Chicago, IL Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider's Tour to the City's Best Brews
Chicago's craft beer scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. With an ever-growing list of breweries, Chicago offers a beer for every palate, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and everything in between. The Windy City's breweries are not just places to sip and savor, but cultural hubs where innovation and tradition meld to form a unique beer experience. The rise of local breweries in Chicago caters to both beer aficionados and casual drinkers, making the city a notable destination for those seeking to explore the world of craft beer.
Local breweries have carved out their own niches within Chicago's neighborhoods, turning areas like Logan Square and the South Loop into destinations not just for nightlife but for local beer enthusiasts. Establishments such as Maplewood Brewery & Distillery merge the craft of brewing with distilling, offering something a bit different for those curious about the craftsmanship behind their beverages. Meanwhile, spaces like the Revolution Brewing Tap Room demonstrate the communal nature of Chicago's craft beer culture, providing the backdrop for both social gatherings and the appreciation of finely crafted ales.
Chicago's brewery itineraries appeal to a broad audience, with options ranging from casual taprooms to those fit for a more discerning palate. The local beer scene in Chicago is reflective of the city itself: robust, full of character, and welcoming to all who appreciate the craft. Whether it's after work or on a weekend visit, locals and tourists alike can find a spot that resonates with their taste and desire for a locally made brew. This guide aims to navigate through the rich tapestry of Chicago's craft beer offerings, highlighting the must-visit breweries and the unique flavors that define each neighborhood's beer culture.
The History and Rise of Chicago Craft Beer
Chicago has long been a hub for beer enthusiasts, with a brewing history that dates back to the early 19th century. This section delves into the city's rich tradition and the enduring legacy of craft beer in the windy city.
Birth of the Brewers
Chicago's brewing story began in 1839 when the city’s mayor teamed up with a businessman to open the first brewery. They produced "Lill’s Cream Ale," which gained nationwide recognition. By the 1880s and 1890s, the number of breweries had surged, but this golden age faced setbacks with the advent of prohibition.
The resurgence of Chicago's brewing scene took a significant turn with the introduction of craft beers. Small batch taverns laid the groundwork for a culture that would embrace diverse and rich flavors. The city has given rise to iconic brands such as Goose Island, which notably brews 312 Urban Wheat Ale, a homage to the city's area code and a staple in the local craft beer canon.
Today, Chicago continues to foster a vibrant craft beer community, with numerous breweries pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing. Visitors and locals alike revel in the taste of the city's craft beers, which encapsulate the spirit of innovation and the storied history of a city that has long celebrated its love for a quality pint.
Top Chicago Breweries to Visit
Chicago's craft beer scene offers a diverse range of brewing establishments, each with its own character. From legendary pioneering heavyweights to innovative newcomers, a visit to these breweries represents a taste of the city's rich beer culture.
Revolution Brewing
As one of the leaders in the city's craft beer surge, Revolution Brewing has become a staple. With its taproom and brewpub in Logan Square, visitors can sip on the widely-loved Anti-Hero IPA or seasonal specialties in a vibrant and bustling atmosphere.
Dovetail Brewery
Dovetail Brewery takes a traditional European approach to brewing. This brewery in North Center is known for its finely crafted lagers and Hefeweizens, which can be enjoyed in their intimate, wood-accented taproom.
Half Acre Beer Company
Notable for its original location in Lincoln Park, Half Acre Beer Company later expanded to a second, larger brewery on Balmoral. Their Daisy Cutter Pale Ale is a local legend, and the taproom offers a wide array of flavorful, hop-centric brews.
Off Color Brewing - The Mousetrap
Off Color Brewing's taproom, The Mousetrap, is where innovation meets quirkiness. Visitors here can explore unique brews that push the boundaries of traditional beer styles, all within an invitingly playful setting.
Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery is a pioneer in botanic beers, utilizing roots, stems, leaves, and flowers. This brewpub in West Town not only showcases an array of inventive beers but also offers a full-service kitchen with a menu that complements their botanical theme.
Marz Community Brewing
Marz Community Brewing in Bridgeport stands out with its experimental beers and artistic flair. They're known for a selection that includes the flagship Jungle Boogie and a series of Bubbly Creek sours, enjoyed in an eclectic space complete with an arcade.
Goose Island Beer Co.
A titan in the Chicago brewing landscape, Goose Island Beer Co. has been a frontrunner since its establishment in 1988. The brewery's tours and taproom offer an insightful look into the craft beer industry, featuring classics like the Bourbon County Stout.
Begyle Brewing Company
Situated in the Ravenswood corridor, Begyle Brewing Company is a friendly neighborhood fixture with a community feel. They host a variety of events and offer a rotating selection of approachable beers with a focus on quality and camaraderie.
On Tour Brewing Company
In the West Town neighborhood, On Tour Brewing Company celebrates music and beer in equal measure. Its laid-back taproom is a testament to the brewery's passion, where visitors can enjoy award-winning beers and the occasional live performance.
Each brewery offers its own distinct experience, from tours and tastings to pairing events. Visitors to these taprooms and brewpubs will discover why Chicago's breweries have earned such a renowned place in the craft beer world.
Diverse Beer Styles and What to Try
Chicago's craft beer scene is as vibrant as it is eclectic, featuring an array of styles from robust ales and crisp lagers to bold stouts and inventive sours. Visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to discover traditional tastes as well as creative brews that push the boundaries of beer.
Exploring Ales
One can't discuss Chicago's beer without mentioning Goose Island Beer Company, famed for its range of ales, most notably its Bourbon County Stout. For those seeking a wheat ale, Marz Community Brewing's flagship, Jungle Boogie, is also a standout choice with its unique palatability.
The Lagers of Chicago
Lagers are celebrated for their clean, crisp flavors, and Chicago breweries serve some of the best in the Midwest. Artisan lagers can be found in local favorites such as Dovetail Brewery, which pays homage to European brewing traditions.
Sourcing Unique Stouts and IPAs
For those with a taste for the darker and more bitter end of the spectrum, Chicago's stout and IPA offerings are plentiful. Special mention goes to the Bourbon County Stout from Goose Island for a rich, barrel-aged experience, while hop lovers would appreciate the varied IPA selections from breweries like Revolution Brewing.
The Specialty of Sours
The sour beer trend has taken hold in Chicago, with Marz Community Brewing leading the charge with its Bubbly Creek sour series. These tart and refreshing brews are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the traditional beer palate.
Ciders and Experimental Brews
Finally, for something different, Chicago's craft beer scene includes a variety of ciders and experimental brews to suit any adventurous drinker. Local establishments often feature seasonal and limited edition batches that challenge the status quo of beer.
Craft Beer Tasting and Education
Exploring Chicago's vibrant craft beer scene is an adventure of taste and knowledge. From the bustling Malt Row to iconic taprooms, aficionados and newcomers alike can discover rich flavors and the art behind brewing.
Guided Brewery Tours
Malt Row, located in the Ravenswood neighborhood, offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look at the brewing process. Visitors can learn about the history of Chicago’s craft beer scene, the intricacy of malt selection, and the importance of the right pint glass. Most tours end with a curated beer tasting experience.
312 Urban Wheat Ale: Available at Goose Island’s brewery tours with insights on its creation.
Taproom Tours: Many breweries hold tours that highlight their unique beer offerings.
Beer Tasting Experiences
Chicago's taprooms are educational hubs for beer enthusiasts. Here, one can sample a diverse range of beers, from robust stouts to hoppy ales, each served in the proper glassware to enhance the tasting experience.
Tasting Flights: Offer samples of different brews, which showcase the spectrum from light, fruity ales to deep, complex stouts.
Educational Sessions: Often led by knowledgeable staff, these sessions explain the nuances of beer styles, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles.
Chicago's Craft Beer and Food Pairing Scene
Chicago's craft beer landscape couples artisanal brewing with an impressive food pairing culture. Brewpubs and pizzerias alike have embraced the synergy between their finely crafted beers and complementary food items, creating memorable dining experiences.
Best Brewpub Foods
Brewpubs in Chicago serve a variety of foods that perfectly complement their house-made beers. The Begyle Brewing Company, for example, is not only known for its diverse beer selection but also for the quality of its food offerings. Food trucks often partner with local breweries, providing a rotating menu that keeps the pairing options fresh and exciting. Menu favorites at many Chicago brewpubs include:
Pretzels with beer cheese: A salty and soft pretzel paired with creamy beer-infused cheese sauce enhances the flavors of a malty lager or ale.
Beer-battered fish and chips (What wine goes well with fish and chips?): The light, crispy batter infused with a pale ale or pilsner offers a delightful texture and taste alongside a cold brew.
Craft Beer and Pizza Combos
Chicago's craft beer scene shines when paired with the city's famous pizza – whether it's deep-dish or tavern-style thin. Here are some well-regarded pairings:
Pizza Style Craft Beer Style Brewery Suggestion
Deep-Dish Robust Porter or Stout Goose Island Beer Company
Tavern-Style Thin India Pale Ale (IPA) Funkytown Brewery
The heavy, cheesy layers of a deep-dish pizza require a beer with body and character, and a robust porter or stout fits the bill, cutting through the richness with its own complexity. On the other hand, the sharper flavors of a thinner, crisper crust can stand up to the hoppy punch of an IPA, making for an invigorating combination.
Events and Community in the Chicago Beer Scene
Chicago's beer scene is dynamic, with a calendar rich in festivals and a community known for embracing collaboration and innovation among its breweries. Now, let's explore the city's vibrant beer events and the creative partnerships they foster.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
Square Roots Festival: Held in Lincoln Square, this event is a convergence of craft beer and live music orchestrated by the Old Town School of Folk Music. Attendees can sample over 50 local craft brews, including exclusive batches and limited release taps, complemented by Chicago's diverse food offerings.
Illinois Craft Beer Week: A celebration of Chicago's craft beer culture, this week-long event encompasses beer festivals, tap takeovers, tastings, brewery showcases, and opportunities to meet the brewers themselves.
Chicago Friday Night Flights: This summer event combines beer tasting from various local craft breweries with a selection of food vendors and live music. The culmination of these tastings often occurs at the renowned Taste of Chicago in Grant Park.
Event Name Location Attraction
Square Roots Festival Lincoln Square Craft beer, live music
Illinois Craft Beer Week Various Brewery showcases
Chicago Friday Night Flights Grant Park Beer tasting, Food vendors
Brewery Collaborations and Releases
Goose Island Beer Company: A major fixture in the Chicago brewery scene, Goose Island is famous for its Bourbon County Stout. They often lead the industry in barrel-aged beers and host releases that generate excitement across the community.
Midwestern Fall Beers: As the seasons change, breweries across Chicago introduce creative seasonal offerings, including a variety of fall beers that capture the essence of the region and highlight local ingredients.
Events in Logan Square: Known for its creative pulse, Logan Square plays host to beer events that not only offer new releases but also reflect the neighborhood's vibrant culture.
Brewery News: Chicago's brewing community is keen on keeping enthusiasts informed through a variety of channels, ensuring that news of collaborations, releases, and beer-related events is widely accessible.
The Chicago beer scene thrives on the synergy between its events and the community, proving that the city's love for beer is deeply rooted in shared experiences and a passion for innovation.
Neighborhood Focus: Craft Beer Havens
Exploring Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods reveals distinct craft beer scenes, each with its own character. Neighborhood breweries serve as social hubs and offer unique local flavors that reflect the community's spirit.
Ravenswood: Malt Row
Ravenswood, often referred to as Malt Row, is renowned for its high density of craft breweries. This area has become a staple for enthusiasts seeking a variety of craft beers, from traditional lagers to experimental ales.
Local Favorites:
Band of Bohemia: Originally a Michelin-starred brewpub known for culinary-inspired beers.
Empirical Brewery: Focuses on scientific experimentation with different brewing methods.
The Buzz of Logan Square
Logan Square resonates with the energy of Chicago's craft beer culture. This historic neighborhood is home to innovative and community-focused breweries that offer everything from classic brews to bold new styles.
Notable Spots:
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery: Illinois' first to combine both brewing and distilling, offering a variety of spirited drinks.
Revolution Brewing: One of the city's largest and most beloved craft breweries, a staple in the Chicago beer scene.
West Loop's Beer Culture
The West Loop has evolved from a meatpacking district to a vibrant community brimming with breweries and gastropubs. The area exudes an industrial chic vibe and is perfect for those looking to pair their craft beer with cutting-edge dining.
Brewery Highlights:
Haymarket Pub & Brewery: A pioneer in the neighborhood that intertwines classic styles with innovation.
Cruz Blanca CervecerĂa: Offers a unique take on Mexican-inspired lagers and ales.
Each neighborhood contributes to the rich tapestry of Chicago's beer culture, making the city a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers. Ravenswood, Logan Square, and the West Loop are just a few areas where the local scenes reflect the creativity and camaraderie inherent to the craft beer community.
Supporting Local: The Impact of Buying Chicago Beers
Purchasing local Chicago beers enriches the city's culture and economy. This support leads to thriving neighborhoods and a vital, diverse industry.
The Rise of Local Brewery Stores
Local breweries in Chicago are not merely places to enjoy a pint; they foster community and drive economic growth. Stores such as Goose Island Beer Company have become landmarks since their inception in 1988, reflecting the city's spirit and dedication to craft beer quality and innovation. Illinois craft breweries, an intrinsic part of the local economy, brought in almost $3.4 billion in 2019 alone, indicative of the industry's substantial economic impact.
These brewery stores offer a diverse array of beers, from refreshing ales to complex, barrel-aged brews, catering to the eclectic tastes of Chicagoans and visitors alike. This variety ensures that all customers—whether they're aficionados or casual drinkers—can find something that appeals to their palate. Furthermore, local establishments like Revolution Brewery mesh cultural experiences with their offerings, providing a social space for film aficionados and beer lovers to mingle, as seen in the 2013 film "Drinking Buddies."
By choosing to purchase from local breweries and stores, residents and tourists alike invest in the city — sustaining jobs, fueling the economy, and ensuring the continuation of Chicago's rich beer-loving tradition.
Navigating Changes: Craft Beer in Times of COVID-19
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought a wave of challenges for the craft beer industry in Chicago. Breweries had to swiftly adapt to the shifting landscape, with many leveraging delivery and pickup services to meet consumer demand and comply with health regulations.
Shifts to Delivery and Pickup Services
During the pandemic, craft breweries in Chicago pivoted to enhance their delivery and pickup offerings. Casa Humilde CervecerĂa, for example, began soon after its inception and had to quickly navigate the turbulent times brought on by COVID-19. The brewery, which had relied on its in-house staff, had to shift focus and find new ways to reach customers. Such innovative approaches were essential for maintaining business continuity when traditional on-premise sales plummeted due to the pandemic.
Chicago's craft breweries enhanced their delivery systems to provide customers with convenient access to their products. This shift not only catered to the increased demand for at-home consumption but also helped breweries sustain operations during periods of restricted social interaction. Brewers Association statistics indicated a drop in on-premise sales, shining a light on the importance of alternative sales channels like delivery and pickup services during the pandemic.
The pivot to delivery and pickup services proved to be a resilient strategy for local breweries. It allowed them to retain a connection with their customer base, ensuring that Chicago's craft beer enthusiasts could continue to enjoy their favorite local brews from the safety and comfort of their homes.
