About Us

We represent a new generation of independent brewing by supporting dynamic, collaborative, and resilient communities.

What's in a name?

In 2017, a code violation in their Brooklyn condo left co-founders Sarah Real and Mike Dell’Aquila without heat, hot water, or a functioning stove.

Rather than abandoning her dream of pursuing a future in craft beer, Sarah started brewing on a literal hot plate, learning more about the process, writing recipes, and completing a commercial brewing training program.

Challenging as those years were, they adopted the motto “do what you can with what you have” and started planning a future that would eventually lead them to opening a brewery and taproom in Pittsfield, MA.

Our Public House

Hot Plate offers a safe third space for the whole community.

In addition to the beers we brew on premises, we also offer gluten-free options like wine, hard cider, and hard seltzers, as well as a full café program including espresso drinks, drip coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and hot apple cider.

Our taproom also features a lounge area, a wheelchair-accessible bar, boardgames, and the option to bring in your own food—either from any of our neighbors downtown or from anywhere else.

Our Company Values

CRAFT

Celebrating the art of brewing as well as honoring the artists and artisans who inspire us.

COMMUNITY

Making a real-world, tangible impact for our neighbors and mission-aligned organizations.

INTENTIONALITY

Acting as good social and environmental stewards through responsible sourcing, usage, and disposal.