Welcome to our “Meet The Brewer” series! Where we interview brewers in Pennsylvania, from breweries small to large. Let us know if you know anyone who should be featured, email us at [email protected].
Mad Chef Craft Brewing first opened in July of 2015 at 2023 Miller Road, in East Petersburg, PA. In 2020, the brewery announced an expansion, with a satellite taproom in Lancaster. Then in 2021, the brewery took possession of the 7,500 sq/ft space next to them, increasing seating capacity to 250. It was at this time they also increased the brewing system to a 15BBL brewhouse.
Mad Chef is known for making a wide variety of beers, as well as having delicious food. With over 30 items on the menu, including kids and dessert sections, this is the perfect location for a night out with family or friends.
Pim Harmsen is the head brewer at Mad Chef Craft Brewing. Read more to find out his introduction to craft beer, where he sees the craft beer industry heading, and more!
What was your introduction to craft beer?
My introduction to craft beer was as a teenager sneaking and finding weird beers during the 90’s (under the age of 21….). Some of these included Arrogant Bastard, Yuengling Lager, Guinness, Harpoon IPA.
How did you get started as a brewer?
Starting as a homebrewer at age 17, I was in and out of the beer business in different capacities working in different restaurants and breweries. I started brewing professionally when my employer, Iron Hill Brewery gave me a shot. I made a jump from front-of-house management to the brewery. Happiest choice I’ve ever made.
What style allows you to be the most creative, and why?
IPA’s and SOURS. The complexities in the souring process whether its barrel aging or kettle souring and the crazy hops that are available make for some wild creativity, pun intended. Lagers and Traditional ales should stay just that, traditional and clean (perfect).
What was the first beer you ever brewed, and what did you learn from it?
Black Rye IPA. I brewed this all the time as a home-brewer and still find it to be one of my favorite styles to drink, brew, and talk about.
Where do you see the craft beer industry heading in the next few years?
Hopefully back to more traditional styles, less hazy and sweet stuff, please! The beer seems to be less beer and more juice these days!
Describe what it’s like to be a brewer in Pennsylvania.
Excellent camaraderie, teamwork, and technical resources between breweries. The shared passion and drive to be excellent lives within the Lancaster Brewers Guild! Whether its ingredients sharing or just yucking it up with people in your line of work, Pennsylvania is rich with talent!
What is the inspiration behind your beer names?
Comedy, ingredients-based, alliterative, and sometimes totally random, who knows anymore!
What is your favorite beer to drink right now?
As usual, I always enjoy sessionable lagers like Helles, Czech Pilsner, and Vienna lagers.
What is the most important lesson you learned in the beer industry so far?
Take your time, trust your gut, and triple sanitize all the time. Leave no room for error. Learn every day. Whether it’s a plumber, electrician, chef, or anyone else, take time to gain knowledge and build your brainpower!
Thank you to Pim for talking with us! Make sure you visit the Mad Chef Craft Brewing’s website to see all the latest beers and news! Also, follow Mad Chef on Facebook and Instagram.
