Over the years, Pearl Street Grill & Brewery has expanded dramatically, opening all four floors and even the basement level to create a sprawling complex. Boasting an impressive nine bars and countless tap handles, the brewpub prides itself on serving exclusively house-made craft beers. These beers are brewed and stored on-site, directly in the basement, ensuring freshness and a unique Buffalo flavor.
The building itself at 76 Pearl Street carries a rich history, predating the brewpub by over a century. Originally constructed in 1870, the building was first owned by Mrs. George Palmer, a local dressmaker. For nearly fifty years, it served as a dressmaking business under Palmer and later H.O. Putnam, who took over in 1891. In 1919, the building’s purpose shifted when the R.C. Neal Co., a hardware store, moved in. R.C. Neal Co. remained a fixture for sixty years, until 1982, embedding itself in the local community’s memory.
Interestingly, even during its hardware store era, the building hosted a restaurant. Mac Garry’s restaurant operated in the basement from 1927 to 1963. The changing street grade due to expressway construction in 1963 led to Mac Garry’s closure as its windows became submerged below ground level. It wasn’t until 1983 that another restaurant, Garcia’s Irish Pub, opened, occupying the space until 1996. This period of Garcia’s Irish Pub paved the way for the arrival of Pearl Street Grill & Brewery in 1997, ushering in a new chapter for the historic building.
Pearl Street Grill & Brewery is not only known for its craft beer and historical location but also for its distinctive architecture. The multilevel, New Orleans-style wrap-around patios, adorned with copper roofs and hundreds of hanging flower baskets, are a prominent feature visible from the I-190. These patios offer stunning views of Lake Erie sunsets, the Buffalo cityscape, and the waterfront, enhancing the dining experience. Located at 76 Pearl Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, Pearl Street Grill & Brewery remains a must-visit destination, blending history, craft beer, and scenic views in the heart of downtown Buffalo.
