Today we’d like to introduce you to John Roskowski.
Hi John, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
For more than a decade, John Roskowski built his career in Charleston SC, working everywhere from country clubs and large-scale catering to a wood-fired pizza spot and high-end restaurants. Along the way, he developed a deep appreciation for the food, hospitality, and experiences that bring people together. His passion for Japanese cuisine led him to become certified in the discipline and travel on an exclusive culinary tour of Japan—an experience that continues to influence his cooking today. Eventually, John felt the pull to return to his hometown of Williamsport and create a place of his own. John Ryan Brewery is the result: a reflection of John’s travels, experience, and love of hospitality, with a strong belief that great food, community partnerships, and memorable experiences can help make a place feel like home.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Opening John Ryan Brewery was a labor of patience and persistence. Renovating a historic building at the beginning of the end of COVID-19 meant navigating a multi-year construction process alongside labor shortages, supply-chain disruptions, rising costs, and the unique challenges of preserving and adapting an older structure.
Sourcing quality and specialty ingredients has presented its own challenges. In Central Pennsylvania, where demand for highly specialized products can be limited, availability, distribution, and shipping costs often make sourcing the ingredients we want difficult. Rather than compromise, we have focused on building relationships with farmers, producers, and suppliers who share our commitment to quality.
John Ryan is ultimately a product of that perseverance—a place shaped by the building’s history, our culinary experiences, and a commitment to creating something distinctive for Williamsport. Our goal is simple: thoughtful food, well-crafted beer, genuine hospitality, and an experience worth returning to.
As you know, we’re big fans of John Ryan Brewery . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
John Ryan Brewery combines chef-driven food, house-brewed beer, creative cocktails, and genuine hospitality in Williamsport PA.
What do we specialize in / what are we known for?
-Chef-driven food that goes beyond traditional brewery fare.
-House-brewed beer designed to complement the food and seasons.
-Creative cocktails and mocktails that are part of the overall experience.
-Globally inspired cuisine, shaped by John’s culinary background and travels.
-Special dining experiences, themed dinners, tastings, brunches, and community events.
-Private dining and events with a personalized approach.
What sets us apart?
We bring together a serious food program, an onsite brewery, creative drinks, and genuine hospitality. John Ryan offers the quality and creativity of a destination restaurant while remaining approachable and welcoming.
What should we be most proud of?
That we have created a brand that feels distinctly our own. John Ryan reflects John’s experiences, travels, curiosity, and commitment to Williamsport rather than trying to fit into a traditional brewery or restaurant model.
What should readers know about our brand?
John Ryan Brewery pairs unexpected flavors, well-made drinks, and a warm, unpretentious approach to hospitality, creating an approachable dining experience shaped by curiosity, craftsmanship, and a strong connection to Williamsport.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
John has a library of cookbooks that are the foundation of the food and beverage programs here. In additon, travel as often as possible, as close as Philadelphia and as far as Japan to see what people are enjoying, inspired by, and looking forward to the upcoming changes in the industry. Collaboration with our team is also a pivotal part of the process as everyone that works with us has a unique background and life expereince they can bring to the four walls.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.johnryanbrewery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnryanbrewery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnryanbrewery/
- Other: https://toast.app/r/john-ryan-brewery-151-e-third-st?date=2026-06-11&time=10%3A30&partySize=2
