Food & Drink

Cheers to These 13 Craft Beer Bars in the Windy City!

Chicago is a city that's synonymous with great beer. From the city's early days as a hub for breweries, to the current boom in craft beer, Chicagoans have long enjoyed a good brew.

And with so many great craft beer bars in the city, it's no wonder that Chicago is a destination for beer lovers from all over the world.

Whether you're a fan of IPAs, stouts, or sour beers, you'll find plenty of options at the best craft beer bars in Chicago. These bars offer a wide selection of local and regional beers, as well as brews from around the world.

And with knowledgeable staff and comfortable settings, these bars are the perfect place to enjoy a pint with friends or family.

If you're looking for a great craft beer bar in Chicago, you'll be spoiled for choice. From cozy neighborhood bars to sprawling beer halls, there's a bar to suit every taste and budget.

And with so many great options, you'll be sure to find a new favorite spot to enjoy a cold one. So come on in, pull up a stool, and join us as we explore the best craft beer bars in Chicago.

1. The Beer Temple

The Beer Temple
3173 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 (Google Maps)

The Beer Temple is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. Their extensive selection of microbrews on tap and in bottles is unparalleled.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming and relaxed environment.

The bar and bottle shop offer a wide range of options for both amateurs and connoisseurs alike.

The absence of food and TV is not missed, as patrons can order in and enjoy the company of fellow beer enthusiasts. The Beer Temple is truly a beer lover's paradise.

2. Beermiscuous

Beermiscuous
2812 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 (Google Maps)

Beermiscuous is a craft beer bar and cafe that offers over 300 craft brews, both in-store and to-go.

They have a great selection of local and regional craft beers, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The ambiance is cozy, with free-to-play board games and comfortable seating areas.

Customers must wear masks when ordering from the bar, and the staff takes Covid-19 restrictions seriously.

Beermiscuous is a great spot to hang out with friends or go on a casual date. They also offer free WiFi, making it a great place to work remotely.

3. Long Room Chicago

Long Room Chicago
1612 W Irving Park Rd #1, Chicago, IL 60613 (Google Maps)

Long Room Chicago is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. With a large selection of rotating beers on tap, this bar offers something new and exciting every time you visit.

The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making for a welcoming atmosphere.

The attached biscuit place also offers great food options to complement your drinks. Don't miss out on the cozy yet exciting atmosphere and live music in the game room.

This hidden gem is perfect for gathering with friends or enjoying a solo drink at the bar.

4. Old Town Ale House

Old Town Ale House
219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610 (Google Maps)

Old Town Ale House is a must-visit spot for craft beer lovers. The dimly lit dive bar is adorned with unique and somewhat risque artwork, giving it a distinct character.

The bartenders are friendly and quick to serve up a great selection of local craft beers.

While there is no food menu, customers are welcome to bring their own or grab a bite nearby. The cash-only policy might be a bit inconvenient, but it adds to the charm of this historic bar.

With its laid-back vibe and old-school jukebox, Old Town Ale House is a great spot to unwind and enjoy a cold brew.

5. Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar

Maria's Packaged Goods And Community Bar
960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar is a hidden gem for craft beer lovers. With a large selection of local Midwest beers on tap, this bar offers an all-in-one package deal with an attached liquor store upfront.

The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.

The bar also serves signature cocktails and classic bar drinks. The nearby food options are great, and patrons can even order from on-site delis.

The only downside is that the bar can get crowded on weekends. However, the friendly staff and knowledgeable bartenders make it worth the visit.

6. Navigator Taproom

Navigator Taproom
2211 N Milwaukee Ave #100, Chicago, IL 60647 (Google Maps)

Navigator Taproom is a craft beer bar with a unique twist. Customers are allowed to pour their own beer, which is a fun experience.

The bar has an excellent selection of beers that are constantly being rotated.

Customers can also bring food from nearby restaurants to enjoy with their drinks.

Navigator Taproom is a great spot for a casual night out with friends.

7. Map Room

Map Room
1949 N Hoyne Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (Google Maps)

Map Room is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. With over 200 global beers on offer, this travel-themed bar boasts an impressive selection of brews from around the world.

From regional breweries to microbrews and imports, you'll find it all here.

The bar has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind with friends or catch up on some reading from their collection of travel books.

The knowledgeable bartenders are always happy to help you find the perfect beer to suit your taste. If you're looking for a unique and memorable drinking experience, Map Room is the place to be.

8. Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap

Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
1460 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642 (Google Maps)

Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap is a must-visit craft beer bar in the city. With over 15 taps and a range of interesting liquors, this taproom offers an excellent selection of beers.

The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, engaging with customers to describe the beer styles, history, and ingredients.

The atmosphere is chill, with a great patio area and comfortable indoor seating. The beer is excellent, ranging from traditional styles to fun and flavorful porters and stouts.

This is definitely a place to go if you're looking for a unique craft beer experience.

9. Old Irving Brewing Co

Old Irving Brewing Co
4419 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60641 (Google Maps)

Old Irving Brewing Co is a must-visit craft beer bar. With an impressive selection of beers and delicious food, this brewery is perfect for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.

The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The industrial yet cozy atmosphere is great for larger groups or a night out with friends.

Don't miss out on trying their homemade ginger beer and the flavor of the week/month foods. Parking can be a bit of a hassle, but it's definitely worth the visit.

10. The Booze Hound

The Booze Hound
3734 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641 (Google Maps)

The Booze Hound is a cozy craft beer bar that offers a surprisingly good beer selection at great prices.

The friendly and quick service makes it a great spot to stop by after a Cubs game.

The bar has a great atmosphere and the locals and regulars make it feel like home. The dive bar is also dog-friendly and has darts, TV's, and cheap beer.

The Booze Hound is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a lowkey place to relax and drink.

11. O's Tap

O's Tap
2044 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (Google Maps)

O's Tap is a craft beer bar that offers a great selection of local beers. The staff is friendly and welcomes dogs on the patio.

The bar has a warm and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.

They have live music events and a pool table for entertainment. Prices are fair and the outdoor seating area is perfect for all seasons.

O's Tap is a great spot for beer lovers looking for a chill and welcoming environment.

12. Clark Street Ale House

Clark Street Ale House
742 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654 (Google Maps)

Clark Street Ale House is a must-visit for beer lovers. This craft beer bar boasts an impressive collection of ales, IPAs, lagers, and Belgian ales.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they go out of their way to help customers find the perfect beer. The bar is pet-friendly, making it a great spot to hang out with furry friends.

The atmosphere is casual, and the bar has a cozy patio for outdoor seating. The absence of a kitchen is not a problem as customers can bring in food from local vendors.

With its extensive beer list and welcoming atmosphere, Clark Street Ale House is a great spot to enjoy a cold brew.

13. One City Tap

One City Tap
3115 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60608 (Google Maps)

One City Tap is a craft beer bar that offers a great selection of beers, including local brews.

The friendly bartenders are knowledgeable about the drinks they serve and can mix up a mean cocktail. The bar has a cool and relaxed vibe, with good music and TV screens showing sports.

It's a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy some drinks. The bar also offers karaoke and loteria for those who want to have some fun.

With its convenient location near public transportation, One City Tap is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.