Growing up in South Fayette Township in the 70s, most everyone knew about the Joy Dog Food factory in Oakdale. So, when I heard about the site’s recent transformation to brewery, I was eager to learn more. With its gleaming stainless steel tanks and friendly staff, Helicon Brewing did not disappoint!

Taking its name from Oakdale’s history – the borough was originally named Mt. Helicon – Helicon offers a nice selection of craft beers. Since it was our first visit, we decided to try a sample of each of the six offerings available that day: American Blonde Lager, American Pale Ale, American India Pale Ale Citra & Mosaic, English India Pale Ale, Amber India Pale Ale, and Oatmeal Stout.

Each selection was very good, making it difficult to pick a favorite. The Blonde Lager and Pale Ale were clean and refreshing, perfect for a warm summer day. The IPAs were crisp and unique, and the stout was full bodied and flavorful.

Not normally a stout fan, my husband’s choice that day was Helicon’s Oatmeal Stout, which he thought was possibly the best he ever had. For me, the American IPA Citra & Mosaic’s citrus notes slightly edged out the smokier finish of the English IPA.

In addition to beer, Helicon also offered a white blend wine and a red blend wine from Pittsburgh Winery, and Moscato from PK Winery in McDonald, PA.

Helicon’s taproom does not offer food (other than chips), but on Fridays and Saturdays, a different food truck is in the parking lot. The day we visited, Driftwood Oven was there making thin crust, brick-oven pizzas – it doesn’t bet much better than pizza and beer!

Located at 102 Union Street, next to the Panhandle Trail, Helicon Brewing is a great place to stop after a bike ride on the trail, or on the way home from the Mall at Robinson!