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Cocktails and breweries

Made for those who appreciate the craft of a local brew but insist on having a full cocktail menu available at the same table.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Garage Band Brewing image 1
Garage Band Brewing image 2
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Wide open space with huge bar and patio seating creates a welcoming environment. Live music and pinball machines add lively entertainment. The atmosphere is comfortable and often crowded on weekends with a friendly, relaxed vibe.

Customized cocktails and home brewed beers stand out with a seasonal menu that changes regularly. Bartenders mix drinks in various ways to match different tastes, offering options like hard cider, seltzer, and unique brews.

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."

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

"The bartenders were so friendly and helpful with the drinks."

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.

02
Whiskey Hill Brewing Company / Production Facility & Private Event Space Only image 1

Brewery with beautiful interior and a dog-friendly patio creates a comfortable atmosphere. Mixed-age crowd brings high energy and lively vibe. Craft cocktails and great beer complement the inviting space.

Bartenders offer craft cocktails alongside a solid selection of brews. Sampling new drinks like the Dreamsicle cocktail is common here.

Craft cocktails stand out alongside a solid selection of beers. The brewery offers a great variety of brews with a well-crafted approach.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and unique."

"I enjoyed the small but nice selection of cocktails."

"I loved the barrel-aged beers at this brewery."

Good to know

1

Expect a $15 charge for a 4-ounce mixed drink.

2

The brewery offers a kids menu with pizza and other options.

3

Parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak hours.

03
Pilot Project Brewing - Wrigleyville image 1

Three-story brewpub offers spacious patio, cozy basement lounge, and rooftop bar with a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a heated tent, creating a comfortable space for gatherings. The vibe suits pre- and post-game crowds with a mix of casual and swanky areas.

Upscale cocktails stand out with unique flavors and an elevated approach compared to typical bar menus. The Devious Lounge offers a great spot for delicious and creative drinks.

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."

"I found the cocktails here to be delicious and unique."

"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.

04
Nightshade and Dark's Pandemonium Brewing image 1

Brewery combines live jazz, anime and Japanese films, and board games for a unique, eclectic vibe. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, inviting relaxation with friends. On-site brewing offers distinctive ales, including an Irish stout and a red beer with Earl Grey tea and plum.

Unique and scrumptious cocktails stand out alongside excellent and affordable beer. Interesting takes on classic cocktails offer a fresh twist on familiar flavors.

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."

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

"They had truly unique and scrumptious cocktails."

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.

05
Monochrome Brewing image 1

Spacious taproom with rustic aesthetic and varied seating options creates a comfortable, neighborhood-like vibe. Energy stays chill, with outdoor patio and food pop-ups adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Large projectors show sports, and the space welcomes dogs and outside food, fostering a strong community feel.

Offers a wide range of cocktails alongside beers and a guest tap. Cocktails include options like a draft paloma, all noted as delicious with good variety.

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."

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

"The cocktails here were outstanding and delicious."

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.

06
Homewood Brewing Company image 1

Spacious brewery with stylish decor and a laid-back charm combines a lively atmosphere and welcoming energy. Features include an open-air rooftop patio with a stunning mural, ping pong tables, and a photo booth. Serving robots add a unique touch to the modern, clean environment.

Unusual cocktails like beermosa and rum punch on tap stand out alongside classic options such as the French 75. A rooftop adds a nice spot for enjoying drinks in good weather.

Offers a variety of drinks with a smooth music backdrop and informative brewery tours. Food pairs well with drinks, featuring pub favorites and seasonal dishes that stand out from typical brewery fare.

People are saying

"I thought the food was excellent and properly cooked."

"The brewery's burger and fries were amazing."

"I thought the cocktails here were the best I've had in a while."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The kitchen closes at 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is ample and free for all customers.

07
Foreign Exchange Brewing Co. image 1

Brewery space combines indoor and outdoor seating with a fenced-in patio that welcomes families and groups. Atmosphere stays vibrant yet relaxed, featuring bright, clean decor and a friendly vibe. Beers showcase unique, flavorful brews alongside a menu of distinctive, well-crafted food options.

Options include blackberry mezcal and Ecto Cooler cocktails. Drinks cater well to non-beer drinkers.

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."

"They have delicious cocktails for non-beer drinkers."

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.

08
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub occupies a spacious second-floor spot with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with good music playing at a comfortable volume. Seating includes wide, cushioned bar stools that add to the relaxed vibe.

Chai cocktails stand out with their unique flavor. The menu includes Negroni and other classic options alongside draught beers and wines.

A modern, spacious brewery offers a relaxed vibe where city noise fades away. Food pairs well with the great service and overall ambience enhances the experience.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"I loved the great selection of beers on tap at this brewery."

"I had a few chai cocktails and they were delicious."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

09
Alulu Brewery and Pub image 1

Small brewery offers a creative, relaxed vibe with a perfect bar atmosphere and excellent beers like Czech pilsner and dark lager. Outdoor patio provides abundant seating and a charming, comfy space ideal for conversation. Neighborhood feel blends with on-point music and a casual, inviting energy.

Crafted cocktails stand out with unique flavors and beautiful presentation. The selection pairs well with a variety of beers, offering a great mix for different tastes.

A quaint brewery with an amazing selection of beer and a perfect bar vibe. The craft beers stand out alongside excellent staff and tasty beer cheese curds.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection to be great and excellent."

"The brewery here has a great, creative selection of beer."

"The cocktails here are yummy and unique."

Good to know

1

The brewery is open until 11:00 p.m. during the week.

2

Parking can be challenging on a Saturday; be prepared to walk a block or two.

3

Their menu has many specials, including 50% off wings every Tuesday.

10
Wolfden Brewing Company image 1

Large indoor space combines with spacious outdoor beer garden featuring a fire pit, stage, and dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual with low music volume, welcoming families and pets. Regular live music and craft fairs add to the friendly, community vibe.

Cocktails include a variety of tasty options alongside beer. Some drinks stand out, while others may not appeal to everyone.

A real brewery with a casual vibe serves consistently top-tier beer. It caters to hop heads, dark beer fans, and casual drinkers alike.

People are saying

"It's a great place to sit and enjoy some good beer."

"This brewery's beers are top-notch and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the dog-friendly beer garden with lawn seating."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, the burgers are half off.

2

Thirsty Thursday offers 1/2 pound hamburgers for 8 dollars.

3

The brewery is kid and dog friendly.

11
Ike & Oak Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub offers large bar, expansive patio, and live music that create a lively and noisy atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating accommodate both casual hangouts and business gatherings. TVs and shuffleboard add to the versatile entertainment options.

Draft cocktails come in plenty of varieties alongside great beer options. Every customer finds a beer or cocktail to suit their taste with seasonal specials adding variety.

A diverse selection of beer styles includes nitro and aged selections. The brewery features a huge bar, plenty of open seating, a lively atmosphere, and a great outdoor space with TVs for games.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and knowledgeable about the beer."

"The Brewery's artisan beers were diverse and all tasted great."

"I loved the variety of cocktails and beer options available."

Good to know

1

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

2

The upstairs meeting area is great for business meetings or private events.

3

Dogs are allowed on the side patio area.

12
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Premium cocktails here taste sublime and offer good value compared to upscale bars. Specialty and new drinks, including a toasted marshmallow cocktail, stand out for their quality and flavor.

A large, clean brewpub offers a fantastic selection of beers alongside solid food. The atmosphere suits larger group meetups with phenomenal service and an inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"The brewery offers a solid lineup of fresh, enjoyable beers."

"Their specialty cocktails were fantastic and sublime."

Good to know

1

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

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

13
BuckleDown Brewing image 1

Brewery offers a cozy, dark atmosphere with friendly, relaxed vibes and a quaint setup. It features board games, pinball machines, and kid-friendly activities alongside a small outdoor area. Beers include bright, hazy IPAs and creative lagers, with local pizza partnerships enhancing the experience.

Offers a wide variety of rotating and staple brews alongside custom and craft cocktails. Mixed drinks and craft cocktails are consistently available and worth trying.

Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a cute, quaint setup. The brewery feels welcoming and comfortable for all ages.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the solid, tasty beers here."

"The beers here are so good, especially the IPAs."

"They offer some really good craft cocktails worth trying."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The brewery is family-friendly with a box of toys for kids.

3

Dogs and smoking are not allowed on the premises.

14
Whiskey Hill Brewery & Kitchen- Westmont image 1

Modern interior features chandeliers, unique seating, and views of brewery tanks. Atmosphere feels vibrant and comfortable, with a mix of sports TVs and live music. Seating options vary widely, including outdoor areas and private rooms, though some booths feel cramped.

Cocktails include unique choices alongside craft beers. The Noir East blends dill and mint for a fresh summer vibe. The Return of the Don serves citrusy refreshment in elegant glassware.

Bright, welcoming space features natural light and greenery hanging from the ceiling. Offers a diverse selection of craft beers alongside cocktails, with in-house food and attentive staff.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, especially the smokey wings and ribs."

"The interior's cool with chandeliers and unique seating."

"You'll love the diverse New American and brewpub cuisine at this Brewery."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stops serving food at 9 pm on Fridays.

2

Expect a $130 average bill for two entrees and an appetizer.

3

The brewery is located next to the Westmont Metra station.

15
Hillgrove Tap image 1
Bar & grill

Large outdoor patio and indoor seating create versatile spaces with live music enhancing the atmosphere. Loud music inside can make conversation difficult, while the patio offers a more comfortable vibe. Craft beer selection and authentic food options stand out alongside multiple TVs showing sports.

Craft cocktails stand out with a fabulous mix and well-curated beer and spirits selection. Wine options complement the craft cocktail offerings well.

Offers a tasty brewpub experience with a German flair. Focuses more on being a restaurant than a traditional brewery.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well prepared."

"I thought this was possibly the best brewery I have ever been to."

"The cocktails were speedy, though the bartender was stretched thin."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with half-price drinks and appetizers.

2

Live music occurs on select Fridays, check the schedule for details.

3

Special events like beer or wine pairing dinners are offered periodically.

16
One Lake Brewing image 1

Rooftop patio offers a beautiful city view and a lively atmosphere. Space feels open concept but can get noisy, especially with large groups. Beer selection includes some in-house brews with mixed reviews on quality.

Options include wine, cocktails, and ciders at reasonable prices. Some cocktails come across as weak while others pair well with beer.

A low-key local brewery with a solid presence in the neighborhood. Offers a good option but many better brewpubs exist within a 10-mile radius.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and enjoyable."

"I found this to be a great local brewery."

"The cocktails here offer a beautiful city-like view."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features half-price bottles on Thursdays.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly with fun entertainment.

3

Extra charges apply for toppings on burgers, like a $2 upcharge for cheese.

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