Best Breweries in Chicago
Ah, the Windy City that is Chicago, Illinois. Home to Wrigley Field, Da Bears, and the River Walk, Chicago also is known for its deep-rooted food and beverage scene. Let’s set out and find some of the best breweries in Chicago. Just a couple of quick reminders:
PUB CRAWLER TIP #1: Hours can vary, please call ahead to confirm.
PUB CRAWLER TIP #2: Anyone considering trying all ten locations in one night should put phone numbers for Uber or Lyft in their wallet or purse. #drinkresponsibly
That being said, let’s go crawling!
1. Maplewood Brewery & Distillery
2717 North Maplewood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 270-1061
The Maplewood Brewery & Distillery opened its doors in 2014 in the heart of the Logan Square community. It is unique in that it is the first establishment of its kind to house both a distilling and brewing facilities in the same building. Some of the liquors they produce include Spruce Gin and Fat Pug, a malt whiskey. Their craft beer selection includes Son of Juice, an IPA, and Charlatan, an American Pale Ale. To tame the effects of the beer and liquor, they offer a snack menu consisting of various meats, cheeses, and crackers. Dogs are welcome to lounge with their owners on the patio only.
2. Half Acre Beer Company
4257 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 248-4038
The Half Acre Beer Company has two Chicago locations, one on Lincoln Avenue and the other on Balmoral. Both locations are similar in that they offer patrons both kitchens and taprooms. However, if you want to buy something from the gift shop, you’ll have to go to the Lincoln location. And if you would rather sit outdoors in a beer garden, you’ll need to head to the Balmoral site. Food is available for takeout from the café in Balmoral. The Half Acre menu of year-round brews includes Hallow Double IPA and the Bodem Half Acre India Pale Ale. Pet owners are welcome to bring their dogs along.
Special Note: Dog Friendly
3. Haymarket Pub & Brewery
737 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 638-0700
Serving craft beer fans since 2010, the Haymarket Pub & Brewery operates a brewpub in Chicago and a taproom in Bridgman, Michigan. What’s your fancy? A burger? How about some pizza or homemade sausage? Take your pick! With menu items like their Oyster Mushroom Pizza, Seasonal House Made Sausage, and BBQ Cheddar & Bacon Burger, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. Wash it all down with a nice Baltic Porter or a Beam Me Up, Scotty Bourbon Barrel Aged Scotch Ale and you’ll be good to go. You might need a nap afterwards, but that’s okay because naps rule!
4. Begyle Brewing
1800 West Cuyler Avenue, Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 661-6963
Beer to go, how great is that? If you’re looking to sample a few beers before getting some to go, then Begyle Brewing is the place for you. Located in the Ravenswood Industrial Community, the folks at Begyle Brewing boast an amazing selection of carefully crafted beers, some of the favorites being Bingo Bango, Snooze Button, and No Tomorrow. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in the Beer Garden, then grab a growler or keg and take the party elsewhere. Begyle offers its patrons 6- or 12-month memberships that allow for discounts on merchandise and beverages as well as admission to members only events.
5. Revolution Brewing
2323 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago IL 60647
(773) 227-2739
Trust us when we say to wear your ‘eating pants’ (i.e., pants with a stretchy waistband) when visiting Revolution Brewing. When you see the menu, you’ll be like a deer in headlights as you try to decide between the Pulled Pork Sandwich, Hombre Burger, and the Fish and Chips. Throw in a side of their scrumptious Sweet Potato Cakes and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s fit for a King or Queen. For your beverage selection, consider their popular double dry-hopped West Coast Hero IPA, Brunch Hero, or the Lucia Spelt Saison Ale. If you want to do the grab and go thing, check out their Heroes and Sours variety packs. With a solid 4 stars and 2100 Yelp reviews, Revolution is arguably one of the best breweries in Chicago.
6. Cruz Blanca Brewery & Taqueria
904 W Randolph St Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 733-1975
Mexican food plus hand-crafted beer equals a powerful and tasty combination. That is just what you will get when you pay a visit to the Cruz Blanca Brewery and Taquerìa. Start your meal with, of course, the Chips & Salsa. Then place your order for a Freetown Hazy Double IPA, a House Margarita, or a Vodka Daisy cocktail. Keep munching on your Chips & Salsa while you try to decide between the Crispy Chicken Milanesa Torta, the Shrimp Veracruzana Tlayuda giant tostada, or the Lamb or Shrimp tacos. Whoa! You finished that margarita kind of fast. You should order another.
7. Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
1746 W Chicago Ave Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 929-2202
Looking for something just a little different, we decided to try the brewpub at Forbidden Root. This little gem of a brewpub is Chicago’s first ‘botanic brewery’ using ingredients roots, various fruits and berries, and herbs in their offerings. Crowd favorites include their Strawberry Basil Hefeweizen, Sparkling Rose Ale, and their citrus-tinged smile inducing Smoochie Boochies. The modest menu at Forbidden Root includes House Made Potato Chips, Chicken Wings, and the Forbidden Root Reuben. Can we tempt you with a dessert? Trust us, the Red Velvet Cupcake is truly to die for! Seriously, how can you NOT like a place named ‘Forbidden Root’?
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