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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Illinois

Breweries

Made for those who treat a brewery visit as a serious pursuit of craft beer.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sturdy Shelter Brewing image 1
Sturdy Shelter Brewing image 2
Sturdy Shelter Brewing image 3
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Bright, open brewery in a historic building offers unique brews like mango-lime-jalapeรฑo and imperial stout. Cozy seating nooks and board games create a community feel. Friendly, lively atmosphere with live music and food trucks makes it ideal for private events along the Fox River.

A beautiful and cozy brewery with a wide range of quality beer options. It offers standout service and works well for private events along the Fox River.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their great beer; every single one was delicious."

"It's a beautiful and cozy spot with nooks for hanging out."

"This brewery has some of the best craft beer I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The brewery does not accept cash; only credit cards are accepted.

2

There are food trucks available on weekends for dining options.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday evening and is a fun event.

02
Demo Brewing Company image 1

Former garage space offers an industrial and intimate setting with full garage doors opening outside. Small batches of beer rotate often, creating a variety of brews in a dog friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Cozy spot invites groups for board games and comfortable seating.

Feels like a garage party with a chill, dog friendly vibe. Brews small batches that rotate often, offering a variety of beers and styles on a quiet street with plenty of parking.

People are saying

"It felt like coming over to a friend's place for a beer."

"It's so dog friendly, they really make you and your dog feel welcome."

"I haven't had a bad beer here; the brewery brews smaller batches that rotate frequently."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for customers and available on weekends.

2

Demo Brewing Company is dog friendly, so feel free to bring your pet.

3

You can bring your own food or have it delivered as they don't serve food.

03
Foreign Exchange Brewing Co. image 1

Brewery offers a diverse beer menu with limoncello ale and hazy IPAs. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a fenced-in patio perfect for families. Bright, clean decor creates a friendly vibe alongside distinctive food options.

A diverse beer menu features limoncello ale, hazy IPAs, and English pub beer. The taproom offers a great space to enjoy porters, stouts, and winter beers.

People are saying

"I found the beer here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The brewery's food is delicious, especially the smash burgers and quesabirria tacos."

"These Wisconsin Cheese Curds melt in your mouth, lightly breaded and crispy."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Monday at 7pm.

2

Parking behind the brewery is reserved for tenants; do not park there.

3

Free parking is available nearby the brewery.

04
is/was brewing image 1

Spacious taproom offers cozy indoor seating and a large outdoor garage area. Creative saison beers shine alongside guest drafts. Friendly vibe welcomes families and dogs, with fun skeeball games and rotating food trucks adding to the chill atmosphere.

Focus centers on a creative and focused saison menu featuring bright, drinkable Franco-Belgian styles. The taproom offers a good selection of guest drafts and maintains a comfortable ambiance without feeling overcrowded.

People are saying

"Their saison and wild beers are complex and nuanced."

"Their inventive brews offer unique, earthy complexity with a clear finish."

"This brewery is all about inventive saisons and mixed fermentation beers."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a fun host.

2

Bingo events are held every Thursday night for community engagement.

3

Follow their Instagram for updates on special food pop-ups.

05
Suncatcher Brewing image 1

Renovated service station hosts a cozy woodstove and lively plants inside. Brewery offers solid drink selection beyond typical styles. Large, dog-friendly patio with fire pit creates a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere shifts from warm to loud when busy.

A chill spot with excellent service and a solid drink selection that goes beyond just big NEIPAs and stouts. It adds a fresh vibe to the local brewery scene.

People are saying

"The beer here is great, and the staff are super friendly."

"I loved the massive, laid-back patio with a fire pit."

"The brewery staff were super friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Suncatcher Brewing has a Bring Your Own Food (BYOF) policy.

2

Food trucks visit on weekends, offering a variety of options.

3

Suncatcher Brewing allows dogs on the patio.

06
Goose Island Taproom image 1

U-shaped bar made from reclaimed wood creates a playful, laid-back vibe perfect for socializing. Brewery tours reveal the full process, while the taproom offers barrel-aged dark beers and outdoor seating. Specialty brews add a unique touch to the experience.

The brewery offers a fantastic tour that covers the entire production process. The taproom features outdoor sidewalk seating and serves all standard beers plus exclusive varietals, especially barrel-aged dark beers.

People are saying

"The beer tour guides are knowledgeable and share great stories."

"The bar staff here is so kind and knowledgeable."

"The brewery tour here is fun, informative, and led by a great guide."

Good to know

1

The brewery tour costs $15 per person and lasts over an hour.

2

Bingo events are held regularly, providing a fun community experience.

3

Participate in March Madness promotions for a chance to win prizes.

07
Hop District Community Brewing Co. image 1

Spacious interior and large bar seating create a welcoming spot for locals. Variety of brews keeps the taps fresh and interesting. Families enjoy the fenced-in patio and casual games in the back lounge.

A variety of brews fills the taps, offering more than just one style. The atmosphere feels like a true neighborhood brewery with a family friendly vibe and a crowd of real people.

People are saying

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome with their friendly energy."

"The patio is great for visiting and has comfy seating."

"The staff at this brewery makes you feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available on weekends for added dining options.

2

Hop District hosts various fun events and game nights throughout the week.

3

You can order food from the Italian restaurant next door for delivery.

08
Broken Tee Brewing Company image 1

Brewery shines with a rotating beer selection and exceptional food. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly beer garden. Welcoming vibe suits families with games and arcades.

Offers a rotation of beer options that keeps choices fresh. Serves exceptionally good food for a small brewery. Welcomes families and fits well into local beer tours.

People are saying

"I loved their IPAs and other great beer options."

"It's a family friendly place with games, arcades, and board games."

"The brewery's IPAs were especially loved and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday and Thursday at 8pm.

2

Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to find a spot.

3

The brewery is family-friendly and welcomes children.

09
Riverlands Brewing Company image 1

Brewery shines with quality stouts and a vibey taproom. Outdoor patio offers a laid back vibe with local art and live music. Food trucks and sports screens add energy and variety to the space.

Offers a vibey taproom with chill outdoor seating. Known for quality stouts and a standout vibe among local breweries.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their well-crafted and flavorful beer."

"The outdoor patio is nice and relaxing."

"The beer here is top-tier, flavorful, and really tasty."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food into the brewery.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Friday nights, but service is quick.

3

Food trucks are available on-site when the weather is nice.

10
Goldfinger Brewing Company image 1

Spacious taproom offers indoor and outdoor seating with a lively patio and games like darts. Known for smooth lagers and ciders, it hosts food trucks regularly. Atmosphere stays laid-back and inviting, welcoming singles, couples, and families alike.

Offers a strong selection of lagers and ciders with a taproom featuring both indoor and outdoor seating. Food trucks visit regularly, making it a versatile spot for singles, couples, and families.

People are saying

"Their lagers are smooth, flavorful, and award-winning."

"This brewery's lagers are some of the best I've ever tasted."

"The outdoor patio is a great place to relax when the weather is nice."

Good to know

1

The brewery specializes in European lagers and does not serve IPAs.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the brewery.

3

The brewery is conveniently located near the Metra station.

11
Fibs Brewing image 1

Cozy brewery offers unique atmosphere and a cool patio with ample seating. Laid-back vibe welcomes dogs and chill crowds. Quirky decor adds charm to this tiny taproom in an industrial setting.

A cozy brewery with a unique and inviting atmosphere welcomes guests warmly. A cool patio with ample seating offers a relaxed spot to enjoy the brews.

People are saying

"The beer here is fantastic and well-crafted."

"There's plenty of ample outdoor seating available."

"The beers here are fantastic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Fibs Brewing is open five days a week, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Expect around 10 beers on tap, offering a variety of styles.

3

There is plenty of covered outdoor seating available.

12
Black Horizon Brewing Company image 1

Offers awesome beers with a relaxed vibe and friendly patrons. Features fruit-infused sours and barrel-aged stouts for variety. Supports food trucks and local delivery, making it a casual hangout with games like pinball.

An amazing selection of awesome beers defines this brewery. The perfect vibe complements the quality, making it a standout spot in the Chicago area.

People are saying

"The beers here are excellent with a great variety."

"This brewery has an amazing variety of fantastic beers."

"It's so dog friendly; they were incredibly accommodating."

Good to know

1

Parking is small and limited.

2

The brewery is dog and kid friendly.

3

You can bring your own food.

13
Adams Street Brewery image 1

Wood-paneled sports bar with a large warm wood bar offers a laid-back vibe and 14 taps of German-style craft beers. Polka music and live shows create a German Beer Hall feel, while TVs provide casual entertainment. Brewery burger pairs well with beer to go.

Craft beers focus on German styles with 14 taps and avoid typical IPAs. The brewery operates on-site with a large, warm wood bar and offers beer to go alongside quality food like the brewery burger.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great German-style beers here."

"It's a cozy brewery with a laid-back vibe."

"I had one of the best Angus beef burgers Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect busy times during holidays; reservations are not required.

2

Pickpocketing incidents have been reported, so keep personal items secure.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for purchases.

14
Phase Three Brewing Company - Taproom + Kitchen image 1

Taproom blends modern design with a sunlit space and eclectic decor for a chill vibe. Offers a huge selection of beers including stouts and IPAs, paired with gourmet eats. Large bar and outdoor garden provide lively and quiet seating options.

Huge selection of beers on tap and in bottles includes stouts, IPAs, and barrel-aged stouts. The taproom feels like a restaurant and offers gourmet quality eats alongside excellent beer choices.

People are saying

"The beer here is industry best, especially the hazy IPA."

"I found the food here to be delicious and immaculate."

"The brewery's beer offerings were phenomenal and great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for lunch on busy Saturdays.

2

Expect a 15-minute wait during peak hours.

3

The menu features multiple Filipino dishes and ingredients.

15
Brothership Brewing image 1

Trendy brewery offers barrel-aged stouts and IPAs with a chill vibe. Families enjoy big TVs for sports and lively music. Bringing your own food adds to the relaxed, upbeat atmosphere.

A cool themed brewery and bar sits in a nice neighborhood. Patrons can bring their own food while enjoying a selection that many consider excellent.

People are saying

"I loved their craft IPAs and experimental brews."

"The brewery's beers, especially the IPAs and sours, were top notch."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Limited time fall treats are available for a short period.

3

The brewery allows patrons to bring their own food.

16
Pilot Project Brewing - Wrigleyville image 1

Three-story brewpub features a spacious patio and a cozy basement lounge for varied vibes. Quality brews shine with a solid selection that pairs well with food. Rooftop bar and heated outdoor seating create a fun, relaxed atmosphere perfect for game crowds.

Drinks stand out more than the food here. The brewery offers a solid selection with a focus on quality. Food complements the drinks but does not overshadow them.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and offers great vegetarian options."

"The outdoor seating has great beer and delicious food options."

"The Brewery staff was personal, friendly, and tremendous."

Good to know

1

The Devious Lounge is only a two-minute walk to Wrigley Field.

2

They offer a variety of great beer options and plenty of appetizers.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet.

17
Rabid Brewing image 1

Spacious taproom offers a cozy vibe with eclectic decor and friendly faces. Bold sours and unique seasonal brews highlight the experimental beer selection. Live music plays softly, creating a chill atmosphere where everyone feels like a local.

Nestled in an office park, this brewery offers a one of a kind experience where everyone knows your name. It feels like a local spot right down the street with a cool, welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the creative and quality beer here."

"The pizza here is great, and the staff makes you feel right at home."

"This brewery's creative beers are bold, smooth, and highlight quality."

Good to know

1

Rabid Brewing hosts card and board games on specific days.

2

The Feast of the Goat Queen 2024 is in July, featuring a lively atmosphere.

3

Rabid Brewing welcomes gamers any day of the week.

18
Lake Effect Brewing Company image 1

Cozy brewery offers a spacious patio with shaded, pet-friendly seating. Enjoy a chill atmosphere and a small but tasty beer selection featuring pale ales and refreshing wheat options. Perfect for a relaxed neighborhood hangout with your pupper.

Cozy neighborhood vibe with a pupper friendly atmosphere and a lovely outdoor patio. The taproom offers a fun setting with tasty beer options and potential to grow as a local spot.

People are saying

"I loved the creative, special brews and the watermelon wheat beer."

"The outdoor seating is spacious and has a great patio."

"The Brewery's patio is a great spot to relax with friends."

Good to know

1

The brewery hosts weekly food pop-up options from local restaurants.

2

The patio is pet and kid-friendly, featuring games and shaded seating.

3

They offer a limited selection of about five beer options.

19
Monochrome Brewing image 1

Spacious taproom offers a rustic aesthetic and varied seating for comfort. Craft beer lovers enjoy chill vibes with good music and large projectors showing sports. Outdoor patio and food pop-ups create a relaxed atmosphere welcoming dogs and outside food.

Excellent vibes fill the brewery with good music and well-placed speakers. It welcomes craft beer lovers and allows bringing your own food or ordering in, creating a chill spot for friends, family, and pets.

People are saying

"Their beer selection is amazing, especially the IPAs."

"It's a relaxed spot with a welcoming, community vibe."

"Their Mexican lager is crisp and light, and the michelada is perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Monochrome Brewing allows bringing your own food, making it a great spot for picnics.

2

Parking is easy with ample free street parking available nearby.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pets along.

20
Burning Bush Brewery image 1

Enjoy craft beer from many taps in a dog friendly taproom with live music and river views. The space feels warm and inviting, perfect for relaxing with friends or family. Outdoor seating and a chill vibe make it a local favorite.

Craft beer flows from a wide selection of taps in a dog friendly and warm inviting taproom. Live music plays while guests enjoy BYO food and pizza in a space with standout artwork and a lively vibe.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer they served."

"You can bring your dog inside; it's super dog friendly."

"The brewery staff were super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The brewery is dog-friendly, allowing pets inside.

2

They allow you to bring your own food.

3

The venue has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

21
Roaring Table Brewing Co. image 1

Industrial, modern space offers a cozy couch area and a small beer garden for relaxation. Beers with citrus notes pair well with creative Detroit and NY style pizzas. A solid northwest suburbs brewery with a clean taproom and multiple seating options.

A smaller brewery in a strip mall with a clean taproom and multiple seating options. It stands out as a solid choice in the northwest suburbs.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was amazing."

"I thought their NY style pizza was the best around here."

"The beers here are outstanding and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The brewery allows food delivery even though they don't have a full menu.

3

You can get $2 off pints on Sundays.

22
Garage Band Brewing image 1

Wide open space with a huge bar and patio seating creates a welcoming vibe. Known for its friendly atmosphere, the brewery draws crowds with live music and pinball machines. Comfortable and lively, itโ€™s a top local spot.

Known for its friendly atmosphere, this brewery offers a welcoming space with a strong local reputation. It stands out as one of the best breweries in the area.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer and solid options."

"They planned my party with exceptional attention to detail."

"The beer at this brewery is great and the vibe is good."

Good to know

1

Garage Band Brewing hosts Yahtzee night every Wednesday at 7pm.

2

You can bring your pets to Garage Band Brewing, both inside and outside.

3

The brewery allows outside food, so you can bring BBQ from the nearby restaurant.

23
Nightshade and Dark's Pandemonium Brewing image 1

Brewery serves unique ales like Earl Grey plum red beer and Irish stout. Live jazz and Japanese films create a laid-back vibe. Board games add fun, making it a welcoming spot for friends to relax.

Lots of options include a red beer with Earl Grey tea and plum for a unique taste. The brewery offers lots of seating and a small separate cafe to satisfy hunger.

People are saying

"I loved all the unique beers I tried here."

"The food from the taco truck was great."

"I thought the brewery's beers were really original and creative."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a lively atmosphere.

2

Live big band performances occur on Sunday nights, attracting a good crowd.

3

The brewery allows BYO food, making it budget-friendly for snacks.

24
Bubblehouse Brewing Company image 1

Large indoor space offers a family-friendly atmosphere with unique beer styles on tap. Outdoor patio shines with sun shade covers and string lighting, perfect for socializing. Regular live music and board games keep the vibe lively and casual.

Offers a family-oriented atmosphere with a wide flavor spectrum on tap. Features unique beer styles not commonly found in many breweries and includes a party room for gatherings.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is excellent and always moving."

"I loved the live music and the friendly atmosphere here."

"The brewery's beers were excellent, creative, and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the front, but more is available in the back.

2

The venue allows outside food since they do not serve food on-site.

3

Bubblehouse Brewing Company hosts various events and activities throughout the week.

25
Brother Chimp Brewing image 1

Modern rustic brewery offers unique brews like tropical hazy IPAs and West Coast styles. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating creates a friendly atmosphere with live music and food trucks. Strong LGBT support adds to the welcoming vibe.

Unique brews with styles rarely seen at other breweries stand out here. The taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere and shows clear support for the LGBT community.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great variety and quality of the beer here."

"The live music here is always great."

"The brewery has an excellent and delicious beer selection."

Good to know

1

Live music and food trucks are available on Friday evenings.

2

Trivia nights occur on Tuesday and Wednesday at 7pm.

3

Brother Chimp Brewing allows you to bring your own food.

26
Nik & Ivy Brewing Company image 1

Locally owned brewery serves unique craft brews with rotating taps. Live music and well-maintained pinball machines create a chill vibe. Space feels family-friendly with kids playing games nearby.

A locally owned brewery with a good selection of beer taps that rotate regularly. Offers a variety of well-brewed beer uncommon among small breweries.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious craft beer here."

"The pinball machines here are in great condition and cost $1."

"The brewery's beers are delicious and well-brewed."

Good to know

1

Nik & Ivy Brewing Company hosts live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Tickets for the comedy show on February 13th, 2026, are available for purchase now.

3

Free parking is often available nearby, but it can be limited during busy hours.

27
Kinslahger Brewing Company image 1

Brewery shines with handmade lagers crafted by a passionate team. Taproom blends historic touches and a chill vibe that sparks great conversations. Prices stay reasonable, and outside food is welcome, making it perfect for relaxed socializing.

Focus centers on lagers crafted by a small, kind team showing clear passion for their work. The taproom features historic touches and fosters engaging conversations among beer enthusiasts.

People are saying

"The beer here is amazing and well worth a taste."

"The beer at this Brewery is incredible and delicious."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food to enjoy with your drinks.

2

Half pours are available for half the price of regular beers.

3

Prices for drinks are very reasonable compared to other local spots.

28
Skeleton Key Brewery image 1

Spacious brewery shines with hop-forward Pilsners and unique ales. Skeleton-themed art and a family room create a welcoming environment. Live jazz and rotating food trucks keep the vibe lively and diverse.

Offers phenomenal beer with a focus on high-quality brews and innovation. Hosts diverse musical talent and events, including collaborations for customized beers and celebrations like Oktoberfest.

People are saying

"I loved their flavorful pale ale, it was so easy to drink."

"The bar area was perfect for our party of 90 people."

"The people at this brewery make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Skeleton Key Brewery hosts diverse musical talent and excellent events.

2

The brewery is 21+ only after 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

There is a large free parking area around the brewery.

29
Werk Force Brewing Co. image 1

Family-owned brewery shines with high-quality beers like BA stouts and IPAs. Food here is surprisingly good, making it a great spot to eat and chat. Enjoy the dog-friendly patio with live music in a laid-back, friendly space perfect for families.

Family-owned brewery focuses on high-quality products and takes time to educate customers. Food exceeds expectations for a brewery, creating a nice spot to talk or listen to music.

People are saying

"I loved the great selection of beers, especially the stouts."

"The outdoor patio is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the weather."

"I considered it one of the best breweries in the Chicago area."

Good to know

1

Dogs are not allowed in the brewery due to kitchen policies.

2

Food is available from a small kitchen, and the menu can be accessed online.

3

Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially on Thursday evenings.

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