If you're like me then you're REALLY picky when it comes to beer. Frankly, I prefer craft beer from a local brewery. These are some of the best craft breweries in Chicago but there are so many so this might be part 1!
4. Pilot project brewery
I was only going to have a top 3 but wanted to mention this one. Pilot Project is more of a tap house that features different breweries that are just starting. It's a different take on a brewery as they curate rather than create. Pilot Project acts as a testing ground for homebrewers and startups, or even a platform for established breweries to experiment. It's a cool concept and perfect for anyone looking to try something they've never had before. They also feature a scratch kitchen led by Javier Ayala, serving up some fresh sandwiches! It's a cool place to chill and try some new beers.
3. Eris Cider House
I was drawn to this one when I first started trying beer because I liked cider better than beer. It's a modern cider house with a fresh spin on typical bar food. They have various activities like Bingo and Trivia throughout the week so check their website for special events. I like their pedestrian cider, it is a bit on the drier side so keep that in mind, and their blush is good too. They also offer some non-alcoholic options for anyone doing dry January! I recently went and they had a harvest salad with butternut squash and pumpkin seeds and it was SO GOOD. It’s currently still on their menu but it might be seasonal. Someone at the table next to us had the bang bang brisket sando and that sounds and looks amazing. I am absolutely trying that next time. We also tried the donuts, which were warm and delicious! Eris also has a beautiful patio so definitely try to check this place out during patio season in Chicago (the best season IMO)
2. Ravinia - One piece references
We found this brewery by accident because we were driving down Diversey one day, turns out we love it! They have an amazing lunch special: 2 tacos and a side of chips and guac for 10 bucks, can't beat that! Plus there are a few One Piece references in the menu so if anyone is a fan of the anime, you’ll appreciate that. I recommend the chorizo and pineapple tacos. You wouldn't think it works but it does! I also enjoyed the guava weiss they had on tap. They're open at 11 am so you can enjoy that lunch special and they offer Sunday brunch starting at 9 am. If you're looking for an awesome craft beer and taco spot, that’s the best one!
1. Old Iriving Brewery
Where to begin? We LOVE Old Irving. The food, the atmosphere, the beer! So first the food. They have typical gastropub/bar food but they kick it up a notch by having a burger of the week, wing flavor of the week, and mac and cheese of the month. The brisket nachos are one of our faves and it's definitely enough for 2 or 3 people. We also love their beer cheese sauce made with their signature Della Klosch beer, who wouldn't love that? As for beer, personally, I love their cushy fruited sour ales but their seasonal beers are great too! This year they brewed 5 different milk stouts and they all tasted different but so good. My favorite was the Krampus Fireside. You could actually taste the marshmallow and vanilla. They open daily at noon and dinner time is tough to get a table since they don’t take reservations so get there early because this is definitely a must-try!
So, whether you're a beer connoisseur or a casual enthusiast there is something for everyone. Next time you are in the Windy City check out one of these amazing breweries!
Until next time!
xoxo
Sam
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