Buffalo’s craft beer scene has grown remarkably in recent years. From historic downtown buildings transformed into vibrant taprooms to laid-back neighborhood breweries in the suburbs, there’s something for every taste. Here are our favorite breweries and pubs, personally visited and recommended by JGB members.
🍺 WNY Beer Trail Pass
Looking to make the most of Buffalo’s brewery scene? The WNY Beer Trail Pass is a great way to explore and save money at the same time. With an annual pass ($35), you’ll get access to BOGO (buy one, get one free) deals and other discounts at over 80 breweries and taprooms across Western New York. Available as a traditional passbook or a mobile version for your smartphone (3-day, 7-day, or annual options available).
WNY Beer Trail Official Website
Downtown Buffalo
Big Ditch (55 E Huron St)
One of Buffalo’s most iconic craft breweries, conveniently located near the Theater District and Canalside. Great food menu to go along with their beers.bigditchbrewing.com
Resurgence (55 Chicago St)
Known for its spacious taproom and beer garden. A seasonal outpost at Canalside opens in the summer, making it easy to combine with a downtown outing.
resurgencebrewing.com
Buffalo Olde Brewery (1221 E Lovejoy St)
Housed in a beautifully restored 1890 theater building, this brewery is a tribute to Buffalo’s rich brewing history. Features a front bar, restaurant, and a large beer garden in the heart of the Lovejoy neighborhood.
thebuffalooldebrewery.com
Other Half Brewing (1 Seneca St / Seneca One Tower)
The Buffalo outpost of this popular New York-based brewery. A stylish, spacious taproom at the base of Seneca One Tower, complete with a 12-foot video wall, beer garden, and full kitchen.
otherhalfbrewing.com/location/buffalo
Fattey Beer (5 Genesee St, Buffalo — and locations across WNY)
A bottle shop and taproom with an impressive selection of craft beers from across the country. Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Outside food is welcome.
fatteybeer.com
Williamsville & Surroundings
Britesmith (5611 Main St, Williamsville / 1250 Niagara St, Buffalo)
Set in a historic building along Ellicott Creek, Britesmith is known for its excellent food and great atmosphere. Now with two locations.
britesmithbrewing.com
Moor Pat (78 E Spring St, Williamsville)
A craft beer bar in the heart of Williamsville with an ever-rotating selection of taps. A must-visit for serious beer lovers.
moorpat.com
Santora’s / 1927 Brew House (7800 Transit Rd, Williamsville)
Buffalo’s beloved pizza institution Santora’s, in business since 1927, now brews its own beer. The perfect pairing of house-brewed beer and classic Buffalo pizza.
santoras.com
Worth the Drive
New York Beer Project (6933 Transit Rd, Lockport)
A spacious brewery with a full food menu — a great destination for a day trip.
nybeerproject.com
Wayland Brewing (3740 N Buffalo St, Orchard Park)
A standout taproom with a greenhouse-inspired interior and refined cuisine. Located near Bills Stadium, this one is worth a special trip.
waylandbrewing.com
42 North (25 Pine St, East Aurora)
Nestled in the charming village of East Aurora, 42 North pairs beautifully with a visit to the historic Roycroft Campus nearby.
42northbrewing.com