Historic architecture and world-renowned cultural institutions aren’t the only things that define downtown Chicago. The heart of the city, made up of the Loop and South Loop, is a growing hub for local breweries that draw in everyone from after-work crowds to weekend visitors. Check out some of the top spots to try locally made craft brews near downtown.
Stop 1: Moody Tongue
Moody Tongue has long been a Chicago fixture, and their new South Loop brewery has put them in a league of their own. The refined space includes both a fine-dining restaurant and a more laid-back tap room. Head to The Bar to sample their regular beer lineup alongside limited releases like whiskey and wine barrel-aged brews and their renowned Farmers Market and sour beers. 2515 S. Wabash Ave.
Stop 2: Duneyrr Artisan Fermenta
In the South Loop neighborhood, the Duneyrr taproom brings Nordic-inspired brews to Chicago. Their wild ales are made with a hybrid of wine and cider techniques and ingredients, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind beverage. Don’t miss unique options like their Sauvyn Blanc sour ale, co-fermented with sauvignon grapes, or their Mymosa grape ale brewed with oranges and chardonnay grapes. 2337 S. Michigan Ave.
Stop 3: Adams Street Brewery
Adams Street Brewery is the in-house brewer at the historic Berghoff Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in Chicago. With three generations of brewing experience under their belts, the family-run brewery specializes in German-style ales, including lager, dunkel, and hefeweizen. Grab a stein (and maybe a soft pretzel) and taste the history. 17 W. Adams St.
Stop 4: Crushed by Giants
Just off Michigan Avenue, this independent craft brewery and restaurant serves up an ever-changing draft list featuring everything from hoppy IPAs to sours to funky saisons in the Streeterville neighborhood. The Crushed by Giants taproom, a modern space with soaring windows overlooking the surrounding cityspace, also offers a menu of simple but stellar dishes designed to perfectly pair with their brews. 600 N. Michigan Ave.
Stop 5: Eataly
Just down the street, the massive Italian gourmet market and grocer, Eataly, has a microbrewery and restaurant called Birreria (pub in Italian). If you’re lucky enough to snag a table (seating is limited and goes fast), you’ll be just 20 feet from the head brewer in action — he makes a killer IPA, by the way. Sip house-brewed craft ales, plus local and Italian beers, while snacking on cheese plates and Italian snacks. 43 E. Ohio St.
Looking for more craft breweries in Chicago? Try some new brews while exploring Chicago neighborhoods with these craft beer itineraries.
