Not long ago, Chicago was the nation’s brewing capital. But breweries are closing all over the city and suburbs.
In February and March alone, five local breweries announced immediate or imminent closures:
- Alarmist Brewing & Taproom in Sauganash
- Casa Humilde in Forest Park
- Flapjack Brewery in Berwyn is officially for sale
- Whiner Beer Co. in Back of the Yards (makers of Le Tub saison) closes March 29
- Illuminated Brew Works in Norwood Park closes June 28.
Meanwhile, two major breweries announced a merger: Half Acre Beer Co. and Maplewood Brewery & Distillery. However, they say both taprooms will remain open and flagship brews Daisy Cutter and Son of Juice IPA won’t change. (I love Daisy Cutter.)
All the news coincides with declining drinking rates nationwide and rising operating costs. (Aluminum tariffs skyrocketed last year.) Owners also blame a “saturated market.”
But here in Chicago, we love and appreciate the sheer number and diversity of breweries. These are some of our favorites.
Simone, City Cast Chicago Executive Producer
is/was brewing in Ravenswood is basically Simone’s second home. She’s there at least once a week playing games, and it's her friends' go-to gathering space. “There's always horror or Miyazaki on the TVs, they're often bringing in food trucks and pop-ups, and they've got reliable N/A options. I’ve also become quite the saison expert,” Simone says.
Jacoby, City Cast Chicago Host
Jacoby appreciates the beautiful brick of Monochrome Brewing in Pilsen: “The space is great for a chill day reading a book or a party with a mariachi band.”
Homewood Brewing Company, founded by the mother and brother of late Chicago artist Juice WRLD, is also a great meet-up according to Jacoby: “The food is worth the trip out south!”
Rick, Social Media Manager
Rick loves Brutalist Brewing Cooperative, a worker-owned brewery that opened just last year — especially its High Rise Farmhouse ale. The co-op brews out of Pilot Project Brewing, and there’s a release party for its Sicko Pils March 27.
The smashburger from Taco Sublime is super popular. (Emmi Mack / City Cast Chicago)
Michelle, City Cast Chicago Producer
Michelle appreciates the expansive beer menu at Marz Community Brewing Co. in McKinley Park — plus Taco Sublime operates inside. “They also have cantina night on Tuesdays where they play loteria!” Michelle says.
Emmi, Newsletter Editor — Wait, That’s Me!
With floor-to-celing windows, Solemn Oath in Logan Square is a sunny hang: great for reading during the week, plus there’s a classy pool table. (Be warned: it’s packed during weekend pop-ups.) Also, a pour of Lü Kölsch costs just $5!
