The Story
Matt Gouwens founded Hop Farm Brewing in 2016 in Lawrenceville, bringing a West Coast-inspired brewing approach to Pittsburgh's East End. The brewery is known for clean, hop-forward ales, well-made lagers, and a taproom that has become a Lawrenceville gathering spot.
The name reflects the brewery's philosophy: a deep respect for hops and the agricultural roots of brewing. Hop Farm's beers tend to be more focused and restrained than the hazy, fruited styles that dominate the craft market, which has earned them a loyal audience among drinkers who value balance and drinkability.
The brewery's Lawrenceville taproom features an outdoor space that fills up quickly on warm evenings, and their canned offerings have become fixtures at bottle shops across the region.
What Makes It Pittsburgh
Hop Farm fills an important niche in Pittsburgh's brewery scene: clean, classic craft beer made with skill and without gimmicks. While the city's beer scene trends toward the experimental, Hop Farm proves there is always a market for doing traditional styles exceptionally well.
Gouwens's decision to root the brewery in Lawrenceville has contributed to the neighborhood's identity as Pittsburgh's premier beer destination.