After months of renovation, Genova’s Italian Restaurant & Brewery is finally re-opening in West York. However, a fresh new look isn’t the only excitement coming from this 42-year-old restaurant. As a part of the makeover Genova’s now features its very own craft brewery, and has officially re-opened its doors at 2530 West Market Street.
The owners were able to utilize the time (roughly 5 months) with the pandemic restrictions to build out the brewery portion and renovate the restaurant. Jennifer and Anthony Grippi took over Genova’s from Anthony’s parents, Vita and Frank. In late 2020, the two partnered with Jesse De Salvo, former co-owner of Crystal Ball Brewing Co., and longtime friend, to help with the brewery build out. Crystal Ball closed in January of last year before the pandemic, as you may remember.
“This is a story about a family tradition, that has involved into something we really like with beer and pa libations. With the hopes of this community and maybe someday beyond, enjoying what we built.” – Jesse De Salvo, Partner at Genova’s Italian Restaurant & Brewery.
The newly renovated space, features a 10 seat bar, 7 taps, an updated dining room, and a stage area for live entertainment. Genova’s will also feature craft cocktails and wine and will be all Pennsylvania sourced.
We spoke with Jesse De Salvo, to get more information about the space.
BIPA: What styles of beers will you focus on?
Jesse: We started with brewing a kolsch, blonde, sessions IPA, hazy IPA, an oatmeal stout, orange creamsicle, and a chocolate cherry stout. We will make some seasonals, and have some flagships. With the size of our system, we can really make a lot of different beers quickly.
BIPA: What is the brewery system size?
Jesse: We are a nano-brewery, and have a 1 bbl Spike brewing system with 2 bbl fermenters. Like I mentioned, the idea is to play around with it and produce a lot of variety.
BIPA: Will you release crowlers/cans there as well?
Jesse: We have growlers available now, and will look into canning/crowlers once things begin to return to normal here in PA.
BIPA: What else our readers should know about the Genovas Brewery?
Jesse: We have 4 beers on tap now, and will be expanding that number to 7. Now with the beer, and PA craft liquor/wine, and entertainment, the experience at Genova’s has been enhanced. We will feature live entertainment, trivia, karaoke, comedy, and live music.
To keep up with Genova’s, make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram. We are looking forward to visiting them, and trying their beers!
