travelling to both cities next week, not as well versed in these metro areas for great, decently available beers that I can't get I Chicago. What should I be looking for in stores to bring back home?
Real quick off the top... Pittsburgh area- Fatheads, VooDoo Cleveland area- Fatheads, Brew Kettle- White/ Black Rajah, Columbus- IPA, Maumee Bay- Total Eclipse I usually bring a case of Fat heads Headhunter with me every time I drive to Chicago. The locals are always very appreciative! Right now theres a Fat Head seasonal release of Trailhead (cans). You should see it on shelves in Cleveland area for sure. Good luck and safe travels.
Can't speak for Pittsburgh, but as far as bottle shops go in the Cleveland Area I'd head to Lakewood on the west side. Rozi's is usually my one stop shop, as just about everything except the Labatt Blue Lime bottles rotate well. Great local selection & special releases. If they don't have what you're looking for, Ross's Deli and Caps & Corks is down the street too.
