next Door. Beer is also built into the food menu, with prime pours (like Tripel Van De Garre) arriving automatically with a cheese
plate. 124 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne, (610) 293-9909, www.teresas-cafe.com.
A Belgian Primer Half Moon Restaurant & Saloon scores big with 31 taps and a large Belgian-bottle selection. This funky restaurant complements its brews with a wild-game menu and rooftop dining. 108 W. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 444-7232,
www.halfmoonrestaurant.com.
Bottles Galore For one of the largest collections of bottles in the area, TJ’s Restaurant & Drinkery is the go-to spot. The menu highlights “100-mile beers,” along with categories for hoppy, hoppier and hoppiest. 35 Paoli Plaza, Paoli, (610) 725-0100, www.tjseveryday.com.
Neighborhood Feel, Craft Focus Brick and Brew, a rustic-chic, speakeasy-style pub, offers 12 rotating craft taps and an extensive selection of bottles and cans. The knowledgeable bartenders are happy to help you choose a beer based on your tastes, whether you’re craft-beer newbie or a serious aficionado. 2138 Darby Road, Havertown, (484) 455-7250, www.bricknbrewpub.com.
