About Us

Crafted in West Seneca. Rooted in Community. Built to Last.

Rusty Nickel Brewing Company (RNBC) is a proudly local craft brewery located in the heart of West Seneca, NY. Founded in 2013 by Jason Havens and David Johnson, our brewery is the result of a shared love for great beer, science, and Buffalo’s hardworking spirit.

Before Rusty Nickel was born, Jason ran the WNY Beer Club—an organization dedicated to introducing Western New Yorkers to the craft beer movement through education, tastings, and tours. It was through this community that he met Dave, an award-winning homebrewer and geologist. With Jason’s background in civil engineering and Dave’s in science, the two set out to build something meaningful—Buffalo’s 8th craft brewery at the time.

Together, they transformed a former daycare and dance studio at 4350 Seneca Street into the warm and rustic brewery and tasting room we call home today. Reclaimed wood, handmade fixtures, and personal touches fill every corner of the space—including live edge wood from a tree on Dave’s property.

The name Rusty Nickel is a tribute to Buffalo’s past as the “Nickel City” and part of the “Rust Belt.” But here’s the twist—nickel doesn’t actually rust. It shines on. Just like our city.

The ribbon cutting ceremony at the Grand Opening of Rusty Nickel Brewing. Owners Jason Havens and David Johnson stand behind the ribbon ready to cut, they are joined by members of their staff in front of the Tasting Room.

Our Mission

At Rusty Nickel Brewing, we’re more than just beer.
We aim to create a community gathering space that’s warm, welcoming, and inclusive. Our mission is to offer consistently high-quality, locally crafted beverages, and to provide one-of-a-kind experiences that blend education, entertainment, and hometown pride.

The front entrance to Rusty Nickel Brewing's Tasting Room. A one-story building with wood siding. A set of doors in centered on two sets of windows. A round wooden sign hangs above the front door.

What We Offer

House-Made Craft Beverages
We brew a wide range of beer styles—from crisp lagers to dark stouts, juicy IPAs, and bold sours. Our lineup includes over 35 unique brews each year, including our flagship:
Slice O’ Havens – an Orange-Vanilla Imperial Cream Ale.

We also offer:

  • House-made hard seltzers

  • NYS-produced wines, ciders, meads & spirits

  • Cocktails and slushies

  • Seasonal specialties & award-winning Bloody Mary’s

Food & Drink
Our team serves up fresh, made-to-order foods, that pair perfectly with a craft beverage. Nachos platters, Artisan Charcuterie Boards, and oversized Bavarian Soft Pretzels with Beer Cheese are perfect for sharing with a group, while our Grilled Paninis and Tacos are the perfect handhelds to satisfy your hunger.

Owner, Jason Havens, shows off a silver medal awarded to Rusty Nickel Brewing by the New York State Brewers Association for their beer Slice O' Havens Orange-Vanilla Imperial Cream Ale.
Members of Rusty Nickel's Mug Club pose for a photo in front of the fountain in the beer garden. They proudly hoist their mugs in cheers

Membership Perks
Join our Mug Club—a loyal crew of 100+ members enjoying exclusive benefits, events, and early access to new releases.

a wedding party cheers as a newlywed couple sprays champagne in celebration. The group is standing in front of Rusty Nickel Brewing.

Private Events
From weddings and birthdays to retirements and graduations, our indoor and outdoor spaces provide the perfect backdrop. Our scenic patio features gardens, ponds, TVs, heaters, and a timber pergola—ideal for any celebration.

Musicians perform on the stage in the beer garden at night. guests watch while enjoying a fire.

Events & Experiences

We’re proud to be a place where the community gathers all year long. Whether you’re here to try something new, learn about beer, or just have a good time—we’ve got something for everyone.

Signature Events Include:
🎉 Anniversary Party (May/June)
☘️ St. Patrick’s Day Music Fest
🍂 Harvest Fest
🎆 New Year’s Eve Celebration

Regular Programming:

  • Trivia Nights

  • Murder Mystery Parties

  • Beer Pairings & Tastings

  • Game Day Watch Parties

  • Award-Winning Bloody Mary Brunches

Overhead image of the beer garden at night. a large covered patio can be seen with people sitting throughout the space. patio lights are strung overhead.

Proud to Be Local

As one of the first breweries licensed under the NYS Farm Brewery Bill, we proudly support New York’s agricultural community by sourcing local hops, grains, and produce. Our commitment to local doesn’t stop at ingredients—it’s woven into everything we do.

Come Raise a Glass With Us

Whether you’re a Buffalo native, a beer enthusiast, or just looking for a good time—Rusty Nickel Brewing is here to welcome you in.

Come for the beer, stay for the experience, and leave as part of the story.

  • Cheers from the entire RNBC team!