We love walking the walkable communities, so GlensideLocal will take a stroll and present our readers with the people that give us all these great stores, restaurants, and other small businesses that make Glenside and Jenkintown such attractive places to live, work, and visit.

Until recently, Pennsylvania couldn’t seem to throw up enough roadblocks between you and your favorite beer. For far too long, six-packs were only offered in bars and in some delis, usually at an inflated price. Distributorships might offer a wider variety of beers, but only by the case. Either way, Pennsylvania residents either paid too much or faced a too-limited selection. Describing this situation to people from other states invoked instant pity.

This has finally begun to change, and when Wawa announced it would start selling six-packs at a few of its stores, one was tempted to party like it was 1979.

Meanwhile, our local corner deli has not only adapted to, but embraced the craft-beer trend. In business since 1982, Giuliano’s Deli on Mt. Carmel has long offered a beer to go with your hoagie, but about five years ago, it began to offer a broader selection of ales from around the region and beyond. Even better, the Giuliano’s installed taps to fill growlers.

When I visit, I usually find Jeff behind the counter. He’s a hard-working guy who definitely knows his beers, but he’s only one of a team of people there who make you glad to be a part of this neighborhood. I’ve had many informative conversations with him about what’s out there and what’s good.

Besides the beer, the lively little corner shop also makes excellent sandwiches and hoagies, panini’s, and offers one of the better tomato pies around from Corropolese Bakery in Norristown.

Find Giuliano’s at 2202 Mt Carmel Ave, Glenside, Phone: (215) 572-1447.