Rochester, NY has emerged as a craft beer lover’s paradise, boasting a vibrant and diverse brewing scene. The city and surrounding Monroe County are home to numerous breweries, cideries, and taprooms that offer unique and flavorful beverages. With over 30 craft breweries and cideries in the area, Rochester provides beer enthusiasts with an extensive selection of locally-brewed options.
Visitors and locals alike can explore a range of brewing styles and atmospheres, from spacious beer halls with soaring ceilings to cozy taprooms with intimate settings. Many Rochester breweries not only serve exceptional beers but also host events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the craft beer culture. The Rochester Real Beer Expo in June and the Flour City Brewers Fest in August are two notable events that showcase the region’s brewing talent.
Popular breweries in Rochester include Strangebird, Three Heads Brewing, and Swiftwater Brewery. Each establishment offers its own unique take on craft beer, contributing to the city’s reputation as a destination for beer lovers. Whether one prefers hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, Rochester’s craft beer scene has something to satisfy every palate.
History of Rochester’s Brewing Scene
Rochester’s brewing history stretches back to the mid-19th century. By 1855, the city boasted numerous breweries producing ales and lagers for thirsty residents.
The American Brewing Company, founded in 1855, was an early major player. Other prominent breweries emerged in the following decades as Rochester’s beer industry flourished.
Prohibition dealt a heavy blow in 1919, forcing most breweries to close. Only five reopened after its repeal in 1933.
Genesee Brewing Company, established in 1878, survived Prohibition and went on to become Rochester’s largest and most influential brewery. It continues operations today as part of North American Breweries.
Rochester’s craft beer renaissance began in 1991 with the opening of Rohrbach Brewing Company. As one of New York State’s first craft breweries, Rohrbach paved the way for a new era.
The city’s craft scene has expanded significantly since then. Rochester now boasts nine craft breweries, with more in surrounding areas.
These newer breweries complement Rochester’s rich brewing heritage. They offer diverse styles and flavors to beer enthusiasts while honoring the city’s long brewing tradition.
Today, Rochester’s beer scene blends historic legacy with modern craft innovation. Both large-scale producers and small craft operations contribute to the city’s vibrant beer culture.
Guide to Rochester Brewpubs
Rochester’s brewpubs offer unique experiences for craft beer enthusiasts. These establishments combine on-site brewing with delicious food options, creating perfect spaces to enjoy local flavors.
Rohrbach Brewing Company
Rohrbach Brewing Company stands as Rochester’s first craft brewery. Founded in 1991, it has two locations in the city. The Railroad Street Beer Hall showcases their brewing process and offers a full menu.
Rohrbach’s flagship beers include the Highland Lager and Scotch Ale. Seasonal offerings rotate throughout the year. The brewpub pairs its beers with wood-fired pizzas and hearty sandwiches.
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process. Rohrbach also hosts events like trivia nights and live music performances.
Genesee Brew House
The Genesee Brew House combines history with modern craft brewing. Located in a renovated packaging center, it overlooks High Falls and the Genesee River.
The brewpub features a pilot brewery where brewers experiment with small-batch recipes. Visitors can sample these unique creations alongside Genesee classics.
Food options include beer-battered fish fry and pretzels with beer cheese. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Rochester’s skyline.
Interactive exhibits detail the brewery’s 140-year history. Guided tours provide insights into both traditional and modern brewing techniques.
The Old Toad
The Old Toad brings a slice of British pub culture to Rochester. This authentic English-style pub is staffed by British university students on work visas.
While not a brewery itself, The Old Toad curates an impressive selection of local and imported craft beers. The rotating tap list features Rochester breweries alongside UK favorites.
Traditional British fare like fish and chips pairs well with the beer selection. The pub’s cozy atmosphere encourages conversation and community.
Regular events include quiz nights and cask ale festivals. The Old Toad’s commitment to authenticity extends to its decor, featuring vintage British advertisements and memorabilia.
Top Rochester Breweries
Rochester boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous exceptional breweries. Three standout establishments have garnered particular acclaim for their innovative brews and inviting atmospheres.
Three Heads Brewing
Three Heads Brewing has become a cornerstone of Rochester’s beer culture since opening in 2016. Their spacious taproom on Atlantic Avenue offers a rotating selection of 20+ beers on tap.
The brewery is known for bold, hop-forward IPAs like The Kind and Too Kind Double IPA. They also produce popular seasonal offerings such as the Strawberry Milkshake IPA.
Three Heads hosts frequent events including live music and trivia nights. Their outdoor beer garden provides a relaxing spot to enjoy a pint in warmer months.
Swiftwater Brewing Company
Swiftwater Brewing Company opened in 2015 in Rochester’s South Wedge neighborhood. The brewery focuses on small-batch beers with locally-sourced ingredients.
Their tap list changes frequently but often features creative styles like their Piña Colada Milkshake IPA and Maple Brown Ale. Swiftwater also produces several sour beers and barrel-aged varieties.
The cozy taproom offers a full food menu with items that pair well with their beers. Visitors can take brewery tours on weekends to learn about Swiftwater’s brewing process.
Fifth Frame Brewing Co
Fifth Frame Brewing Co combines craft beer, specialty coffee, and breakfast/lunch fare. Located downtown, it’s become a popular spot for both early risers and evening drinkers.
The brewery produces a range of styles from hazy IPAs to rich stouts. Their coffee-infused beers like the Cold Brew Coffee Blonde Ale showcase their dual expertise.
Fifth Frame’s bright, modern taproom features plenty of seating and a full espresso bar. They host regular events like beer yoga and run clubs that bring the community together.
Exploring Local Craft Beers
Rochester’s craft beer scene boasts a diverse array of flavors and styles. From crisp lagers to bold IPAs, there’s something to satisfy every beer enthusiast’s palate.
Lagers and Ales
Rochester breweries excel at crafting refreshing lagers and flavorful ales. Many local spots offer classic pilsners with a crisp, clean taste. American pale ales are popular choices, featuring balanced hop profiles and malty backbones.
Some breweries put unique twists on traditional styles. Look for cream ales with a smooth, easy-drinking character. Wheat beers often incorporate local ingredients for added flavor complexity.
For those who enjoy darker options, try a locally brewed amber ale or brown ale. These styles typically have rich malt flavors with hints of caramel or chocolate.
IPAs and Stouts
India Pale Ales dominate many Rochester tap lists. New England-style hazy IPAs showcase tropical fruit flavors and low bitterness. West Coast IPAs deliver bold hop aromas and a dry finish.
Double and triple IPAs pack a punch for hop lovers. These high-alcohol brews often feature intense citrus and pine notes.
Stout enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Oatmeal stouts offer a silky mouthfeel and roasted coffee flavors. Imperial stouts bring rich chocolate and dark fruit notes.
Milk stouts provide a sweeter option with lactose adding creaminess. Some local brewers age their stouts in bourbon barrels for added complexity.
Scotch Ale and Seasonal Specials
Scotch ales, also known as “wee heavies,” are a Rochester specialty. These malt-forward brews typically have caramel and toffee flavors with a subtle smokiness.
Many breweries rotate seasonal offerings throughout the year. Spring often brings fruit-infused wheat beers and crisp kolsches. Summer features refreshing saisons and light lagers.
Fall ushers in Oktoberfest-style märzens and pumpkin ales. Winter warmers and barrel-aged strong ales are perfect for colder months.
Look for creative small-batch releases that showcase unique ingredients or brewing techniques. These limited editions allow brewers to experiment and push boundaries.
Beer Tasting and Tours
Rochester’s craft beer scene offers excellent opportunities for tasting and touring. Several companies organize guided experiences to explore local breweries and taprooms.
Crush Beer & Wine Tours provides Signature Beer Tours, accommodating groups of various sizes. They offer pickups from central locations in Rochester, making it convenient for visitors.
RocTours specializes in beer tours along the Erie Canal. Their excursions typically include tastings at multiple venues, showcasing a variety of local brews.
For a unique experience, Rochester Pedal Tours offers brewery crawls. Participants can bring their own beverages while pedaling through the city, visiting different craft beer establishments.
Many local breweries feature taprooms where visitors can sample flights or enjoy full pours. These often include:
- Farm breweries, offering a rustic setting
- Rochester Tap Room, showcasing a rotating selection of local beers
- The Beer Market, providing a wide range of craft options
Tours typically operate year-round, with some companies offering special winter schedules. Visitors should check availability and book in advance, especially for weekend tours.
Most venues on beer tours also offer alternatives like local wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic options to cater to diverse preferences.
Events and Live Music Venues
Rochester’s craft beer scene is complemented by a vibrant live music culture. Many breweries host regular performances, creating a perfect blend of great beer and entertainment.
Three Heads Brewing stands out as a popular spot for live music. The spacious venue features local and touring acts several nights a week, paired with their diverse beer selection.
Craft beer festivals occur throughout the year in Rochester. These events showcase local breweries and often include live music performances. The Rochester Real Beer Expo is a standout, typically held in June.
Unter Biergarten offers a unique experience, combining German-inspired beers with live music. Their events calendar includes a mix of local artists and themed music nights.
Iron Smoke Distillery, while primarily known for spirits, also hosts live band karaoke. This adds a fun twist to the typical brewery experience.
K2 Brothers Brewing features live music events, such as performances by local artists like Dave Turner. These intimate shows provide a cozy atmosphere for enjoying craft beers.
For those seeking a comprehensive guide to Rochester’s music scene, Get Your Gig On is a valuable resource. It provides up-to-date information on live music events across various venues, including breweries.
The Rochester Craft Beer Culture
Rochester’s craft beer scene is vibrant and diverse, with a strong emphasis on community and innovation. Local breweries collaborate frequently and push boundaries with creative brewing techniques and unique flavor combinations.
Local Collaboration and Community
Rochester’s craft breweries often work together on special releases and events. The Rochester Real Beer Expo in June showcases 65 breweries, cideries, and other craft beverage producers. Flour City Brewers Fest in August celebrates local craft beverages with live music and food. These events strengthen ties between brewers and beer enthusiasts.
Many Rochester breweries support local farmers by sourcing ingredients from the Finger Lakes region. This farm-to-glass approach enhances the connection between brewers, agriculture, and consumers. Taprooms serve as community gathering spaces, hosting events and fostering a sense of neighborhood camaraderie.
Innovations in Brewing
Rochester brewers are known for experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing methods. Some incorporate local fruits, herbs, and even coffee into their beers, creating distinctive flavor profiles. Barrel-aging programs have gained popularity, with breweries using wine, bourbon, and other spirit barrels to impart complex flavors.
Several Rochester breweries have embraced sour and wild fermentation techniques, producing tart and funky beers that appeal to adventurous palates. Others focus on reviving historical beer styles or creating modern twists on traditional recipes. This spirit of innovation keeps the Rochester craft beer scene dynamic and exciting for both locals and visitors.
Where to Buy Rochester Craft Beer
Rochester offers several options for purchasing local craft beer. Specialty stores and major retailers carry a wide selection of regional brews for beer enthusiasts to enjoy at home.
Specialty Stores and Markets
One Stop Brew Shop is a premier destination for craft beer in Rochester. They offer an extensive selection of local and regional beers on tap and in cans and bottles. The shop provides growler fills and keg rentals for those looking to stock up.
AJ’s Beer Warehouse is another top choice for craft beer aficionados. They carry a large assortment of Rochester-area brews as well as national and international craft options. Knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on customer preferences.
585 Rochester Beer, a family-owned business since 1984, specializes in craft, domestic, and imported beers. They offer delivery services Tuesday through Saturday for added convenience.
Wegmans and Beers of the World Outlets
Wegmans supermarkets feature an impressive beer section with many local Rochester craft options. Their knowledgeable staff can assist customers in selecting from their rotating inventory of regional brews.
Beers of the World on Henrietta Road boasts a vast selection of domestic and imported craft beers. They carry products from popular Rochester breweries alongside lesser-known regional offerings. The store’s expansive inventory makes it a go-to spot for discovering new local craft beers.
Both Wegmans and Beers of the World regularly update their selections to include seasonal and limited-release craft beers from Rochester breweries. This ensures customers can always find something new and exciting to try.
Craft Beer Pairings and Food
Rochester’s thriving craft beer scene pairs perfectly with the city’s diverse culinary offerings. Many local breweries collaborate with restaurants to create unique food and beer experiences.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a Rochester institution, offers a selection of craft beers that complement their smoky barbecue. Their hoppy IPAs cut through rich, fatty meats, while malty amber ales enhance the flavors of their signature sauces.
The Playhouse/Swillburger combines arcade games, craft beer, and gourmet burgers. Their rotating tap list features local brews that pair well with their creative burger combinations. A crisp pilsner or wheat beer balances the richness of their loaded burgers.
Sticky Lips BBQ Juke Joint serves up Southern-style barbecue alongside a curated beer selection. Their smoky ribs and brisket find ideal companions in robust porters and stouts, while lighter lagers refresh the palate between bites.
Food pairings to consider with Rochester’s craft beers:
- IPAs: Spicy foods, sharp cheeses, grilled meats
- Stouts: Chocolate desserts, oysters, roasted meats
- Wheat beers: Salads, light fish dishes, citrus-infused foods
- Amber ales: Pizza, burgers, fried foods
Many Rochester breweries also offer their own food menus, designed to complement their beer offerings. These pairings showcase the versatility of craft beer in enhancing culinary experiences.
Outdoor and Seasonal Beer Spots
Rochester’s craft beer scene shines brightest when the weather warms up. Several local breweries offer outdoor seating options perfect for sipping a cold one on sunny days.
Strangebird Brewing features a spacious beer garden where patrons can relax with their craft brews. The casual outdoor setting provides an ideal backdrop for sampling their rotating tap list.
For stunning views, head to the rooftop patio at Genesee Brew House. This historic brewery overlooks High Falls and the Genesee River while serving up classic and seasonal beers.
Downtown Rochester boasts some excellent outdoor beer spots as well. The Angry Goat Pub has a charming patio where guests can enjoy craft beers from local and regional breweries.
Unter Biergarten brings a taste of Germany to Rochester with its outdoor biergarten. Visitors can savor German and local craft beers at long communal tables beneath string lights.
As the seasons change, many Rochester breweries offer special releases. Look for refreshing wheat beers and fruit-infused ales in summer, followed by rich stouts and barrel-aged brews come winter.
