Chicago's vibrant craft beer scene is legendary, and finding the perfect spot to enjoy a pint can be overwhelming. This guide highlights 24 of the best beer bars in the city, categorized for easier navigation, ensuring you find your ideal drinking destination. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, this list will quench your thirst for discovery.
Dive Bars with Character: Chicago's Classic Beer Experiences
These bars offer a quintessential Chicago experience, blending great beer with a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.
1. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge: More than just a beer bar, The Green Mill boasts a rich history and a consistently great beer selection alongside its renowned cocktail menu. Their rotating taps often feature local favorites.
2. Simon's Tavern: A Lincoln Park institution, Simon's offers a cozy neighborhood vibe and an impressive beer list, featuring both domestic and imported brews. Their friendly staff adds to the charm.
3. Hopleaf Bar: Hopleaf is known for its extensive beer list, often showcasing unique and hard-to-find selections. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their impressive offerings. Their Belgian beer selection is particularly noteworthy.
4. The Violet Hour: While primarily a cocktail bar, The Violet Hour also carries a curated selection of craft beers that perfectly complement their sophisticated atmosphere.
Gastropubs: Where Food and Beer Meet
These establishments pair exceptional food with equally impressive beer selections.
5. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: This beloved spot combines delicious deep-dish pizza with their own craft beers. The combination is a Chicago classic.
6. Half Acre Beer Company: With its own brewery on-site, Half Acre offers a tasting-room experience with a menu focused on pub fare that complements their brews perfectly.
7. Revolution Brewing: Another local brewery with a spacious taproom, Revolution Brewing offers a range of beers, from their flagship brews to seasonal offerings. Their food menu is extensive and delicious.
Upscale Beer Experiences: Elevated Craft Beer Environments
These bars elevate the craft beer experience with refined settings and curated selections.
8. The Berghoff: A Chicago landmark, The Berghoff offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a selection of German beers and traditional German cuisine.
9. Public House: Located in Wicker Park, Public House features an upscale setting and a constantly rotating selection of craft beers, both domestic and international.
10. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This elegant steakhouse offers a carefully curated list of premium beers to pair with their exquisite menu.
11. RPM Italian: While known for its Italian food, RPM Italian also boasts a carefully selected wine list and an impressive beer selection, showcasing both local and imported options.
Brewery Taprooms: Direct from the Source
These taprooms offer the freshest beer straight from the source.
12. Goose Island Beer Company ( Clybourn): A Chicago brewing icon, Goose Island's Clybourn location offers tours and tastings alongside a wide selection of their beers.
13. Lagunitas Brewing Company: While not technically in Chicago, Lagunitas' taproom offers a fun and lively atmosphere with various beer styles.
14. Pipeworks Brewing Company: Known for its unique and experimental brews, Pipeworks' taproom is a must-visit for adventurous beer drinkers.
15. Off Color Brewing: This brewery focuses on unique and often quirky beers, and its taproom is a reflection of its creative spirit.
Beer Gardens: Outdoor Drinking Experiences
These spots offer the perfect setting to enjoy a beer outdoors.
16. Wrigleyville Beer Garden: Located near Wrigley Field, this beer garden is a lively spot, especially on game days.
17. Sheffield's Beer Garden: Another great option for outdoor drinking fun, Sheffield's offers a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of beer.
Hidden Gems: Undiscovered Beer Havens
These bars might be slightly off the beaten path but well worth the discovery.
18. Maplewood Brewery & Distillery: While technically a brewpub, Maplewood's focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques makes it a must-visit.
19. Begyle Brewing: This brewery focuses on traditional brewing styles, offering a great selection of classic and well-crafted beers.
International Beer Focus: Exploring Global Brews
These bars showcase a wide selection of international beers.
20. The Globe Pub: This classic pub offers a wide array of international beers, providing a taste of the world, one pint at a time.
21. Old Town Pour House: Known for its extensive beer list, Old Town Pour House features beers from around the world, categorized by style and country of origin.
Neighborhood Favorites: Local Beer Destinations
These bars are beloved by their neighborhood communities.
22. The Do-Rite Tavern: A neighborhood gem offering a more casual, relaxed atmosphere with a solid beer selection.
23. The Whistler: Located in Logan Square, The Whistler offers a unique blend of a bar, music venue, and beer garden.
24. Estereo: Located in Wicker Park, Estereo boasts a diverse drink selection, including a variety of great beers to match its diverse menu of globally inspired food.
Conclusion:
Chicago's beer scene is constantly evolving, but this list provides a great starting point for exploring the city's best beer bars. Remember to check websites for updated hours and beer selections, and most importantly, enjoy responsibly! Cheers!
