Step into the historic heart of Williamsport and uncover the inviting atmosphere of John Ryan Brewery. Located at 151 E. Third St., this brewery, established in 2021, is the brainchild of chef-owners and partners John and Andrea Roskowski, along with Matthew and Yvonne DiRocco. John Ryan Brewery offers a unique experience, focusing on small-batch brews and a commitment to quality that makes every pint memorable.
John Ryan Brewery team members accept the Emerging Business Award from the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the brewery's contribution to the Williamsport community and its excellence as a new business.
Crafting European-Style Beers with Local Flair at John Ryan Brewery
At John Ryan Brewery, the emphasis is on quality over quantity. Brewmaster William Ernst-Wingfield expertly manages a five-barrel system, ensuring meticulous attention to detail in every batch. This small-batch approach allows for a rotating selection of six to eight beers on tap, featuring seasonal blends that keep the offerings fresh and exciting throughout the year. Andrea Roskowski highlights their dedication to “traditional European public houses,” resulting in beers that are “clean, crisp, and easy to drink.” From refreshing pilsners perfect for warmer days to robust dark beers suited for winter, John Ryan Brewery caters to diverse palates.
A distinctive feature of John Ryan Brewery is their incorporation of local produce into their brewing process. Their commitment to community extends to their beer recipes, with favorites like Pear Beer using locally sourced pears. Perhaps most notably, their Dandelion Ale pays homage to Williamsport’s heritage, reviving a local tradition of brewing with dandelion greens, reminiscent of dandelion wine making from generations past. Complementing the exceptional beer selection is “an all-scratch kitchen that focuses on seasonal ingredients,” as Andrea describes, offering a menu inspired by global culinary adventures.
A Unique Ambiance within a Historic Williamsport Landmark
More than just a brewery, John Ryan Brewery is an experience. Housed within the beautifully restored historic John R. T. Ryan house, built in 1870, the location itself adds to the brewery’s charm. The interior boasts original exposed brick walls, elaborate trim and molding, and French-style lighting, creating a warm and inviting tavern atmosphere. Andrea explains the care taken in preserving the building’s history: “The majority of the details in the home are original and any moldings that were damaged or missing were restored.” New additions, like the French Second Empire style chandeliers in the main bar, are thoughtfully chosen to complement the building’s original architectural style. The grand staircase, featuring hand-blown Morano glass and vintage chandeliers, further enhances the brewery’s sophisticated yet welcoming feel. Visiting John Ryan Brewery elevates a casual outing into a memorable occasion.
Community Focused and Award-Winning Brews
John Ryan Brewery is deeply rooted in the Williamsport community. They aim to be a place “for people that want to be part of their community and unwind after a day with a pitcher of beer, a meal and good conversation,” according to Andrea. This commitment to community is evident in their practices. They actively support local farmers by sourcing ingredients like pears and donate spent grain to farms for livestock feed. Collaborations with other breweries, such as their recent partnership with Clarion River Brewing Company on the Continuing Education Saison, further demonstrate their collaborative spirit. John Ryan Brewery also actively participates in local events, including the K’s for Cancer event over St. Patrick’s Day weekend, where they offered their Pilsner and Dandelion Ale. This dedication to both quality and community was recognized when John Ryan Brewery received the Emerging Business Award from the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce.
The Brewmaster’s Perspective on the John Ryan Brewery Experience
Brewmaster William Ernst-Wingfield encapsulates the essence of John Ryan Brewery by highlighting the customer experience. He notes the initial hesitations some customers might have towards “traditional European style beers,” but finds immense satisfaction in witnessing their positive reactions after the first sip. “Seeing the looks of enjoyment as they order a glass and/or a pitcher to share” is what makes his work rewarding. For William, and for John Ryan Brewery as a whole, it’s about providing a genuine beer experience: “Sometimes it’s nice to be able to just sit and enjoy a beer that tastes like a beer, that still drinks well by itself or with food.”
If you’re seeking an authentic and welcoming brewery experience in Williamsport, look no further than John Ryan Brewery. For updates on their beer selection, food specials, and upcoming events, visit the John Ryan Brewery Facebook page or their website at johnryanbrewery.com.
