Pittsburgh PA News - The Beer Thrillers

Missile Site Turned Taproom: Grist House Command Launches in Collier Township

B. Kline — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 22:02:26 +0000

Missile Site Turned Taproom: Grist House Command Launches in Collier Township

You ever walk into a room that’s heavy with history? That’s the vibe when you step into Grist House Command, the newest spot from Grist House Craft Brewery, tucked inside what was once a Cold War-era Nike missile command center in Collier Township. This isn’t your typical craft beer launch—it’s a full-on story, a place where aviation relics meet hazy IPAs and dog-friendly patios.

Grist House Command

From Military Mission to Malt Mission

Originally built in 1957 and activated in 1960 to guard Pittsburgh from aerial threats, the massive bunker—known as PI-62—sat quietly on one of the highest points in Allegheny County for decades. Now, it’s being reborn, with the heart of a brewery beating where a radar once blinked.

Grand Opening: September 6–7

Clear your calendar: Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., marks the grand opening, followed by a Sunday session from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Expect to walk into something that’s equal parts blast from the past and cutting-edge craft beer haven.

What’s On Tap (Literally and Figuratively)

A 30-barrel brewhouse right on-site—hello, more core favorites and adventurous new brews
Four bars, each pouring from 24 taps—yes, that’s 96 taps total waiting to be conquered
Indoor seating for around 140, plus three dog-friendly decks to accommodate up to 300 patio-loving patrons
A full kitchen dishing out family recipe–inspired fare that pairs just as well with conversation as it does with the suds
History on display—glimpse photos, signage, and memorabilia from the bunker’s military days, where former service members are encouraged to drop by and reminisce over a pint

Why This Spot Matters

Co-owner Brian Eaton, along with partner Kyle Mientkiewicz, took over the property back in 2018, and today their vision is turning one of Pittsburgh’s hidden high-ground pieces into a landmark—beverage-style. While Grist House’s Millvale location started life in a repurposed slaughterhouse back in 2014, this new command-post-style taproom is something else—a bold next chapter with 30,000-barrel potential per year, compared to the current 2,500.

This place isn’t just beer-adjacent history—it’s built on it. And in a beer market that’s pretty crowded, there’s no better way to stand out than by honoring the past while embracing the present.

Thanks for reading, friends! Can’t wait to see you there—dog in tow, glass in hand, ready to cheers history.

See Our Other Articles on Grist House Brewing

Grist House Shipping Statewide in Pennsylvania
Grist House Brewery Will Be Taking Over the Taproom at Freedom Farms Farmers Market
Grist House Beer Market Launching at Sprankle’s Neighborhood Market in Saxonburg
Missile Site Turned Taproom: Grist House Command Launches in Collier Township

For More Information on Grist House Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Grist House Craft Brewery is a micro brewery from Pittsburgh, PA. They have 284 unique beers and over 255,000 ratings, with a global average rating of 4.00 (as of 8.19.25). Their Untappd description reads: “Grist House Craft Brewery is located in the heart of Millvale, PA just minutes north of downtown Pittsburgh. Family owned and operated, we strive to produce high quality beer that is delicious and easy drinking. Plenty of outdoor seating, and a brand new Taproom, this family and dog friendly space is ideal for day drinkers and happy hour go-ers, or for those who just want to enjoy a great atmosphere with their pint. Cheers! ”

You can find them at these social media outlets:

Grist House Craft Brewery – Official Website
Grist House Craft Brewery – Facebook
Grist House Craft Brewery – Instagram
Grist House Craft Brewery – Twitter
Grist House Craft Brewery – Untappd

Brewery News

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The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of May 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

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Voodoo Brewing Announces Their North Shore Location is Closing

B. Kline — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 20:25:28 +0000

Voodoo Brewing Announces Their North Shore Location is Closing

Voodoo Brewing announced via social media that their Pittsburgh, North Shore location is closing. Tuesday – June 3rd, 2025 will be its last day where you’ll be able to have a chance to go in and grab a beer. They opened August 27th, 2022. (Voodoo Brewing to Open Pittsburgh North Shore Location on August 27th) The Pittsburgh Pub is located on the North Shore at 337 N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (in between PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium; formerly Heinz Field).

Several Voodoo Brewpubs closed in 2024 and even already in 2025.

Voodoo North Shore Brewpub Announces Closing

Voodoo Pittsburgh Pub in North Shore Announces Closing

Yesterday via social media at 12:48 PM EST they announced that their brewpub on the North Shore (near the PNC Park and Southern Tier’s location) will be closing, with the “last day to grab a beer with us here” is Tuesday (June 3rd, 2025).

Their post reads:

What a blast it’s been serving the North Shore.

After almost three years, we’ve made the call to close the pub so we can double down on what we do best: brewing world-class beer and making it more available throughout Pennsylvania. This shift will allow us to improve our production, expand distribution, and support our growing network of franchise locations across the country.

We’re entering the final days of our North Shore pub and Tuesday will be the last chance to grab a beer with us at this location. We will be open tomorrow, Monday June 2nd, at 2 PM serving up $5 draft beers.

Thank you to everyone who stopped in and supported us on the North Shore and to our staff who made it happen every single day. If you’ve been meaning to visit, now’s the time.

Come raise a glass and help us close things out right. It’s not good bye, it’s I’ll see you later.

– Voodoo Brewing Co. – Pittsburgh Pub (Facebook Post)

The comment section is certainly interesting, with a mixed reaction of “oh no” to “wow, only two days notice for employees” to “what a shocker, another Voodoo Brewpub closing”. One commenter in particular saying:

woohoo 30 people no longer have jobs and they gave everyone a 2 day notice during the busiest time of the year. another amazing business choice. ill never forget when they decided to lay off several people on christmas eve and when the owner TRIED to make us take down our pride flags. i hope this brand goes to shit as its clearly on its way there.

V’s down

With a follow up reply to that comment:

I was hoping someone would call them out on this one! I don’t understand why companies think that’s ok! I’m sure most of the hiring for summer has already taken place so that leaves these employees in an even tougher spot!

The comments followed up with rumors of what might be going into the location – possibly a “Shorty’s”.

They later posted this, at 6:09 PM via Facebook:

Voodoo Brewing Co. Pittsburgh Pub Talking About Monday’s Hours

We will be open tomorrow, Monday, June 2nd beginning at 2pm for $5 Draft beers. Come see the gang one last time on the North Shore before we close our doors Tuesday Night.

– Voodoo Brewing Co. Pittsburgh Pub (Facebook Post)

Just as before, mixed comments were left. Voodoo Brewing hasn’t responded to any as of my time of writing this (4:00 PM June 2nd).

One comment saying:

I do not understand why anyone would want to waste their time and money for a company that has zero respect for their employees.

For your business to give your employees no notice that they are losing their jobs is absolutely absurd and speaks volumes.

You guys fucking suck, this is a blessing in disguise for your whole crew. They deserve better

Voodoo Brewpubs Closing

Seems to be a rash of Voodoo Brewing locations closing not just in 2024, but continuing into 2025. They are a franchise based brewery, so there is numerous locations. Some as far away (from Pennsylvania) as Reno Nevada (which has closed), which you can read about here: Voodoo Brewing Closes Reno Location.

Voodoo Brewpubs That Closed in 2024 or 2025

As of June 2025, at least six Voodoo Brewing Company locations have closed during 2024 and 2025:

Fort Worth, Texas: Opened in July 2024 and closed by late October 2024 due to insufficient revenue to cover operational costs.
Fort Myers, Florida: Opened in April 2024 and closed on March 30, 2025, after facing challenges such as bridge and road closures and two hurricanes.
Meadville, Pennsylvania (Arch Street location): Closed on January 2, 2025, after over a decade of operation. The company transitioned operations to “The Compound,” their production facility.
Grand Prairie, Texas: Originally a Voodoo Brewing franchise, it rebranded as Rios Brewing Co. in early 2025, ending its affiliation with Voodoo Brewing Company.
Reno, Nevada: Opened in 2023 and closed May 2024.
North Shore, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Opened in 2022 and closing now (June 2025).

Additionally, the Murrells Inlet, South Carolina location announced a closure in December 2024 but remained open due to community support.

Voodoo Brewing Company Closures (2024–2025)

As of June 2025, at least six Voodoo Brewing Company locations have permanently closed during 2024 and 2025:

Fort Worth, Texas
- Opened: July 2024
- Closed: Late October 2024
- Reason: Inability to generate enough revenue to cover operational costs.
- Source
Fort Myers, Florida
- Opened: April 2024
- Closed: March 30, 2025
- Reason: Economic impact from bridge/road closures and hurricanes.
- Source
Meadville, Pennsylvania (Arch Street location)
- Closed: January 2, 2025
- Reason: Operational shift to “The Compound” production facility.
Grand Prairie, Texas
- Rebranded: Early 2025
- Note: No longer affiliated with Voodoo Brewing; now operates as Rios Brewing Co.
- Source
Reno, Nevada
- Opened: January 28, 2023
- Closed: Around May 2, 2024
- Reason: Closed without public announcement; status listed as permanently closed.
- Source
North Shore, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Opened: August 27th, 2022
- Closed: June 3, 2025
- Reason: Announced on Facebook on June 1st, 2025.

News and Updates

When we get more information, we’ll be sure to update this, and possibly make further articles with more news and updates about Voodoo Brewing, this location, and reasons for the closing.

For More Information on Voodoo Brewing

We have the following articles you can read:

Voodoo Brewery to Close in Reno, NV
Voodoo Brewery Closing Arch Street Location in Meadville, PA
Voodoo Brewing Company Names New CFO and Employee Owner, Reinforcing Its Dedication to a Diverse and Dynamic Community
Voodoo Opening Brewpub in North Shore of Pittsburgh on August 27th
Voodoo Brewing Seven Fields Coming Spring 2024
Voodoo Brewing to Open in Reno, NV
Voodoo Brewing Co. Brings Craft Beer Magic to Reno
Voodoo Brewery Lancaster is Closing

For more information on Voodoo Brewing, the following comes via Untappd.

They are considered a “micro brewery” by Untappd, and listed as located at Meadville, PA. They have 691 unique beers and over 571,000 (just thirty – four shy of 572,000) ratings, with a global average rating of 3.94. As I click and open up their Untappd bio, I am going to assume it was hacked (or possibly an employee about to lose their job or just lost their job that still has access to the Untappd login ability) because this is what it says:

This is Voodoo Brewery, based in Meadville, PA, that opened a location in Valrico, FL. They have horrible beer that they brew themselves and skunk beer from other breweries; the service is atrocious and the vibes are mid at best despite their budget. Do not go to this expansionist corporate hell hole

Before clicking the “read more” you are just shown: “This is Voodoo Brewery, based in Meadville, PA, that opened a location in Valrico, F”

(I am quite curious when this update and change to their Untappd bio was made.)

You can visit them on their social media accounts at:

Voodoo Brewing – Official Website
Voodoo Brewing – Facebook
Voodoo Brewing – Instagram
Voodoo Brewing – Untappd

Brewery News

Interested in finding out about many other brewery openings, new locations, closings, movings, auctions, and in general brewery news? You can check out our links below:

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

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Sly Fox Brewing Ordered to Pay Nearly $200K for Withholding Tips

B. Kline — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:10:21 +0000

Sly Fox Brewing Ordered to Pay Nearly $200K for Withholding Tips: What It Means for the Craft Beer Industry

In a story that’s sending ripples through Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene, Sly Fox Brewing, a well-known name with a strong local following, has been ordered to pay nearly $200,000 in back wages, damages, and penalties. This decision comes after an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) found the brewery in violation of federal wage laws.

Let’s dive into what happened, why it matters, and what it says about supporting fair practices in the restaurant and craft beer industry.

Sly Fox Brewing Company logo

What Happened at Sly Fox Brewing?

The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division discovered that two Sly Fox locations in Pittsburgh—the Taphouse at Point State Park (300 Liberty Avenue) and the Highline Brewery (46 S. 4th Street) — violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Specifically, they allowed managers to participate in the tip pool, a clear no-go under federal law.

For restaurant and brewery workers who rely on tips as a vital part of their income, this is more than just a policy violation—it’s a significant financial hit.

The Breakdown of Penalties:

Back wages recovered: $84,710
Liquidated damages: $84,710
Civil penalties: $15,435

In total, the brewery was required to pay $184,855 to rectify the situation.

Why This Matters

Craft beer is a community-driven industry, built on passion, creativity, and collaboration. But like any business, it must also adhere to fair labor practices.

“Restaurant workers often make low wages and depend on every dollar earned, including tips, to help support themselves and their families,” said John DuMont, the Wage and Hour District Director in Pittsburgh. His sentiment highlights the importance of respecting the hardworking people behind the scenes.

Whether you’re pouring pints, running food, or cleaning up after hours, every role contributes to the experience we beer lovers enjoy. Ensuring fair wages and proper treatment is essential for a thriving industry.

What Does This Mean for the Craft Beer Community?

For craft beer enthusiasts and brewery owners alike, this story serves as a wake-up call. It’s a reminder to support breweries that not only produce great beer but also take care of their employees.

For Brewery Owners:

If you’re running or thinking about starting a brewery, this is a clear signal to get your labor practices in order. The craft beer community values transparency and fairness, and maintaining these values is crucial to building a loyal customer base.

For Beer Lovers:

Next time you visit a brewery or restaurant, consider the people making it all happen. From your bartender to the back-of-house staff, everyone deserves fair pay for their hard work.

About Sly Fox

Sly Fox Brewing Company is a Pennsylvania craft beer staple, founded in 1995, and known for its bold flavors and innovative approach to brewing. With locations spanning the state, including the renowned Taphouse at Point State Park and the Highline Brewery in Pittsburgh, Sly Fox has built a reputation for quality beers that cater to a wide range of palates. From their flagship Pikeland Pils to seasonal favorites like Christmas Ale, the brewery offers a mix of traditional styles and creative brews that keep customers coming back. Over the years, Sly Fox has become a go-to destination for beer lovers and a key player in the local craft beer community.

Beyond its beers, Sly Fox is deeply rooted in Pennsylvania’s culture. Their involvement in events like the Sly Fox Bock Fest & Goat Race showcases their passion for creating experiences that bring people together. This blend of creativity and community engagement has helped the brewery maintain its popularity, even in a competitive craft beer landscape. However, recent labor-related controversies remind us that every business has room for growth and improvement. As Sly Fox continues to evolve, many hope it will prioritize not only great beer but also the well-being of its dedicated staff.

A Message to Other Employers

The Department of Labor isn’t taking violations lightly. “This legal action recovers the workers’ hard-earned wages and sends a message to other restaurant employers that violations come at a cost,” said Samantha N. Thomas, the Philadelphia Regional Solicitor of Labor.

The case against Sly Fox Brewing reinforces the importance of following labor laws and ensuring that tipped workers receive their full earnings.

Wrapping Up

While Sly Fox Brewing is known for its craft beer, this situation casts a shadow over the brand’s reputation. It’s a reminder that success in the craft beer world isn’t just about the product; it’s about the people.

As craft beer fans, we can use this moment to celebrate and support breweries that prioritize fairness and community. Let’s raise a glass to good beer—and to doing the right thing.

Have thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments below or share your favorite employee-focused breweries.

For More Information on Sly Fox Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Sly Fox Brewing Company is a regional brewery from Pottstown, PA. They have 514 unique beers and over 484,000 ratings with a global average rating of 3.56 (as of 11.27.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Sly Fox Brewing Company is headquartered in Pottstown, Pennsylvania with a 50-hectoliter production brewery and tasting room at 331 Circle of Progress. The Pottstown brewery location opened in January 2012 and Sly Fox beers are currently available in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey. Sly Fox is considered to be one of the most well-respected craft brewers in the Mid-Atlantic region. The company was founded in December 1995 by the Giannopoulos family when Peter Giannopoulos opened the Sly Fox Brewhouse & Eatery in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Sly Fox now has six pub locations: Phoenixville, Pottstown, Malvern, Wyomissing, and two pubs in Pittsburgh.”

You can follow them at these social media platforms:

Sly Fox Brewing – Official Website
Sly Fox Brewing – Facebook
Sly Fox Brewing – Instagram
Sly Fox Brewing – Twitter
Sly Fox Brewing – Untappd

Brewery News

Interested in finding out about many other brewery openings, new locations, closings, movings, and in general brewery news? You can check out our links below:

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.