Micro Brew Me

I can honestly say I was not a drinker when I first moved to Chicago - that changed quickly. Not because of the stress or any negative reason, but because of a new found fondness of microbrews and craft beers. Too often people slam beer after beer and don’t appreciate the finer qualities such as color, head, aroma, and bouquet (the multiple favors, after taste, etc.). I know that I now sound like a beer snob, but going to a neighborhood bar and sitting outside in the warm summertime air, enjoying a great local brew is a fantastic experience. There are countless neighborhood pubs that make this experience possible – here are a few of my favorites that have taught me to drink less by drinking better.

The Map Room is a traveler’s themed tavern located in Bucktown, about a 15 minute taxi from the hotel. They take beer seriously and offer over 200 unique brands representing 36 different brewing styles from the U.S. and all over the world. You can choose from 26 beers on tap, cask-conditioned ale on handpump or one of their bottled beers. And if that isn’t enough, they have free Wi-Fi. The staff here is very knowledgeable and polite and will assist with any recommendations for the amateur and ignorant (as I am both). Try the Arcadia India Pale Ale - a well-balanced English-style IPA with a biscuity, nutty malt character, firm bitterness, and a floral hop aroma (dry-hopped with Columbus hops).

In layman’s terms, it’s really good stuff.


Goose Island Brewery is located in Lincoln Park along the North/Clybourn shopping area. This pub was started by brewmaster John Hall in May of 1988 and has quickly dominated the local scene and spread to over 15 states. Goose Island’s brewers craft a diverse selection of unique beers, seasonal brews, and have over 10 drafts to choose from every day. Besides the beers, they also serve outstanding lunch and dinner selections including their famous Stilton Burger. As you enter the restaurant, you can view the brewery equipment used to create each craft beer. On Sundays they also hold a tour that will take you inside the brewing process and allow you to sample six of their beers. My two favorite beers are the Summertime, colored just like sunshine with a light fruit taste, and 312 (Urban Wheat Ale), with aroma of Cascade hops is followed by a crisp; fruity ale flavor delivered in a smooth, creamy body.

Again, it’s really good stuff.


Lastly, the Matchbox in River West holds the title of most intimate bar in Chicago. Not in the romantic sense but because it is a bar with a dozen stools and that’s it. The building itself is unbelievably tight, with only a few inches separating the stools from the wall. If you are claustrophobic, sit outside on their large outdoor patio – which is the choice by many locals. The scene is incredibly diverse, you could be wedged next to a yuppie, an artist, a truck driver, an architect, a concierge or one of those lawyer types. This was my first experience at a microbrew. They serve over 35 different beers and are the main reason I got me hooked in the first place. If you get a little tipsy, head across the street to D’Agostino’s and get a slice of pizza.

So, remember to stop and enjoy each drink as if it was a cultural experience.

Drink less by drinking better.