Illinois
Like everywhere in the United States, Illinois has had massive beer growth the last few years, with most of it coming in Chicago. A study performed in 2015 showed that Chicago craft brewers occupied more square feet of commercial real estate than those in any other city in the United States. The same study said Chicago had 144 craft breweries which is second only to Portland Oregon which had 196.
Chicago Metropolitan Area
Haymarket Pub and Brewery
Nice place with both inside and outside seating. It was surprising large once inside as there is a second room and bar in the back. It is in the West Loop which is a busy neighborhood with many bars and restaurants. We choose to walk from the loop, from just east of the river. Others may prefer to drive or take the Metro. Haymarket says they specialize in classic Belgian and contemporary American beer styles, however they had a wide offering of beer. Including the award winning The Defender American Stout. They had a large and excellent selection of craft beer; 16 of their own beers on tap, 9 guest beer on tap and another 80 or so bottles of craft beer. Yes, about 100 craft beers to choose from! They also have a full restaurant menu if you are looking to have dinner with your beer. Location: 737 West Randolph Street, Chicago Nearest Metro: Morgan Station, Green or Pink Line Updated Jun '16
|
Haymarket Taps
Haymarket Brewing Tanks
|
Revolution Brewing
This is a great place in the Logan Square neighborhood. It is just off the blue line on the north side of Chicago. It was busy with a high energy atmosphere, everyone seemed to be having a great time. Probably because they had some fabulous beer and good food. It is in a fun old building with a large bar in the center of the room. The brewery states it is Illinois' largest craft brewery and has been brewing beer since 2010. We went for dinner before we headed to an improve comedy show. The food was very good and the excellent wait staff also added to the evening. Location: 2323 North Milwaukee Avenue Nearest Metro: California Station, Blue Line Updated Jun '16
|
Revolution Brewery
|
Field Museum of Chicago
Acknowledging this is not a brewery, it is a unique opportunity. The Field Museum in Chicago has its own beer brewed by a local craft brewery. The beer is called "Tooth and Claw". It is named after the famous Tyrannosaurus Rex in the museum and is shown in the image on the bottle's label. It is a Czech styled Pilsner brewed by Off Color Brewing in Chicago. Good to see they had local guys brew it. You can get it in the cafe on the main floor. Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Drive Nearest Metro: Roosevelt Station, Green, Orange or Red Line Updated Jun '16 |
Tooth & Claw @ Field Museum
|
