ERIE, PA – Jason Lavery, a pioneer in the local brewing scene, has seen his establishment, Lavery Brewing Co., grow alongside the burgeoning craft beer movement in the Erie region. As the brewery approaches its sophomore anniversary, the changes it has undergone reflect its evolution into a vibrant community hub.
In 2023, the Laverys invested $750,000 into a significant renovation of their facility located at 128 W. 12th St. This upgrade has transformed the brewery, which previously required patrons to navigate a dimly lit corridor from the parking lot through the brewing area to reach a modest tasting room. The recent renovations incorporated the adjacent space once occupied by Hungry Howie’s pizza, which closed in 2022, enhancing accessibility and ambiance.
Visitors now enter through a welcoming front door that opens onto West 12th Street, enjoying free access to newly available restrooms and an expanded food menu. Front of House Manager and Creative Director Hayley Gardner ensures a smooth operation, while Chef Tyler Fails leads the revamped kitchen, which boasts greater capacity for culinary creativity.
Fails appreciates the diverse culinary freedom his role affords him, noting that the menu is inspired by global cuisines, many dishes thoughtfully paired with selections from the Ale Trail’s finest craft beers.
During a recent visit, Lavery Brewing showcased 16 of its own beers, including seasonal offerings such as an Oktoberfest and a Devil’s Pumpkin Ale. Guests can indulge in standout menu items like the Summer Char pizza—topped with smoked pineapple, four cheeses, chorizo sausage, and pickled onions—alongside favorites like Patagonia tacos, a fried chicken sandwich, and the Lavery Burger. The menu is set for seasonal updates, but current options are available for pre-order online.
As patrons sip on the innovative brews crafted by Head Brewer Charlie McDonough, they can also enjoy the vibrant murals and abundant natural light that fill the space. With its recent renovations and expanding offerings, Lavery Brewing Co. is poised to thrive as it enters the fall season of 2024.
