Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in Illinois? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer in Chicago and the rest of Illinois so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Illinois, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Prairie State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#10 Riverlands Brewing Company

Riverlands Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in St. Charles, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Riverlands Brewing Company:

1. Location: Riverlands Brewing Company is situated in St. Charles, a suburb of Chicago in Kane County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Riverlands Brewing Company was founded in 2017 by Eric Bramwell and Steve Miller. The brewery was established with the mission of creating high-quality and innovative craft beers for the local community.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Riverlands Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and craftsmanship. They focus on using premium ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful brews.
4. Beer Selection: Riverlands Brewing Company offers a wide variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create distinctive and memorable beers.
5. Taproom Experience: Riverlands Brewing Company operates a taproom at their facility in St. Charles, providing a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom often features a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as special events, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Riverlands Brewing Company distributes their products to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, Riverlands Brewing Company is known for its dedication to brewing high-quality and innovative craft beers and its commitment to providing a memorable beer-drinking experience for its patrons. They have quickly become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#9 Whiskey Hill Brewing

Whiskey Hill Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Westmont, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Whiskey Hill Brewing:

1. Location: Whiskey Hill Brewing Company is situated in Westmont, a suburb of Chicago in DuPage County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Whiskey Hill Brewing Company was founded in 2016 by Brian Taylor and John Stanczykiewicz. The brewery was established with the goal of creating high-quality and innovative craft beers for the local community.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Whiskey Hill Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and craftsmanship. They focus on using premium ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful brews.
4. Beer Selection: Whiskey Hill Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create distinctive and memorable beers.
5. Taproom Experience: Whiskey Hill Brewing Company operates a taproom at their facility in Westmont, providing a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom often features a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as special events, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Whiskey Hill Brewing Company distributes their products to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, Whiskey Hill Brewing Company is known for its dedication to brewing high-quality and innovative craft beers and its commitment to providing a memorable beer-drinking experience for its patrons. They have quickly become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#8 Foreign Exchange

Foreign Exchange Brewery is a craft brewery located in Aurora, Illinois. Here’s an overview:

1. Location: Foreign Exchange Brewery is situated in Aurora, a suburb of Chicago in Kane County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Foreign Exchange Brewery was founded by Dave Johnson and Tavian McKenna. The brewery opened its doors in 2016 with the mission of creating high-quality and innovative craft beers.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Foreign Exchange Brewery is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and craftsmanship. They focus on using premium ingredients and precise brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful brews.
4. Beer Selection: Foreign Exchange Brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create distinctive and memorable beers.
5. Taproom Experience: Foreign Exchange Brewery operates a taproom at their facility in Aurora, providing a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom often features a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as special events, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Foreign Exchange Brewery distributes their products to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, Foreign Exchange Brewery is known for its dedication to brewing high-quality and innovative craft beers and its commitment to providing a memorable beer-drinking experience for its patrons. They have quickly become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#7 Mikerphone Brewing

Mikerphone Brewing is a popular craft brewery located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Mikerphone Brewing:

1. Location: Mikerphone Brewing is situated in Elk Grove Village, a suburb of Chicago in Cook County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Mikerphone Brewing was founded by Mike Pallen in 2015. Mike Pallen, a former musician, combined his passion for music and brewing to create Mikerphone Brewing, which quickly gained recognition for its innovative and creative approach to brewing.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Mikerphone Brewing is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of high-quality and flavorful beers that blend elements of music and brewing. They focus on using premium ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create unique and memorable brews.
4. Beer Selection: Mikerphone Brewing offers an extensive lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged brews. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations inspired by music.
5. Taproom Experience: Mikerphone Brewing operates a taproom at their facility in Elk Grove Village, providing a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom often features music-themed decor and events, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Mikerphone Brewing distributes their products to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois and other states. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, Mikerphone Brewing is known for its dedication to brewing high-quality and innovative beers that celebrate the intersection of music and brewing. They have quickly become a beloved fixture in the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#6 Hubbard’s Cave Brewery

Hubbard’s Cave Brewery is a craft brewery based in Niles, Illinois. Here’s an overview:

1. Location: Hubbard’s Cave Brewery is located in Niles, a suburb of Chicago in Cook County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Hubbard’s Cave Brewery was founded by Drew Fox in 2015. Drew Fox is also the founder of 18th Street Brewery, located in Gary, Indiana.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Hubbard’s Cave Brewery is known for producing a wide variety of beer styles, with a particular focus on hop-forward ales, stouts, and barrel-aged beers. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create flavorful and unique brews.
4. Beer Selection: Hubbard’s Cave Brewery offers an extensive lineup of beers, including hazy IPAs, double IPAs, pastry stouts, and barrel-aged beers. They are known for their bold and flavorful beers, often featuring unique ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
5. Taproom Experience: While Hubbard’s Cave Brewery primarily focuses on production and distribution, they occasionally host special events and releases at their facility in Niles. Visitors to the taproom can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and sample a rotating selection of beers.
6. Distribution: Hubbard’s Cave Brewery distributes their beers to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois and other states. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their high-quality and innovative brews.

Overall, Hubbard’s Cave Brewery is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity in brewing. They have become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#5 More Brewing Company

More Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located in Villa Park, Illinois. Here’s an overview of More Brewing Company:

1. Location: More Brewing Company is situated in Villa Park, a suburb of Chicago, Illinois. Villa Park is located in DuPage County, just west of Chicago.
2. Founding: More Brewing Company was founded by Shaun Berns, Evan Morris, and Joe Formanek. The brewery opened its doors in 2017 and has quickly become a prominent player in the Illinois craft beer scene.
3. Brewing Philosophy: More Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of high-quality beers that showcase creativity, innovation, and quality craftsmanship. They focus on using premium ingredients and brewing techniques to create beers with bold flavors and aromas.
4. Beer Selection: More Brewing Company offers an extensive lineup of beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and barrel-aged brews. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create distinctive and memorable beers.
5. Taproom Experience: More Brewing Company operates a taproom at their facility in Villa Park, providing a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a modern and industrial-inspired design with communal seating, a bar area, and often hosts events such as beer releases, live music, and food trucks.
6. Distribution: In addition to serving beer at their taproom, More Brewing Company distributes their products to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, More Brewing Company is known for its dedication to brewing high-quality and innovative beers and its commitment to providing a memorable beer-drinking experience for its patrons. They have quickly become a beloved fixture in the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#4 Phase Three Brewing

Phase Three Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in Lake Zurich, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Phase Three Brewing:

1. Location: Phase Three Brewing Company is situated in Lake Zurich, a suburb northwest of Chicago, Illinois.
2. Founding: Phase Three Brewing Company was founded by Shaun Berns, Evan Morris, and Adam Mizrahi in 2019. Despite being relatively young compared to some other breweries, Phase Three has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, sought-after beers.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Phase Three Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers with a focus on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques to create beers with bold flavors and aromas.
4. Beer Selection: Phase Three Brewing Company offers a rotating lineup of beers, with a particular emphasis on hazy IPAs and double IPAs. They are known for their creative and innovative approach to brewing, often experimenting with different hop varieties and brewing processes to create unique and memorable brews.
5. Taproom Experience: While Phase Three Brewing Company primarily focuses on production and distribution, they occasionally host special events and releases at their facility in Lake Zurich. Visitors to the taproom can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and sample a rotating selection of beers.
6. Distribution: Phase Three Brewing Company distributes their beers to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their exceptional beers and commitment to quality.

Overall, Phase Three Brewing Company is known for its dedication to producing high-quality, hop-forward beers and its commitment to innovation in brewing. They have quickly become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer scene and continue to attract attention for their exceptional offerings.

#3 Energy City Brewing

Energy City Brewing is a craft brewery located in Batavia, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Energy City Brewing:

1. Location: Energy City Brewing is situated in Batavia, a suburb of Chicago located in Kane County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Energy City Brewing was founded in 2017 by David Files. The brewery has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality and innovative beers.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Energy City Brewing is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and consistency. They focus on using premium ingredients and brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful brews.
4. Beer Selection: Energy City Brewing offers a wide variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged brews. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor combinations to create distinctive and memorable beers.
5. Taproom Experience: While Energy City Brewing primarily focuses on production and distribution, they occasionally host special events and tastings at their facility in Batavia. Visitors to the taproom can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and sample a rotating selection of beers.
6. Distribution: Energy City Brewing distributes their beers to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their unique and high-quality offerings.

Overall, Energy City Brewing is known for its commitment to quality, creativity, and innovation in brewing. They have become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer community and continue to attract attention for their exceptional beers.

#2 Hop Butcher for the World

Hop Butcher for the World is a well-known craft brewery located in Chicago, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Hop Butcher for the World:

1. Location: Hop Butcher for the World is based in Chicago, the largest city in Illinois and a major cultural and economic hub in the United States.
2. Founding: Hop Butcher for the World was founded in 2015 by Jeremiah Zimmer and Jude La Rose. The brewery has quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional hop-forward beers with bold flavors and aromas.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Hop Butcher for the World is dedicated to brewing hop-centric beers that showcase the diverse range of flavors and aromas that hops can impart. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create unique and memorable brews.
4. Beer Selection: Hop Butcher for the World offers a rotating lineup of beers, including IPAs, double IPAs, pale ales, and experimental brews. They are known for their creative and adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with different hop varieties and brewing processes to create distinctive and flavorful beers.
5. Collaborations: Hop Butcher for the World frequently collaborates with other breweries and businesses in the craft beer industry. These collaborations allow them to share ideas, techniques, and ingredients, resulting in exciting and innovative beer releases.
6. Distribution: While Hop Butcher for the World primarily serves beer at their taproom in Chicago, they also distribute their products to bars, restaurants, and specialty bottle shops throughout Illinois and select locations in other states. Their beers are highly sought after by craft beer enthusiasts and often sell out quickly upon release.

Overall, Hop Butcher for the World has become a beloved fixture in the Chicago craft beer scene, known for its exceptional hop-forward beers, creative collaborations, and commitment to quality and innovation.

#1 Afterthought Brewing Company

Afterthought Brewing Company is a well-regarded craft brewery located in Lombard, Illinois. Here’s an overview of Afterthought Brewing:

1. Location: Afterthought Brewing Company is situated in Lombard, a suburb of Chicago in DuPage County, Illinois.
2. Founding: Afterthought Brewing Company was founded by Mike Thorpe in 2017. Despite being relatively young compared to some other breweries, Afterthought has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, traditional Belgian-style and mixed fermentation beers.
3. Brewing Philosophy: Afterthought Brewing Company specializes in brewing traditional Belgian-style ales and mixed fermentation beers. They focus on using traditional brewing methods and quality ingredients to create balanced and complex flavors in their beers. The brewery is known for its attention to detail and commitment to producing beers of exceptional quality.
4. Beer Selection: Afterthought Brewing Company offers a variety of Belgian-style ales and mixed fermentation beers, including saisons, farmhouse ales, sour ales, and barrel-aged beers. They often incorporate unique ingredients and aging techniques to create distinctive and flavorful brews.
5. Taproom Experience: While Afterthought Brewing Company primarily focuses on production and distribution, they occasionally host special events and tastings at their facility in Lombard. Visitors to the taproom can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and sample a rotating selection of beers.
6. Distribution: Afterthought Brewing Company distributes their beers to select retailers and bars throughout Illinois. They have gained a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts for their unique and high-quality offerings.

Overall, Afterthought Brewing Company is known for its commitment to traditional brewing methods and its focus on producing high-quality Belgian-style and mixed fermentation beers. They have quickly become a respected member of the Illinois craft beer community.