Dock Street Brewing Celebrates 40 Years with Pizza Party

PHILADELPHIA — Dock Street Brewing Company is hosting a celebratory pizza party to mark its impressive 40th anniversary. The brewery, founded by a mother-daughter duo, has become a staple in Philadelphia’s craft beer scene, renowned for its award-winning pies that complement its extensive beer selection. This special event showcases the hard work and passion of Rosemarie Certo and her daughter Renata Vesey, who have transformed their brewery into a beloved destination.

In 1985, Rosemarie Certo embarked on an entrepreneurial journey by establishing Dock Street Brewing Company. “It was a very, very boldly entrepreneurial thing to do,” she reflects. Inspired by their home-brewing experiences, she and her husband quickly saw the potential for a business. “All of a sudden, a light bulb went out in my head,” Certo recalls. The same year, she welcomed her daughter Renata into the world, joking that they are “twins” in their shared venture.

Today, Dock Street Brewing stands as Philadelphia’s first craft brewery and one of America’s originals. The brewery operates on Washington Avenue in South Philadelphia and has expanded to a second location in Fishtown, where they also serve a special anniversary beer. The duo attributes their success to simple yet powerful elements: “Passion,” states Certo, while Vesey adds, “Good beer. I’ve basically been drinking it since I was born.”

The legacy of Dock Street Brewing is deeply intertwined with Philadelphia’s history. Certo named the brewery after the original Dock Street, which, over 200 years ago, was the largest beer-producing area in the country. Notable figures, including Benjamin Franklin and Presidents Washington and Jefferson, frequented the area, adding to its historical significance.

A highlight of the anniversary celebration is the introduction of the “Renata Pizza,” which has gained recognition as one of Philadelphia’s best-kept culinary secrets. This unique dish features a combination of oven-roasted grapes, goat cheese, crème fraîche, shredded mozzarella, walnuts, and fresh mint. The recipe reflects the brewery’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavors.

For those interested in recreating the Renata Pizza at home, the following recipes provide a step-by-step guide:

Pizza Dough Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup semolina
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 small packet)
– 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, semolina, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the yeast, olive oil, and 1 cup of warm tap water (ensure it is not hot) and add to the flour mixture.
3. Knead the mixture until it forms a dough, then let it rest uncovered for about 10 minutes.
4. Knead it again for a few minutes until it is springy, avoiding over-kneading, which can toughen the dough.
5. Divide into two portions and roll into loose balls, enough for two medium pizzas.
6. Place on a cutting board and cover with a cloth. Let it rise for 3-4 hours at room temperature before shaping.

Renata Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:
– Small handful of green and/or purple grapes
– Walnuts
– Shredded mozzarella
– Crème fraîche
– Goat cheese
– Fresh mint
– Extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 260°C (500°F).
2. Roast the grapes on a tray. Optionally, marinate them in balsamic vinegar for added flavor before roasting.
3. Ensure the pizza dough has a light dusting of flour and transfer it to a pizza stone or pan.
4. Brush a light coating of olive oil on the outer crust.
5. Spread crème fraîche onto the dough, leaving a half-inch for the crust.
6. Add shredded mozzarella and small dollops of goat cheese.
7. Top with roasted grapes and walnuts.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, monitoring the bottom for firmness.
9. Once cooked, garnish with fresh mint before slicing.

As Dock Street Brewing Company celebrates this significant milestone, it reflects on its journey and the community it has built over the past four decades. With a blend of passion, innovation, and a commitment to quality, the brewery continues to thrive, captivating the taste buds of locals and visitors alike.