Twenty years in business is no small feat. Manayunk Brewing Company (MBC) has been an institution on Main Street for the past two decades and is one of Philadelphia’s oldest craft breweries. MBC now employs 120 part-time and full-time employees—each committed to doling out quality craft beer and fresh food in a cozy atmosphere alongside the Schuylkill River.
Right now visitors can enjoy a special Belgian-style 20th Anniversary Ale created for the occasion and fermented with a blend of Chardonnay and Muscat grapes. As a special anniversary toast, we got the scoop on all things MBC from Manayunk Brewing Company’s partner and general manager, Mike Rose, and head brewer, Evan Fritz.
Can you tell us the history of the brewery and how it came to be?
Evan: Harry Renner IV established Manayunk Brewing Company and Restaurant in 1996, after nearly two years of hard work to bring the lagging facility back to life. The company started with only 14 employees.
Our first batch of Manayunk Brewing Company beer was tapped October 17, 1996. Since then, we have brewed more than 600 different varieties of beers and have been selling these sought-after styles all around Philadelphia and New Jersey. Our brewers continue to explore new takes on classic styles, especially when it comes to sour ales and India Pale Ales. You will no doubt see our delivery truck bringing goods to happy customers throughout the Philadelphia region!
Mr. Renner’s daughter took over the building in 2004 and runs the restaurant and brewery along with her business partner, Mike Rose. Since then, they have expanded the restaurant by installing a stone pizza oven and sushi bar, as well as a chic banquet space for weddings and meetings. MBC also offers kayak tours along the adjacent Schuylkill River during the warm months.
How did you initially get involved with brewing and Manayunk Brewing Company?
Mike: I was originally asked by Harry Renner to help with the initial rehabilitation and fit out of the old building and have been with the company ever since.
Evan: After many years of brewing award-winning home brews, I joined MBC in early 2011 as the director of sales and cellarman. In 2013, I became head brewer.
What makes the brewery so special?
Evan: We are not an orthodox brewpub. We regularly have live entertainment, we offer the best live jazz brunch in Philadelphia, we conduct kayak tours, we have have one of Philly’s best sushi bars and we bake stone-fired pizzas right on premises. With more than 18,000 square feet, we have something for everyone. Of course, being directly on the banks of the Schuylkill River doesn’t hurt.
What special events are happening this season?
Evan: As we have done for 20 years, we will be providing Thanksgiving meals to more than 1,200 local residents in need. Throughout December, we will also have Lunch with Santa followed by our annual Brewpub New Year’s Eve party. In the spring, we will hold our 19th Annual Brew Fest.
What’s your favorite MBC beer and why?
Mike: Krook’s Mill American Pale Ale. I have a soft spot for this beer, as it was one of the original beers we brewed here at MBC. The floral aromas from the American hops provide a divine nose while a touch of sweetness from the caramel malt balances everything just right.
Evan: Rise & Grind Imperial Brunch Stout. I’ve actually never been a big fan of big stouts, but after tasting our Rise & Grind, a 10.3% powerhouse brewed with local cold-brew coffee, oats and local chocolate, I was sold. It’s turned around my feelings toward this style. We even aged some of it in freshly dumped rum and bourbon barrels for a nifty spin.
Tell us about the special brews are you offering this season.
Evan: Our fall favorite Yunkin’ Pumpkin is sold out, although you may still be able to find a four-pack at your favorite bottle shop or distributor. This light pumpkin ale has just the right mix of spices and goes great with a warm bowl of pumpkin or squash soup.
Next up is Festivus, our winter spiced ale brewed with dark brown sugar, nutmeg and cardamom. This rich elixir pairs well with desserts and can even stand up to a nice piece of red meat.
What has been the key to the brewery’s success and staying power in Manayunk?
Evan: In one word, consistency. For 20 years, we have been able to hone our skills and continue to do what works while providing the outstanding beer, cocktails, food and service that our customers expect. That being said, we are not completely hard-headed and we have been able to acknowledge when changes are needed.
Can people find your beers at other locations throughout the Philadelphia area?
Evan: Our beer can be found at most taverns, bars, bottle shops, distributors and beer stores throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. You can also find us at most beer festivals and events that focus on fresh, local craft beer. Folks can click on the “FIND OUR BEER” link on our website for an updated list of where you can find our suds.
What’s on the horizon for Manayunk Brewing Company?
Evan: Due to the new Act 39 law that was passed recently, we decided to build a small wine cellar featuring local wineries as well as some well-known brands from all over the world. Customers will soon be able to take home a bottle or two of their favorite wines along with their favorite Manayunk beers.
How can people connect with you on social media?
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and visit our website.
Celebrate 20 years with Manayunk Brewing Company and visit the team at 4120 Main St. in Manayunk; phone: (215) 482-8220.
- Photos: Manayunk Brewing Company
