I’ve loved walking around Glenside since I first moved to the area back in 2002 and discovered Elcy’s Coffee Shop at the train station. Now with GlensideLocal, we’ll be stopping in and meet up with the people that give us all these great stores, restaurants, and shops that make Glenside such an attractive place to live.

Last week, I counted three brewpubs either operating or opening soon in Glenside. Turns out a comment left by a reader lead me to number four, Bill’s Best at the corner of Keswick and Paxson near the railroad bridge.

Today, I stopped in to check on the progress of Bill’s Best, which if all goes according to plan, will open in March. So says Finn, its brewer, who also says that a small menu of pork sandwiches and other light fare is planned. Sometimes, the simpler the operation, the better.

Why the firetruck in the photo? Not to worry. The Glenside Fire Company rushed to the scene after the heat from a test brew tripped the alarm. No smoke, no fire, just the smell of fermentation.

While the interior build-out continues, the dining area has the bar and seating is in place. Future patrons should find a cozy, unpretentious neighborhood hangout when the doors finally open.

What does Finn think about Glenside becoming a hotspot for freshly brewed ales? “We’re looking to market ourselves not only to the locals, but we can see Glenside becoming a destination for people who like to travel around and try out new breweries.”

Indeed, the brewery renaissance has helped to revive many locales and neighborhoods. Philadelphia now enjoys a wide-spread reputation as a great beer town — again! In places like Burlington, Vermont, the thirsty traveler can cover five breweries within a single square quarter mile.