Seven years ago, Anthony Giordano stood in front of a rundown parking lot on High Street in Pottstown and saw more than weeds and old cars. He saw potential. Giordano, a longtime restaurant industry veteran, had already opened a small vodka bar in town and was getting to know the community. What he really wanted, though, was a beer garden.
That dream became The Alley on High Street, a vibrant outdoor bar and community space that has grown into a local favorite. What began with food trucks, picnic tables, and a mobile bar has now expanded into a full-fledged venue. Giordano recently took over the neighboring building. This added an indoor bar and pizza kitchen that allows The Alley to operate year-round.
“The first couple years, it was great, but we would lose five or six days a month to rain or extreme heat,” said Giordano. “Now we don’t have to worry. People can still enjoy themselves, inside or out.”
The Alley on High Street has also become a cultural hub. On the last Sunday of each month, it hosts a local arts and crafts show organized with artist Christy Morrell. The event draws dozens of vendors from around the region, plus live music, family-friendly activities, and a laid-back beer garden atmosphere.
That family focus is no accident. The Alley regularly hosts events like mini petting zoos and is committed to supporting local creators and businesses.
Pottstown itself has become an integral part of the story. Giordano spoke warmly about his experience doing business in town, calling it a welcoming and supportive environment for entrepreneurs. “Pottstown has been great,” he said. “I have nothing but good things to say about it.” He praised the borough’s walkability and its commitment to revitalization. He noted that officials have been receptive to new ideas and eager to attract more locally owned businesses. “We ultimately want to create a walkable district. Not like Manayunk or Phoenixville – something different.” For Giordano, Pottstown isn’t just where he runs a successful beer garden — it’s a community on the rise.
The Alley now serves only Pennsylvania-made products under Giordano’s Kiki Vodka license, offering a curated lineup of local beers, wines, and cocktails. With multiple other seasonal beer gardens under his belt—from Manayunk to Horsham to Chesterbrook—Giordano has made The Alley a flagship for his community-first, outdoor-forward approach to hospitality.
To learn more about The Alley and other businesses that make Pottstown the go-to destination, visit IPickPottstown.
