Fat Head's Brewery

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Portland July 2017 49 (Fat Head's Brewery)

Fat Head's Brewery is a craft brewery and restaurant chain based in North Olmsted, Ohio, United States. It was founded in 1992 by Glenn Benigni in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as a Pittsburgh-style head shop and deli, but it evolved significantly over the years. The transition into a brewery began when Fat Head's partnered with brewer Matt Cole in 2009 to open a brewpub in North Olmsted, marking the beginning of its venture into the craft beer industry. This expansion was a pivotal moment, transforming Fat Head's from a local deli into a nationally recognized craft beer brand.

History

The origins of Fat Head's trace back to its establishment in Pittsburgh, where it initially gained popularity as a deli. The brand's foray into brewing began with the opening of its North Olmsted location, which quickly became known for its wide selection of high-quality, handcrafted beers. Under the guidance of Matt Cole, Fat Head's Brewery began to earn accolades in the craft beer community, including numerous awards at prestigious competitions such as the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup.

Following the success of the North Olmsted brewpub, Fat Head's expanded its operations by opening additional locations and a production facility. The brewery's portfolio of beers includes a variety of styles, with a particular emphasis on India Pale Ales (IPAs), such as the Head Hunter IPA, which has become one of its flagship beers.

Beers

Fat Head's Brewery offers a diverse range of beers, with a focus on hop-forward styles. Some of its most popular and award-winning beers include:

• Head Hunter IPA: An aggressively hopped, West Coast-style IPA with a strong hop aroma and bitterness.
• Bumble Berry Honey Blueberry Ale: A fruit beer brewed with fresh blueberries and honey, offering a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• Goggle Fogger Hefeweizen: A traditional German-style wheat beer with notes of banana and clove.

The brewery also produces seasonal and limited-release beers, showcasing the creativity and skill of its brewing team.

Locations

Fat Head's Brewery has expanded beyond its original North Olmsted brewpub to include a larger production brewery and taproom in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, as well as additional restaurant locations. Each site offers a selection of Fat Head's beers, along with a menu of hearty, beer-friendly fare.

Awards and Recognition

Fat Head's Brewery has garnered significant recognition within the craft beer industry, winning numerous awards at both national and international beer competitions. These accolades have helped to solidify its reputation as a producer of high-quality, innovative craft beers.

Community and Environmental Initiatives

Fat Head's Brewery is committed to community involvement and environmental sustainability. It engages in various initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint, such as recycling and energy conservation, and supports local charities and events.

Conclusion

Fat Head's Brewery has grown from a small deli in Pittsburgh to a prominent player in the craft beer industry, known for its wide range of high-quality beers and commitment to community and sustainability. With its combination of award-winning brews and a strong local presence, Fat Head's continues to make a significant impact on the craft beer scene.