Let’s look at one of Eastern Pennsylvania’s rising stars in the craft beer scene: Alicia Roman, the founder of Bespoke Brewing. If you’ve been poking around Lancaster or the surrounding counties, you might have heard her name tossed around with the likes of well-established spots like Lancaster Brewing Co. or the innovative Hitchhiker Brewing. But Alicia isn’t just another brewer turning out pints—she’s someone who’s reshaping what it means to be a brewery owner in PA, especially as a woman in brewing and an inclusive brewery owner.
A Quick Intro: Who Is Alicia Roman?
Alicia Roman is the heart and soul behind Bespoke Brewing, a cozy but vibrant brewery nestled right here in Pennsylvania. What sets her apart isn’t just her knack for brewing solid, flavorful beers—it’s her commitment to making Bespoke a real third space for the community. You know what I mean by “third https://breweriesinpa.com/crafting-community-how-pennsylvania-breweries-are-fostering-local-connections/ space,” right? It’s not home, it’s not work, but somewhere you feel comfortable, welcome, and can build connections.
She started Bespoke Brewing because she wanted more than just another taproom that felt like a corporate showroom or a loud bar. “I was craving a place where people could come as they are,” she told me during a recent chat over a flight of her latest IPAs and saisons. “A place where everyone feels included, whether you’re a beer nerd, a family with kids, or someone who just wants a relaxing spot after work.”
Her Brewing Journey: From Passion to Profession
Alicia’s path to founding Bespoke Brewing wasn’t a straight line. She didn’t grow up in a brewery family or jump right into hops and malt. Instead, she fell in love with craft beer while exploring local breweries around Eastern PA, including spots like Hitchhiker Brewing, which she credits for inspiring her to dig deeper into what makes a brewery truly welcoming.
Her early years were spent learning the ropes—homebrewing, studying different styles, and working side gigs in the industry. But what really drove her was the idea of inclusivity. She saw too many places where women brewers were the exception, and too many taprooms where you felt out of place unless you fit a certain crowd.
So, when she finally launched Bespoke Brewing, she made it a point to build a brewery that reflected her values: diversity, community, and craftsmanship without pretension.
Bespoke Brewing: More Than Just a Brewery
If you haven’t visited Bespoke Brewing yet, make it a plan for your next weekend. You’ll find it’s a spot that goes beyond just serving great beer. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Inclusive Atmosphere: Alicia designed the space to be welcoming to everyone, from longtime beer lovers to families with kids (yes, they’re family-friendly!) and even folks who prefer non-alcoholic options. They offer house-made sodas and mocktails, so no one feels left out. Community Events: Bespoke hosts everything from trivia nights to local artist showcases. Alicia wants the brewery to be a hub where local culture thrives. Local Collaborations: You’ll often find beers brewed in partnership with nearby businesses. For instance, she recently teamed up with a local bakery to create a stout infused with their signature chocolate. Transparency and Education: Alicia loves to talk about the brewing process, the ingredients, and the stories behind each beer. She’s often behind the bar, chatting with visitors and sharing her passion in plain English—not beer snob jargon.
What You’ll Taste at Bespoke Brewing
True to the name, Bespoke Brewing crafts beers that feel personalized and thoughtful. Expect solid, balanced brews that don’t chase every trend but instead celebrate the craft. Here’s a quick rundown based on my last visit:
Custom IPA: Hoppy but not overpowering, with citrus notes that remind me of a sunny day at the Susquehanna River. Seasonal Saisons: Light, refreshing, with a hint of spice—perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Rich Stouts: Deep, chocolatey, and smooth, sometimes with a twist from local ingredients like coffee or maple syrup. Non-alcoholic options: Their house-made ginger soda is a must-try if you’re the DD or just taking a break.Women in Brewing PA: Alicia’s Role in Shaping the Scene
Women brewers are still a minority in the craft beer world, but Alicia is part of a growing wave of women in brewing PA who are changing the game. Here's a story that illustrates this perfectly: learned this lesson the hard way.. She’s vocal about the challenges she’s faced and the importance of mentorship and support.
For example, she’s involved with local groups that celebrate women in the industry, helping younger women get their footing. She also hosts meet-ups and panels at Bespoke to foster connection and share knowledge.
Her visibility as a female brewery owner in a traditionally male-dominated field is inspiring a lot of folks around here. But she’s quick to point out it’s not about being “the woman brewer” but about being a brewer who happens to be a woman—and that brewing great beer and creating community spaces is what matters most.
Why Bespoke Brewing Is a Must-Visit for PA Locals
If you’re reading this and thinking about your next weekend plans, consider making a trip to Bespoke Brewing. Here’s why it ticks the boxes for so many of us:
- Authentic Community Vibes: No corporate polish here—just real people, good conversations, and a place to unwind. Family-Friendly Options: Bring the kids or the non-drinker crew—everyone gets a seat at the table. Support Local: Every dollar spent here goes to supporting a local business with genuine roots in PA. A Welcoming Space: Whether you’re flying solo, meeting friends, or on a date, you’ll feel at home.
How to Find Bespoke Brewing
Bespoke Brewing is located just a short drive from Lancaster, making it easy to combine with a day exploring local shops or grabbing a bite at favorite spots like Lancaster Brewing Co. The taproom hours and event schedule are posted on their social channels, and trust me, they’re well worth checking out.
Final Thoughts: Alicia Roman Is Brewing More Than Beer
You know what's funny? at the end of the day, alicia roman isn’t just a bespoke brewing founder; she’s a community builder. She’s creating a space where people feel connected, included, and inspired—something we all need a little more of these days.
If you want to support a local brewery that values people over profit and craft over hype, Bespoke Brewing is your spot. And if you’re lucky, you might catch Alicia behind the bar, pouring a flight and swapping stories like an old friend.
So next weekend, skip the usual and swing by Bespoke Brewing. Bring your curiosity, your crew, and maybe your camera (those tap handles are pretty cool). You’ll leave with a good beer in your belly and a little more connected to the heart of Pennsylvania’s craft beer community.. Pretty simple.
