
4 minute read
Collusion Tap Works: Where Summer Days Are Brewed Just Right
Discover the brewery’s seasonal upgrades, events, and new flavors
By Marlena Schugt | BLOOM Program Manager
From sunny afternoons to laid-back evenings, Collusion Tap Works in Downtown York is the goto spot to enjoy what summer is all about. In 2024, the brewery received a BLOOM Grant to support their growth by adding additional seating and upgraded equipment.
We caught up with Jared Barnes, Head Brewer and Owner of Collusion Tap Works, to hear more about their spot in the Royal Square District and all they’re doing to have the good times flowing all summer long.
Q: What makes Collusion Tap Works stand out from other local restaurants?
We want to give our customers an original selection of food and drinks, so we make sure to have something for everyone. Last year, we celebrated brewing 1,000 different beers in 8 years, so there’s always something new on one of the 24 taps in our York location. We also carry locally made cider, wine, spirits, and canned & draft cocktails.
When it comes to our food, we try to keep costs as low as possible for us, so we can keep prices low for customers, but still make a high-quality and delicious product.
Plus, we have a parking lot and plenty of outdoor seating, which we always knew was something we wanted. With Mural Park right beside us, it’s a nice place to be on a summer day.
Q: What is it like being a business in Downtown York? How does the community play a role in success?
We’ve been fortunate to have the resources from Downtown Inc and our YCEA and Explore York memberships to get the word out about events and announcements. Last year’s BLOOM Grant Award helped us increase our seating capacity and upgrade some of our equipment. It’s also been fun to collaborate with all of the artists and other small businesses we have over here, like the Firefly Night Markets hosted by Creatives on King, or the Music for the Mammals fundraiser for Sam’s Beasties and MORE for Furry Friends.

Q: How does Collusion support the outdoor economy to help everyone have a fun-filled summer?
We just became a Trail-Friendly Business last year because of our proximity to the King St bike lane and the York County Heritage Rail Trail, which brings in a lot of customers after their hike or bike ride. We’ve also worked with outdoor-focused organizations like the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper and poured beer at their Give Local York Party earlier in May. I’m down at the river with our boat a few times a week in the summer; that’s my favorite thing to do in York.
Q: What else does Collusion have in store this summer?
We just released our summer menu with favorites from our Restaurant Week specials like the Hot Waffle Burger, old classics like the Reuben Fries, and new concepts like the Peruvian Steak Bowl.
There are a lot of events coming up too, like our weekly trivia nights on Tuesdays, monthly Poses & Pints and Paint & Sip events, and a lot more.
We’re also opening up our Downtown York taproom on Mondays to host private events, parties, meetings, gatherings, etc. More information and prices for the venue and catering are on our website.
Collusion Tap Works | 105 S Howard St | 717.893.0512 | collusiontapworks.com
Summer Menu Highlights:

BRUSCHETTA: Crostinis, fresh mozzarella, house made bruschetta, balsamic drizzle

TOSCANA FLATBREAD: Pesto, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, roasted garlic, balsamic glaze

HAM AND PRETZEL MELT: Roast ham, Swiss, spinach, honey mustard, served with fries, tots, or a house salad
