Erie Gems (Part 2): Distillers, Donuts, & Delis

If you’ve read a Maleno blog post before, you know we like to write about what makes Erie, Pennsylvania, special. From its affordable real estate and lakefront neighborhoods to its historic homes and lush hiking trails, this lakeside city and county has a lot to love.

Earlier this year, we started a series called “Erie Gems,” where we highlight a handful of places and businesses in various categories. In that debut, we listed many of Erie’s amazing beaches, breweries, and bakeries. Sharing these community assets not only boosts civic pride but can also encourage local shopping, strengthen tourism, and inspire people to become new Erie residents.

In our latest installment of Erie Gems, we’re looking at Distillers, Donuts, and Delis. Whether you’re looking for a luscious libation, a scrumptious sweet treat, or a tasty sandwich you can sink your teeth into, we think this piece is for you.

Please note: There are many incredible places in Erie. So, if your favorite location isn’t on the list, don’t worry! We’ll be adding more in the future. Also, this list isn’t in ranking order! We’re just showcasing the amazing places Erie has to offer.

Distilleries

Mmm, there’s nothing like a mojito to cool you down on a hot summer day or an old fashioned to warm your bones on a cold winter night. If you’re looking for something to sip on, swing by one of Erie’s distilleries.

1. Altered State Distillery

Altered State Distillery’s craft spirits are worth stopping for. With live music just about every weekend, you can really sip back, listen, and enjoy. If you’re interested in learning more about the distillation process, you can schedule a tour to check out their custom-built production space, which houses a 600-gallon mash tun, 500-gallon copper hybrid still, 500-gallon pot still, two 600-gallon fermenters, and a whole lot more.

Their interior features handcrafted tables and a one-of-a-kind bar, giving the distillery a sophisticated yet rustic aesthetic. In the warmer months, you can also sit outside on their patio and watch bands jam into the night.

2. Erie Distillery

Erie Distilled Spirits is a craft distillery and cocktail bar specializing in specialty distilled spirits, in-house premium cocktails, and a local selection of craft drinks. Located just one mile from Presque Isle State Park, it’s a great place to stop for a nightcap after a lovely afternoon on the beach.

Erie Distillery produces a range of spirits, including staples like vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey. But they also have some flavorful novelty options, such as apple pie moonshine, hot pepper moonshine, and limoncello.

3. Luminary

Luminary Distilling has two locations that deliver their own unique experiences. The one on North Park Row has a boutique cocktail bar and bottle shop vibe. It’s the perfect place to meet a small group of a few friends and enjoy a couple of high-end drinks.

The original location up on Upper Peach Street delivers a unique micro-distillery experience. The volume of spirits they’re able to produce with their artisanal small-batch distilling process is awe-inspiring, especially as their largest finishing still is only 53 gallons. Beyond the booze, their food is also top-notch!

Donuts

If you’re from Erie, you probably already know which two donut shops will be on this list. If you’re just visiting, you owe it to yourself to indulge in these sweet morsels of fried goodness. The high-quality decadence of their donuts has been as consistent as gravity for decades and, hopefully, decades to come.

1. H&K Donut Shop

If you want to make someone’s morning, bring a box of H&K Donuts home or to work. People simply light up when they see that white H&K box sporting that classic donut and rolling pin label.

Established in 1959, this small shop in Millcreek is a quintessential Erie gem. With classic wood panel walls and vintage signage, the inside is frozen in time. Be sure to get there early so you can choose from their entire selection of donuts (glazed twist, pinwheel, cream-filled? It’s so hard to decide.).

2. Mighty Fine Donuts

Mighty Fine Donuts is the eastside equivalent to H & K. Just watch an Erieite’s face when someone brings in a big white box donning that familiar logo—that genial baker giving the OK gesture. A smile emerges almost immediately.

Established in 1967, Mighty Fine Donuts’ quality has stood the test of time. Although the original founder passed the torch in May 2023, the new owners maintained every ounce of quality and continue to serve up some of the best-tasting donuts in Erie and beyond.

Delis

It has been said that “the sandwich is the most noble form of lunch.” And, when the right deli is making it, we tend to agree!

1. Dee’s Delicatessen

If there’s a sandwich and soup worth stopping for, it’s a Dee’s sandwich and soup. With daily specials, hearty portions, and fresh ingredients, it’s no wonder the place is packed at lunch. Even with a line nearly out the door, their service is always impressively fast.

Dee’s is truly a pillar of the community—you can tell by the number of regulars who come in the door. Last thing: If you have room for dessert, consider treating yourself to their chocolate chip cookies.

2. Lakeshore Teresa’s Deli

If you’re on the west side of town, you have to drop into Lakeshore Teresa’s Deli. Their subs are gargantuan and packed with premium meats and cheese on a fresh sub roll. Quite honestly, you’d be hard-pressed to find subs this stacked anywhere else in the county. It’s not just subs, either.

Lakeshore Teresa’s still hand-makes all of the meatballs, lasagna, spaghetti, pizza sauce, pizza dough, alfredo sauce, and a whole lot more from scratch. Drop by, and you’ll see why this is a legendary deli in Erie.

Life on the Lakeside

For those interested in relocating to Erie, know that it has a lot to offer. This list is just scratching the surface of the cultural amenities here. For long-term residents, we hope this piece inspires you to try somewhere new or reminds you of how great our lakeside city and county are. If you’re ever inspired to move, whether relocating to Erie or simply across town, reach out to Maleno’s real estate team to learn more about how we can help.