| Roy Pitz Brewing Company 140 N Third St | Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717)-496-8753 www.roypitz.com |
At Roy Pitz Brewing Company, beer is Liquid Art. Liquid Art is an expression of craftsmanship where barley, hops, yeast, and local Chambersburg water act as the blank canvas. The skill and imagination of the brewmasters turns the finest raw ingredients into an artful creation.
Founded by Jesse Rotz and Ryan Richards, Roy Pitz is located in a building from the early 1900’s on North Third Street in Chambersburg, PA just two blocks from the historic square and Franklin County Courthouse. The brewery is located in the basement of the the three-story, 20,000 square-foot brick building.
The brewery includes a 20 barrel steam and solar heated brewhouse, 20 barrel fermentation and conditioning tanks, and one 10 barrel fermentation tank for specialty beers. All Roy Pitz beers are unfiltered and unpasteurized.
Located upstairs in the restored building is the 3,000 square-foot Beer Stübe. Classic brick and old pine timber are accented by brick red paneling, off-white walls, and dark green trim. The wooden bar with grey brick front offers seating for 6 in bar stools that resemble drill bits. The rustic space offers a comfortable spot to hang out.
The last time I visited Roy Pitz, free samples of beer were enjoyed at the tasting bar in the brewery in the basement. After enjoying sips of the latest offerings, I would have my growlers filled and grab a case of Ludwig’s Revenge. Needless to say, I was very excited to experience the new space.
We happened to visit on Halloween during the annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest, which offered some fun entertainment. Those in costume received $1 off all beers. Prizes for best costume in different categories were awarded later in the evening.
The current draft list is written on a chalkboard above the bar, just below the flat screen television. Beers can be purchased by the pint or in flights of 4. The current offerings included:
- Daddy Fat Sacks – 6% ABV American IPA
- Best Blonde – 4.5% ABV German Style Blonde Ale
- Old Jail Ale – 5% ABV English Style Brown Ale
- Ludwig’s Revenge – 5.25% ABV Smoked German Style Black Lager
- Lovitz Lager – 5% ABV Watermelon Golden Lager
- Schnozeberry Lager – 4.5% ABV Blueberry/Mulberry/Lemon Golden Lager
- Chambersburg Peach – 6% ABV Peach Golden Lager
- Lone Soldier Sour – 4% ABV German Style Sour Wheat Ale
- Sour Hound – 5% ABV Sour Brown Ale
- Falling Spring Lager – 4.9% ABV German Style Golden Helles Lager
- Ichabod Crane’s Midnight Ride – 7.5% ABV Belgian Style Pumpkin Ale Fermented with Caramelized Brown Sugar and Spice
- Gobbler Lager – 5.8% ABV German Style Märzen
I especially enjoyed the tart goodness of Sour Hound and the comforting maltiness of Gobbler Lager. My favorite Roy Pitz beer, however, continues to be Ludwig’s Revenge. In addition to a six pack of my favorite smoked lager, I also picked up 22 ounce bottles of Truly Honest Amber Ale and Mind Your P’s and Q’s Belgian Style Triple.
Any day now, Black Spot, a 6% ABV dark and hoppy lager, and Dark Horse Dunkel, a 5.5% ABV Dunkelweiss should also be available.
Patrons can enjoy light pub fare alongside the Liquid Art brewed on site. Appetizers include Pork Belly Sliders, Bruschetta, and Brew House Nachos. Sandwiches include the Blonde Dijon, The Jailhouse Caprese, and The Grateful Reuben. Pizza, salad, and soup are also available.
Beer can be purchased to go in glass growlers, six packs, bomber bottles, cases, and kegs. T-shirts, hats, and sweatshirts are available. Local wine and soda can be purchased as well.
Live music, trivia, and events occur throughout the week at the Beer Stübe. For the warmer months, there is an outdoor deck. Room rentals for private parties and events are also available. Free brewery tours are offered every Saturday at 5:00 PM.
If you find yourself driving through Chambersburg, or you feel like taking a road trip that ends with great beer, be sure to check out Roy Pitz Brewing Company. The beer is delicious.
