Chicago's vibrant beer scene is legendary, boasting a diverse range of breweries and pubs catering to every taste. From cozy neighborhood dives to upscale gastropubs, the city offers an unparalleled experience for craft beer enthusiasts. This guide highlights 24 of the best beer bars in Chicago, categorized for easy navigation. Finding your new favorite spot just got a whole lot easier. This list showcases the best beer bars in Chicago, ensuring you discover the perfect place for your next pint.
Exploring Chicago's Diverse Beer Scene: Styles and Neighborhoods
Chicago's beer culture is incredibly diverse, reflecting the city's multifaceted character. You'll find everything from traditional Irish pubs serving classic lagers to trendy gastropubs showcasing rare and experimental brews. The city's diverse neighborhoods each have their own unique brewing and drinking establishments, offering a range of atmospheres and experiences.
Finding Your Perfect Pint: Types of Beer Bars
- Gastropubs: These upscale establishments combine fine dining with extensive beer selections, often featuring local craft brews on tap.
- Dive Bars: These are the classic neighborhood hangouts; they usually feature a more laid-back atmosphere and a solid selection of beers.
- Beer Gardens: Perfect for warmer months, these outdoor spaces often have a lively atmosphere and offer a wide selection of beers.
- Breweries with Taprooms: Many Chicago breweries have their own taprooms, allowing you to sample their beers directly from the source.
Top 24 Beer Bars in Chicago: A Curated Selection
This list organizes the best beer bars by neighborhood, highlighting their unique character and offerings. Remember to check websites for updated hours and special events.
Lincoln Park & Lakeview
- The Hopleaf: Known for its vast selection of Belgian beers, this is a must-visit for serious beer aficionados. They have over 200 bottles and a rotating tap list featuring both classic and rare finds. (Gastropub)
- Simon's Tavern: A neighborhood staple with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of local and international beers. (Dive Bar)
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: This brewery offers delicious pizzas alongside its own craft beers, making it a great place for a casual meal and drinks. (Brewery with Taproom)
Wicker Park & Bucktown
- Big Star: Known for its tacos and extensive selection of tequila, Big Star also boasts an impressive beer list. (Gastropub)
- The Violet Hour: This speakeasy-style bar features a curated cocktail menu, but their beer selection is also noteworthy, featuring both well-known and hard-to-find beers. (Speakeasy/Gastropub)
- Maplewood Brewery & Distillery: This brewery and distillery offers a taste of both their craft beers and spirits, making it a unique experience. (Brewery with Taproom)
Logan Square
- Revolution Brewing (Logan Square): This is one of Chicago's leading breweries, with a large taproom featuring a variety of their own innovative brews. (Brewery with Taproom)
- The Whistler: This popular bar features an impressive craft beer selection, alongside a diverse calendar of events. (Dive Bar/Gastropub blend)
Wrigleyville
- The Cubby Bear: This iconic Wrigleyville bar is a great place to catch a game and enjoy a classic beer selection. (Dive Bar)
- Dimo's Pizza: A Chicago classic that offers a great selection of beer paired perfectly with their excellent pizza. (Pizza place with a good beer selection)
River North & Downtown
- RPM Italian: This upscale restaurant has a refined beer list, showcasing both domestic and imported selections. (Upscale Restaurant with beer)
- Chicago Athletic Association Hotel: This historic hotel's bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a carefully chosen beer menu. (Upscale Hotel Bar)
Pilsen
- El Cid: A Pilsen institution, El Cid offers a wide range of beers alongside delicious Mexican food. (Mexican Restaurant with a good beer selection)
Other Notable Mentions:
- Half Acre Beer Company: Another excellent Chicago brewery with a popular taproom.
- Pipeworks Brewing Company: Known for its creative and often bizarre beer labels, Pipeworks' beers are as interesting as their branding.
- Off Color Brewing: This brewery focuses on unique and experimental beers.
- Goose Island Beer Company: While a larger brewery, Goose Island remains a Chicago staple and is worth checking out.
- Empirical Brewery: Emphasizes experimental brewing and collaborations.
- Marz Community Brewing: This brewery focuses on approachable and drinkable styles.
- Whiner Beer Company: This smaller brewery offers unique and high-quality brews.
- Mikerphone Brewing: Focused on both creative styles and classic lagers.
- Phase Three Brewing: This brewery focuses on brewing interesting and experimental styles of beer.
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria (Wicker Park): Another location of this popular brewery, offering the same great combination of pizza and beer.
- Old Town Ale House: This cozy pub offers a classic feel and a good selection of beers.
Conclusion: Cheers to Chicago's Beer Scene!
This list is just a starting point for your exploration of Chicago's incredible beer scene. With so many fantastic options, you're sure to find your new favorite haunt. So grab your friends, explore these top beer bars in Chicago, and experience the city's vibrant brewing culture firsthand. Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy the journey!
