Hitchhiker Brewing Company proudly calls Mt. Lebanon, PA home, which is unbelievably fortunate, since that’s right where we live – we can literally throw a rock and hit the place. Owned by residents(and friends) Gary and Serena Olden, it’s our little local brewery, and it’s been a great addition to the neighborhood.

Most evenings, when out for a walk, we’ll notice it’s packed with smiling patrons, casually leaning on the handmade wooden counter that looks out onto the front sidewalk, and through the wide-open front window as others sit at the patio tables outside. Some nights, we’ll also take notice of families with kids relaxing at wooden picnic tables in the courtyard garden.  It’s exactly how a place like this should be. Small, laid-back, relaxed and casual, and serving some of Pittsburgh’s best craft beer. It truly feels great to have a spot like this so close.

Looking to expand their take-out offering to include “crowlers,” or on-demand cans, Gary was interested in collaborating with local artists and designers for a series of specialty labels for their core roster of beers. I was fortunate enough to contribute art for a label for one of my favorite beers from Hitchhiker (and my favorite style), Trial By Fire Farmhouse Saison. These cans are available in their pub for take-away – they fill them right there on the bar by the order.