By Kate Bartlett
Steelbound Brewery & Distillery has recently collected an array of accolades both locally and nationally for their food and beverages. They won a record of four awards at the National WingFest in Buffalo, as well as the top prize of best cocktail at the American Distilling Institute Awards, a very prestigious award in the liquor industry. Steelbound is also opening their fourth location in Las Vegas this week, and recently opened their Williamsville location this past month.
The original location of Steelbound is located at 6600 US-219 in Ellicottville and has been crafting original food and beverages for over five years. Owner and founder Bill Bursee is very proud of their recent awards, and feels humbled yet honored at the same time. “Our chefs and bartenders are some of the best and most hardworking in the industry, and this comes well deserved,” says Bill. “Chef Om, our head chef in Ellicottville, makes incredible sauces, and is an expert with spices and flavorful recipes.
This year marks the third year that Steelbound has participated in WingFest, winning noteworthy awards each and every year. Their first year, 2022, Steelbound won 1st place for Best Overall Wing and 2nd place in 2023, winning 3 total awards both years. This year, Steelbound collected a record four awards, including 1st place for Best Craft Brewery Wing. “Wining amongst the local breweries was special on a different level,” remarks Bill. “To be standing on stage with our fellow restauranteurs in the area, being recognized for the best wing, was something I’m truly proud of.”
Steelbound also won Second Place for Best Sriracha Wing with their Flying Goose Wing, Second Place for Best Creative Sweet Wing Sauce and Third Place for Best Dry Rub. “This is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion of our entire team,” says Bill. “From our innovative brewers to our talented kitchen staff, everyone played a crucial role in this success.”
As a smaller, locally owned and operated restaurant, the Steelbound owners and chefs personally attend each and every festival they participate in. “This is passion driven; we’re out there making the wings, stirring the sauces and preparing the food for these festivals. It’s hard work, but we love it.”
Drew Czera, the Wing King and founder of WingFest noted the stiff competition this year along with the large crowd. “We had a great turnout despite the weather and there was a lot of friendly competition between the participants,” says Drew. “Steelbound really hit it out of the park. Their wings were a big hit with the judges.”
While the wings are not currently available on the menu, Steelbound has plans to incorporate them soon. “We’re planning to introduce a large wing menu so these wings will be regularly available at our restaurants,” says Bill. “The community has spoken, and we will be making them a part of our menu at all locations.” Steelbound has also won several awards for their Sweet Chili & Garlic Sauce which will soon be made commercially.
The days before WingFest, Bill attended the American Distilling Institute Awards in Baltimore, Maryland, where Steelbound won the top prize for best cocktail amongst hundreds of participants from around the country. Their Blueballs Blueberry Cocktail took home the prestigious award of Best in Class and Gold Medal in the ready-to-drink category, beating out many well-known companies including High Noon. The cocktail is made in the bar at every Steelbound location, but is also available canned. “This award really put Steelbound on the map for liquor,” commends Bill.
Steelbound recently celebrated their soft opening to their Williamsville location, Steelbound on Main, (5195 Main Street) connected to the Mosey Hotel. This menu features many Steelbound favorites, but includes a few more upscale items along with an Indian Fusion influence.
Bill is grateful to his hardworking team, and the community for this recognition. “We’re so thankful for these awards and Steelbound is looking forward to celebrating more milestones with the community in the coming months.” For more information visit https://www.steelboundevl.com and follow on social media @ Steelbound Brewing & Distilling on Facebook and @steelboundoffical on Instagram.