Western New York's Exclusive Beer Scene Unveiled

Western New York is known for its thriving beer scene, with a variety of breweries, bars, and unique beer experiences to explore. From well-known favourites like Busch Light to the quirky and exclusive, there is something for every beer lover in this region. The Buffalo-Niagara region, in particular, stands out for its exceptional beer bars, while the city of Buffalo itself is a hub of beer enthusiasts, with different drinking personalities to match. Whether you're seeking cheap beers to chill out with or fancy something more craft-focused, Western New York has you covered.

Western New York's favourite cheap beer: Busch Light

Western New Yorkers looking for a cheap beer to crack open and enjoy need look no further than Busch Light. This refreshing brew is a favourite of the region, and for good reason. With its crisp and smooth taste, it's like a mountain stream on a hot summer's day. And with a focus on fishing, hunting, farming, NASCAR and country music, the brand speaks to the passions of many a Western New Yorker.

But don't let the low price fool you – Busch Light is made with exceptional ingredients and has experienced consistent growth since 2019. It's no wonder that it's become a go-to for those looking for an affordable and delicious beer. Whether you're casting a rod from the dock or just kicking back and relaxing, Busch Light is the perfect choice.

And for those looking for something a little different, Busch Light has introduced limited-edition flavoured lagers, such as Busch Light Apple and Busch Light Peach. These beers offer a refreshing twist on the classic, with a crisp and fruity flavour that's perfect for summertime sipping. So if you're looking for a tasty treat that won't break the bank, Busch Light and its flavoured varieties are sure to hit the spot.

So why has Busch Light become such a favourite in Western New York? Well, it ticks all the boxes – it's affordable, widely available, and, most importantly, it tastes great. It's the perfect beer to enjoy with friends, whether you're cheering on your favourite NASCAR driver or just enjoying a day out in the great outdoors. So next time you're looking for a cold one to crack open, why not give Busch Light a try? It's sure to become your new go-to!

The best beer bars in Western New York

Western New York is known for its exceptional beer bars, serving the finest libations and offering a wide variety of unique beers. Here is a list of some of the best beer bars in the region:

Allen Burger Venture (ABV)

With over 20 rotating taps of fresh craft beer, bourbon flights, and a variety of unique burgers, Allen Burger Venture (ABV) offers a satisfying combination of beer and burgers.

Mr. Goodbar

A staple in the Elmwood area since 1968, Mr. Goodbar offers over 30 taps, a beer engine pouring micro and import cask-conditioned ales, and canned and bottled beer from around the world. They also have some of the area's best chicken wings and offer beer-centric events and live music most nights.

Colter Bay

Co-owners Mike Shatzel and Tony Martina transformed Colter Bay into a ski lodge-themed bar with over 25 taps of craft beer. The inviting atmosphere, featuring burnished gold bar stools and copper accents, makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a pint.

Coles

Coles has been a Buffalo institution for over 80 years and is a favorite neighborhood watering hole. With over three dozen taps featuring local and non-local brews, along with a wide variety of wings, sandwiches, and burgers, it's easy to see why.

Thin Man Brewery

Located in the heart of Elmwood Village, Thin Man Brewery combines its own creations, including a stable of hoppy IPAs, with a vast selection of beers from near and far. With three floors, a rooftop patio, and a food menu that includes poutine and burgers, it's a great spot to enjoy a beer and catch a game.

Liberty Hound

Located in the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, Liberty Hound offers picturesque waterfront views and a dozen different draft beers and handcrafted cocktails. Pair your beer with contemporary dishes like Truffle Fries and Saku Tuna Nachos, or enjoy their outdoor seating area.

Hydraulic Hearth

Hydraulic Hearth is a premier location for craft cocktails and houses a satellite brewery for Community Beer Works. They offer fresh CBW beers made in-house, as well as gourmet wood-fired pizzas that perfectly complement their selection of 11 beers and ciders on tap. Enjoy their weekly brunch events, live music, and massive outdoor seating area.

Pizza Plant

Pizza Plant is one of the oldest and best beer bars in the region, offering a relaxed atmosphere and an informed beer staff. With locations in Transit Road and Canalside, they feature live music, tap takeover events, and happy hour specials. The Canalside location is also within walking distance of the waterfront, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a beer.

Aurora Brew Works

Aurora Brew Works in East Aurora offers endless bottles and a handful of taps, along with the unique opportunity to drink beer while shopping for more. They have ample seating, board games, and a beer style wheel to help you decide on your drink. Catch them on a night when the Cellar is open for even more taps and a chic lounge vibe.

Moor Pat

Moor Pat is a craft beer bar that specializes in rare and hard-to-find beers. With knowledgeable staff and 20 constantly rotating taps, you'll find beers you normally can't find anywhere else. They also offer a limited food menu, including wings and pretzels, and a selection of bourbon, whiskey, and scotch.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, these beer bars in Western New York are sure to offer a unique and enjoyable experience.

The oldest brewpub in New York State

The Buffalo Brewpub: New York State's Oldest Brewpub

History

Buffalo Brewpub has been in business for over 30 years, offering more than 30 drafts on tap, including locally crafted creations, nationally recognized favourites, and international imports. The brewmasters use a unique 10-barrel system to produce a variety of styles, and guests can observe the brewing process directly from the dining room.

Offerings

The pub offers flights of beer, allowing visitors to sample multiple brews, and also provides complimentary peanuts and popcorn for a unique snacking experience. In addition to its extensive beer selection, Buffalo Brewpub has a delicious dining menu featuring items such as wings, Beef on Weck, Reuben Sandwiches, and Haddock Fish Fry, making it a beloved eatery among locals.

Mug Club

The pub also has its own Mug Club, boasting more than 10,000 past and present members, further showcasing its popularity and the loyalty it has earned from its patrons over the years.

Other Notable Breweries in Western New York

While Buffalo Brewpub holds the title of the oldest brewpub in New York State, there are several other notable breweries in the Western New York region. These include:

• Genesee Brewing Company in Rochester, one of the oldest breweries in the US, now owned by North American Breweries.
• Matt Brewing Company, another one of the oldest breweries in the US and the maker of Saranac beer.
• Southern Tier Brewing Company, with production breweries in Lakewood and brewpubs in Cleveland, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
• Ellicottville Brewing Company, with locations in Ellicottville, Bemus Point, and Fredonia.
• Big Ditch Brewing Company
• Blue Point Brewing Company, acquired by Duvel Moortgat Brewery in 2003 and Anheuser-Busch InBev in 2014.
• Brooklyn Brewery, the granddaddy of New York City breweries, founded in 1987, offering quirky, hyper-specific beers like the Worshipful Company of Brewers line.

These breweries showcase the vibrant craft beer culture that has developed in New York State over the last decade, with a variety of offerings that cater to different tastes and preferences.

The best places to buy a keg of beer in Western New York

Western New York is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and beer lovers in the region. While some people may prefer quantity over quality, there are also those who appreciate a good brew and are willing to pay for it. If you're looking to buy a keg of beer in Western New York, here are some of the best places to check out:

Local Breweries

Western New York is known for its breweries, and many of them offer kegs of their craft beers for purchase. Some popular breweries in the region include Other Half Brewing in Brooklyn, Gun Hill Brewing Co. in the Bronx, and Bridge and Tunnel Brewery in Queens. These breweries often have taprooms where you can sample their beers before purchasing a keg, and some may even offer exclusive beers that you can't find anywhere else.

Specialty Beer Stores

In addition to breweries, there are also dedicated beer stores in Western New York that specialise in selling a variety of beers, including kegs. These stores may offer a wider selection of brands and styles, giving you more options to choose from. Some popular beer stores in the region include NYC Beer & Kegs, which offers a wide range of beer kegs, from craft beers to standard lagers, and provides 1-hour delivery across New York.

Online Options

If you prefer the convenience of shopping from home, there are also online options for purchasing beer kegs in Western New York. Websites like nycbeerkegs.com offer a wide selection of beer kegs from various brands, and they provide quick delivery services. You can compare prices and brands from the comfort of your home and have your keg delivered right to your doorstep.

Bars and Restaurants

Bars and restaurants in Western New York that serve beer may also be willing to sell kegs to customers. This could be a great option if you're looking for a specific beer that you've tried and loved at a particular establishment. It's always worth inquiring about the possibility of purchasing a keg directly from them.

Local Distributors

Finally, there may be local alcohol distributors or liquor stores in Western New York that carry a selection of beer kegs. These distributors often have relationships with breweries and can source kegs for special events or occasions. They may offer competitive prices and convenient pick-up or delivery options.

Remember to enjoy your beer responsibly, and always have a designated driver or alternative transportation arranged if you plan to consume alcohol.

The best beer stores in Western New York

While Western New York is known for its bars and breweries, there are also plenty of beer stores to choose from. Whether you're looking for a specialty beer store or a grocery store with a great selection, you're sure to find something to suit your needs.

Fattey Beer Co.

Described as a "unique bottle shop, tasting bar, brewing supplier, and social centre", Fattey Beer Co. offers fridges with 400+ bottles and cans from around the world, as well as taps, flights, and growler fills. They also host a wide range of educational events and brewmaster visits.

Aurora Brew Works

Aurora Brew Works in East Aurora offers endless bottles and a handful of taps, as well as the rare opportunity to drink beer while shopping for more. They have ample seating and board games to pass the time, and you can purchase beer to drink right at the shop for a small fee.

Moor Pat/Moor Room

This craft beer bar specializes in rare and hard-to-find beers, with a very knowledgeable staff pouring from 20 constantly rotating taps. They also offer a quality can and bottle selection, as well as a limited food menu and a healthy list of bourbon, whiskey, and scotch.

Murphy Brown's Craft Beer Emporium

Located in the Northtowns, Murphy Brown's stands out for its impressively long list of beers on tap, with a handful of local options. They also have a full food menu, including burgers, pizza, and wings.

Ebenezer Ale House

Ebenezer Ale House in West Seneca offers an extensive selection of craft beers, top-notch service, and a comfortable environment. They feature daily drink and food specials, as well as regularly occurring events and promotions. With multiple TVs, it's a great place to catch a game.

Magic Bear Beer Cellar

If you're looking to gain a greater understanding of beer, Magic Bear Beer Cellar is the place to go. This craft beer bottle shop and tasting bar focus on the education and elevation of craft beer, and they also offer wine and food.

Southern Tier Brewing Co.

Located in the heart of Canalside, Southern Tier offers a great bar atmosphere to grab a drink and catch a game on their big screen. They have 30 taps open at any given time, so there's something for everyone.

42 North Brewing Company

42 North Brewing Company in East Aurora creates its own brews and has a rustic taproom with 20 drafts, bottles, and cans. It's a great place to hang out with friends and play some games. They also offer lofts if you want to stay the night.

Frequently asked questions