When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Adams Street Brewery
Why Adams Street Brewery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Adams Street Brewery stands out as a vibrant and historic gathering spot in the heart of Chicago's Loop. Located within the iconic Berghoff Restaurant, this family-owned brewery honors over 135 years of brewing heritage dating back to 1887, when Herman Joseph Berghoff founded the original brewing company. The brewery offers patrons a wide selection of craft beers brewed fresh on-site, ensuring unparalleled freshness with a tank-to-tap experience. Their beer lineup is diverse, featuring classic German lagers like Dunkel and Hefeweizen as well as rotating offerings including Pilsners, Sours, Ales, and Stouts. Visitors can enjoy their favorites by the pint, sample through flights, or embrace German culture with traditional liter steins and take-home Royal Pints. Beyond the impressive beer selections, the brewery’s location within the Berghoff Restaurant also offers a rich atmosphere filled with vintage décor, historic bar elements, and a menu featuring classic German dishes alongside contemporary American cuisine. This rich blend of history, quality brews, and inviting ambiance makes Adams Street Brewery a perfect place for friends to meet, relax, and savor both beer and food in a uniquely Chicago setting.
Here's what people think of Adams Street Brewery
As of recent, Adams Street Brewery holds a 4.6-star rating based on 157 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Adams Street Brewery for its exceptional beer quality and inviting atmosphere. Many guests highlight the excellence of traditional German favorites on the menu, such as schnitzel and creamed spinach, which pairs perfectly with their freshly brewed beers. Reviewers appreciate the brewery’s commitment to serving fresh craft beer brewed right on-site, noting that the tank-to-tap freshness significantly enhances the taste experience. The service is frequently described as friendly and attentive, enhancing the welcoming environment for both locals and visitors. Patrons also commend the brewery for retaining the historic charm of the original Berghoff space, with many appreciating the vintage décor and the unique connection to Chicago’s rich brewing history. Positive mentions often include the rotating beer styles and creative brews, alongside the consistent availability of popular German lagers. On the other hand, some negative feedback stems from occasional beer selections being unavailable, such as the Hefeweizen brew reported as tapped out during a visit. A few reviews mention that while the atmosphere and food are excellent, the brewery can get busy, which might affect seating availability or speed of service during peak times. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore that Adams Street Brewery excels at blending tradition, quality, and hospitality, making it a beloved spot to enjoy craft beer and classic cuisine in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kevin Hwang
This brewery offers a delightful experience for those looking to enjoy special beers along with light meals. The award-winning selection of craft beers is impressive, showcasing a variety of unique flavors that cater to different palates. Each sip reveals the dedication to quality and creativity in brewing. The casual atmosphere is perfect for relaxing with friends or family, and the food pairs wonderfully with the beers, making it a great spot for a laid-back outing. Whether it's a quick bite or an afternoon of tasting, this brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Jeffrey Stephen Parker
Brewery: Adams Street Brewery City: Chicago IL Brewed on premise: Yes Number of taps: 14 Number of bottles/cans: 0 Guest Beer: No Bar seating: 23 Table seating: Yes Patio: No Beer garden: No Food: Yes also Berghoff Restaurant Food Trucks: No Dogs Allowed: No Televisions: 3 in bar Beer to go: Yes Liquor: Yes full bat Wine: Yes Tony: Yes Why would I come back: With a history stretching back to 1870, and being boistered by the Chicago World Fair having a pint at The Adams Street Brewery in the Berghoff Restaurant is a must stop for beer and history lovers. Extensive list of beers with a focus on German Styles, but really something for everyone (even an award winning juicy IPA). Great food in a beautiful restaurant with plenty of old country feel. Beautiful large wood bar is warming and welcoming when you need to duck in from the bitter wind. Beers are tasty and you will not be disappointed you stopped by. @adamsstreetbrewery @berghoffchicago @brewersassoc @homebrewassoc @touchdownbrewery #ParkerPose #BeerLife #BeerLove
Theresa Barclift
Had an early dinner there around 3:30 on a Friday before the Metallica concert. I had a beyond the horizon beer it was pretty good and the Italian salad for my main dish. It was delightful! Very good and well played. Sean had the hot corner beef, it was good but kinda of plain might have needed some horse radish.
Malcolm Earhart
German style brewery although it felt more generic tourist trap. The beers are decent, I've had better Vienna lagers. The pretzel while big wasn't great either. It was kind of soggy like they didn't cook it long/hot enough. I just had a couple of mostly standard beers. The Joose was a nice drinkable hazy. I came early so it was just a couple late lunchers, but I'm sure this place gets busy and loud.
Robbie Stage
Really cool brewery/restaurant with some historical significance as well. My wife and I both enjoyed all the beers we had and thought it was really cool this is where Chicago's first liquor license was issued. We sat at the bar and the service great. She brought us samples of anything we wanted to try before ordering. We didn't eat, but the food looked great. Will definitely head back when I'm in Chicago again!
How to reach Adams Street Brewery
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Website: None
Why Adams Street Brewery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Adams Street Brewery with your friends? Because this historic brewpub offers an unmatched blend of tradition, community, and craft beer excellence that makes for a perfect gathering spot. Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, Adams Street Brewery is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a celebration of over 130 years of brewing heritage tied to the iconic Berghoff family. This family-owned brewery serves up the freshest beers brewed in-house, guaranteeing quality and authenticity that craft beer fans deeply appreciate. The warm, inviting atmosphere paired with a diverse selection of German-style lagers, ales, stouts, and rotating seasonal brews means there’s something to please everyone in your group, whether you are a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker. Add to this its central location in downtown Chicago, accessible and steeped in local culture, and you have a perfect venue to reconnect, relax, and create lasting memories with friends or family. The combination of history, flavor, and convivial spirit makes Adams Street Brewery a top contender for your next meetup.
What activities make Adams Street Brewery ideal for a group meetup? The brewery isn’t just about the beer—it offers a full experience that encourages socializing and enjoyment. Firstly, the beer itself invites exploration; guests can sample a tasting flight, allowing everyone to try a variety of the brewery’s core and seasonal beers such as the Lager, Dunkel, Amber, IPA, and Hefeweizen. This creates an engaging way to share tastes and opinions with your group. Secondly, the brewery’s space is housed within the Berghoff Restaurant’s main floor, a historic and spacious venue that exudes charm and character, perfect for groups who want an authentic Chicago feel. The environment lends itself to relaxed conversation and celebration. Additionally, the brewery features a German-inspired menu with appetizers and smaller dishes tailored to complement its beers, providing a communal dining experience that enhances group bonding. Events and occasional special beer releases add another layer of excitement that can make a visit even more memorable. With friendly, family-oriented staff who pride themselves on loyalty and service, groups can expect attentive hospitality, making every gathering feel special.
Why is Adams Street Brewery’s location a key factor for group gatherings? Its position in downtown Chicago’s Loop is a major convenience and attraction. Located at 17 W Adams Street, it’s easily accessible by public transit or on foot for locals and visitors alike, encouraging casual and spontaneous meetups. Being in the bustling heart of the city means your group can enjoy the vibrant energy of Chicago before or after your brewery visit, offering opportunities for other nearby activities such as dining, shopping, or sightseeing. The brewery’s historic setting inside the Berghoff Restaurant—an establishment with roots dating back 120 years—adds cultural and architectural interest, elevating the meetup beyond just food and drinks. Groups appreciate that the venue combines old-world charm with modern craft beer innovation, reflecting a unique Chicago identity. The space is suited to accommodate varying group sizes while maintaining an intimate feel, ideal for both small friend circles and larger family or office gatherings.
What makes the beer experience at Adams Street Brewery unique for groups? The brewery boasts a tradition and expertise originating from the legendary Berghoff Brewing Co., giving each beer crafted here an authentic taste of Chicago’s rich brewing history. Because Adams Street Brewery brews its beer on-site, customers enjoy exceptional freshness delivered “Tank to Tap,” a phrase highlighting that the beer is served directly from the tanks where it is made. For groups, this means the assurance of top-quality brews that aren’t available just anywhere. The brewery’s beer menu is diverse, featuring not only classics like German lagers but also inventive seasonal variations such as sours, stouts, and ales, catering to different palates within a group. Moreover, drinkers can opt for traditional liter steins for a communal, festive vibe or choose a more casual pint. To extend the enjoyment beyond the visit, their “Royal Pints To-Go” allow guests to share the Adams Street experience at home. This variety and authenticity enrich the social aspect of any meetup by offering unique beer conversations and shared tasting adventures.
How does the food complement the group experience at Adams Street Brewery? The culinary offerings are designed to enhance the flavors of the brewery’s beer selections and to accommodate social dining, which is ideal when meeting with friends or family. The menu highlights German-inspired dishes alongside approachable American fare, including appetizers and smaller plates perfect for sharing or pairing with different beers. This facilitates a relaxed, communal atmosphere where groups can nibble and chat without the pressure of formal dining. The food emphasizes quality ingredients and traditional recipes, resonating with the brewery’s overall historic and authentic theme. Whether you’re grabbing a bite between flights of beer, looking for a casual lunch or dinner, or indulging in a leisurely meal, the food here supports conviviality and comfort. This makes Adams Street Brewery a well-rounded venue where both drink and dining experiences contribute to a memorable group outing.
Why is the atmosphere at Adams Street Brewery perfect for creating lasting memories? The brewery thrives on its sense of family and tradition, offering a welcoming environment that feels inclusive and warm. The staff’s dedication to excellent service and friendliness makes groups feel like part of the extended Berghoff family, turning casual visits into personal experiences. Architecturally, the brewery preserves the historic design and charm of the Berghoff space while adapting to modern needs, which provides a unique backdrop for gatherings. The overall vibe encourages conversation, laughter, and connection with ample seating and a layout conducive to both intimate chats and lively group celebrations. Being the only brewery in Chicago’s Loop also lends a special exclusivity to the experience, making your meetup feel like a noteworthy event rather than a simple bar visit. This blend of history, hospitality, and atmosphere ensures that gatherings here resonate emotionally and socially long after the visit ends.
How can Adams Street Brewery accommodate different group sizes and needs? Whether you’re planning a small gathering of close friends or a larger event with family or coworkers, Adams Street Brewery is equipped to handle a variety of group configurations. The spacious layout in the Berghoff Restaurant’s main floor offers flexible seating arrangements to provide comfort and privacy as needed. For those interested in something more private or specialized, the venue also supports private dining inquiries, which can be useful for celebratory meetups or business socials seeking exclusivity. The diverse beer options, food menu, and friendly service mean groups with differing tastes and preferences can all find something enjoyable without compromise. The brewery’s reliable hours—open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.—also allow scheduling flexibility, making it easier to plan group meetups that fit everyone’s availability. This adaptability solidifies Adams Street Brewery not only as a great casual hangout but as a venue capable of delivering an organized and seamless group experience.
What makes Adams Street Brewery a culturally rich spot to share with friends? Rooted deeply in Chicago’s brewing lineage dating back to 1887, the brewery is more than a casual destination; it is a living piece of the city’s history. Being housed in the Berghoff Restaurant, a Chicago landmark with a family legacy spanning over 130 years, means your meetup happens in a place full of stories and tradition. This cultural connection adds depth to your gathering, transforming it into a meaningful occasion where guests can appreciate and discuss the local heritage as they enjoy their food and drink. Moreover, the brewery’s specialty in German-style beers reflects the ethnic history influential in Chicago, giving groups an authentic taste of the region’s immigrant brewing culture. Sharing this context with friends or family enriches conversations and bonds, making Adams Street Brewery a venue that blends heritage with hospitality for a uniquely Chicago social experience.
How does Adams Street Brewery support ongoing engagement and repeat visits for groups? The brewery fosters a loyal community through continual innovation and connection. With rotating beer styles and seasonal special releases, guests have new tastes to discover on each visit, keeping meetups fresh and exciting. Updates on current beers on tap encourage groups to plan return outings to explore new offerings together. The availability of flights supports tasting and comparing, which is an excellent activity to share among both novice and experienced beer drinkers. Additionally, the brewery’s customer-centered attitude, family values, and commitment to quality create a positive impression that people want to repeat and recommend. In combination, these factors encourage groups to choose Adams Street Brewery not only for one meetup but as a go-to destination for gatherings that grow in meaning and enjoyment over time. The space, history, and brews make it a place guests want to keep coming back to share great moments.