The Story
Kyle Matthews founded Iron City Brewing in 2014 to pay homage to Pittsburgh's brewing heritage while creating contemporary craft beers that reflect the region's character. The name honors the city's storied industrial past—the iron that built America, the foundries that powered the nation, the hands-on craftsmanship that defined Pittsburgh.
The brewery operates a 15-barrel system in a Lawrenceville warehouse, with an on-site taproom that has become a neighborhood gathering place. Kyle specializes in traditional European styles—pilsners, lagers, wheats—alongside American IPAs and experimental batches. Each beer is designed to be drinkable and approachable rather than extreme. The core lineup includes Iron Forge Pilsner, Riverbend Amber, and Steel City Stout, each balanced for flavor and character. The taproom hosts trivia nights, live music, and serves as a meeting point for the local beer community.
Iron City Brewing has won awards at regional beer competitions and has expanded distribution to select bars and restaurants across Pittsburgh. The brewery distributes kegs across Western Pennsylvania and sells growlers and cans to-go from the taproom.
What Makes It Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh's brewing history runs deep—the city had thriving breweries in the 1800s and early 1900s. Iron City Brewing connects that legacy to contemporary craft beer culture. Kyle's approach respects tradition while building something new, much like Pittsburgh's ongoing transformation.
The brewery actively participates in Pittsburgh's emerging craft beverage scene and works to support local food and agriculture partnerships.