When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Beermiscuous
Why Beermiscuous is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Beermiscuous is an exceptional craft beer cafe located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, known for its unique concept blending the relaxed vibe of a coffee shop with the excitement of a craft beer haven. Rather than a typical bar, it offers an inviting atmosphere where patrons can order from over 400 different beer brands, including 16 on draft and around 250 to 325 locally brewed options. This makes it a perfect place to meet up with friends, explore diverse beer flavors, and enjoy an easy-going environment equipped with free Wi-Fi, communal tables, and semi-private event spaces. The venue is managed by expert 'beer-istas' who are highly knowledgeable in craft beer, enhancing the customer experience. Whether guests want to create their own flight of beers or mix variety six-packs to go, Beermiscuous presents a curated, approachable, and friendly place to unwind. The cafe is also known for its personalized service such as curated beer cases, an engaging rewards program, and special events, making it even more appealing for gatherings and celebrations. Its convenient hours, including evening availability and weekend services, add to its appeal as a go-to destination for casual socializing or intimate meet-ups in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Beermiscuous
As of recent, Beermiscuous holds a 4.7-star rating based on 688 reviews.
Customer reviews of Beermiscuous reflect a strong appreciation for the wide selection of craft beers and the welcoming atmosphere. Many patrons highlight the extensive variety—over 400 brands—and the knowledgeable staff who make the experience insightful and enjoyable. Positive reviews commonly praise the curated flights and personalized six-packs, ease of use for beer exploration, and the overall vibe that feels more like a casual cafe than a traditional bar. The free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating arrangements also contribute to making it a great place to hang out with friends. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with service speed or crowding during peak times, which can affect the relaxed ambience. A few customers also note the pricing, which while reasonable for a specialty craft beer spot, might be on the higher side for some. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback and awards like the Travelers’ Choice demonstrate that Beermiscuous is a beloved local destination for craft beer enthusiasts looking for a friendly, well-curated environment to enjoy time with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Max C
Great beer selections in the fridges. Good draught offerings as well. The place is popular! I bought 2 bottles to go and one of them was like a volcano when I opened it the following day.. Not sure if there are any quality standards, but my wallet wasn't that happy..
Pj
I stopped by this bar near where I live because a few friends recommended it, and I’m glad I did! They have a fantastic selection of draft beers, including a lot of great local options. The vibe here is awesome – super relaxed with both comfy couches and table seating. It’s the perfect spot to hang out, chat with friends, and even play some games they have available. Plus, the prices for drinks are reasonable. I’ll definitely be back for another round!
Elizabeth Martinez
Beermiscuous is a chill spot in Lakeview that blends the vibe of a coffee shop with the variety of a craft beer bar. I dropped about $25 on a flight of four 4oz pours and a couple of cans from their massive cooler selection—seriously, they have over 350 options, with a strong focus on local brews . The staff, or "beeristas," were super helpful in guiding me through the choices, making the experience approachable even for a casual beer drinker like me. The atmosphere is relaxed, with comfy seating and free Wi-Fi, making it a great place to hang out or even get some work done . Only downside? It can get a bit noisy during peak hours, especially on weekends. Still, if you're looking to explore a wide range of beers in a laid-back setting, this place is worth a visit.
Maggie Olson
Best place to build a six pack in the area - with a nice discount for taking beer to-go. I wish the seating were more comfortable and it was a cozier place to hang out with friends. It's altogether too dark to play games in, even though they have a well stocked shelf of board games. Friendliest bartenders around, an incredible beer selection with only local brews. a must visit for beer aficianados!
Tim Langer
Worst customer service ever. I had noticed a barrel aged stout on tap, and posted closing time of 10pm. I arrived at 9:31pm, walked in, and was promptly told “there’s no way I’m serving you.” I said I was from out of town, flying out the next day, and would finish the beer in 10 min. I was then told last call was at 9:30, so apparently I was 1 minute late. I could have had the beer I wanted, enjoyed it, and been out of there well before closing time. But the bartender clearly had no interest in gaining a new customer. Terrible.
How to reach Beermiscuous
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Why Beermiscuous may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Beermiscuous with your friends? Because it’s not just a beer bar—it’s a vibrant social hub where beer lovers and casual drinkers alike can come together in an inviting, cozy atmosphere to enjoy an exceptional variety of craft beers. With a stellar 4.7 rating from nearly 700 reviews, Beermiscuous has earned a reputation as one of Chicago’s premier spots for group gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual meetup, or just want to unwind after a long week, this place offers more than just drinks: it offers an experience. From its extensive selection of local and international brews to the warm, dog-friendly environment, it’s designed to make every guest feel welcome and engaged. You can even bring your own food or order in, making it perfect for groups with diverse tastes and dietary needs. The staff’s expertise in helping you explore their vast beer offerings turns a simple night out into a shared journey of discovery. Simply put, if you want a place that combines charm, top-notch beer, and an atmosphere that fosters social connection, Beermiscuous is where you want to be.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Beermiscuous? While Beermiscuous shines primarily as a craft beer bar, its activities extend well beyond just drinking. The venue's intimate, laid-back setting encourages chatter and socializing among friends in both small and large groups, making it ideal for lively conversations or quieter catch-ups. The bar hosts regular beer tastings and curated case selections, allowing groups to sample carefully chosen assortments of beers tailored to their preferences, perfect for the exploratory beer drinker in your party. The newsletter and social media pages keep patrons updated on special events, new beer stock, and unique offers, enriching the experience with fresh reasons to return. Guests often bring in their own meals or order pizza from nearby restaurants like La Gondola, turning Beermiscuous into a customizable dining and drinking space. Plus, the staff’s approachable expertise is an activity in itself—helping guide your tasting adventure with recommendations based on your group’s unique tastes and curiosity.
Why is Beermiscuous perfect for hosting a group meetup? The bar’s layout and operational style are thoughtfully aligned with group needs. It has spacious seating and a welcoming ambiance that ensures your party can gather comfortably without feeling cramped or rushed. Beermiscuous offers private event bookings, complete with buyout options that allow exclusive use of the full bar space to host memorable celebrations or corporate meetups. There’s generous staff support for these events, including handling deposits and incorporating gratuity into the hosting tab to simplify logistics. Accessibility is also a priority; both Chicago and Highwood locations feature wheelchair-accessible amenities, showing they consider all guests’ comfort. Its hours, typically open well into the night and on weekends, accommodate varied schedules, letting your group find the perfect time to rally together, whether for an after-work wind-down or weekend celebration. And because Beermiscuous is dog friendly, it’s inclusive for groups who want to bring along furry friends, adding a unique touch to your meetup.
What is the beer selection like at Beermiscuous, and why does it appeal to groups? The bar specializes in a wide and original beer lineup combining local craft brews and international selections that appeal to both new beer drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs. From flavorful dark Mexican lagers to hoppy IPAs and innovative experimental brews, the menu, which often includes curated cases, encourages exploration and discovery. This vast variety ensures that every member of your group can find something to enjoy, from pale ales to richer stouts, enhancing the communal experience by sparking conversations about flavors and favorites. The knowledgeable beeristas at Beermiscuous curate these selections with care, often responding to customer style requests and helping groups navigate the sometimes intimidating craft beer landscape. The ability to sample different beers in a single visit fosters a sense of adventure and shared exploration, making each meetup both delicious and educational. Moreover, the option to take curated cases home at a discount means your group can continue the beer enjoyment beyond the bar.
How does Beermiscuous accommodate different tastes and dietary needs during group meetups? Understanding that groups often have diverse preferences and dietary restrictions, Beermiscuous embraces a flexible in-and-out food policy, allowing guests to bring in their own food or order from local eateries as they wish. This flexibility is a major plus for groups who want to customize their dining without being limited by a bar menu. Vegetarian options are available and confirmed to be satisfying, but the option to supplement with outside food makes it accessible for any dietary lifestyle, whether vegan, gluten-free, or otherwise. The friendly staff’s openness to answer questions and provide beer pairing suggestions makes it easy to plan a harmonious tasting experience around whatever snacks or meals your group prefers. Group gatherings are also enhanced by the inviting environment, where people can relax, eat, and drink without pressure, making the shared experience more enjoyable and inclusive.
What makes the locations of Beermiscuous convenient and welcoming for attendees? Beermiscuous operates primarily in two locations—its Chicago Lakeview spot is a central, lively neighborhood hub that's easy to reach for locals and visitors alike. This location’s street parking and proximity to public transport make it an accessible meeting point. Meanwhile, the Highwood location offers a slightly different vibe with ample parking and a comfortable suburban feel, ideal for those coming from surrounding communities. Both spots feature wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, enhancing convenience for all guests. Operating hours also accommodate a broad range of schedules, from midday meetups to late-night celebrations, with Sunday hours that accommodate more relaxed weekend plans. Whether you’re looking for the buzz of Chicago city life or a quieter spot in Highwood, Beermiscuous’s locations are designed to meet diverse group preferences without sacrificing charm or quality.
How does Beermiscuous create a dog-friendly environment that suits group gatherings? Including pets in social outings can greatly enhance group dynamics for many people, and Beermiscuous embraces this by being explicitly dog friendly. This welcoming policy means your group can bring four-legged friends along for a relaxed visit, an uncommon advantage that sets the venue apart from many other bars. The staff and other patrons tend to share a love for animals, making the environment friendly and safe for dogs to hang out while their owners enjoy the beer selection. This adds a joyful, familial dimension to meetups, promoting a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere where both people and pets feel at home. Bringing your dog can also encourage more memorable and playful interactions among friends, further enriching the experience of gathering at Beermiscuous.
What kinds of private event options are available at Beermiscuous for large groups? For groups looking to celebrate milestones or host formal meetups, Beermiscuous offers private event bookings with customizable options to fit a range of needs and budgets. You can reserve the entire bar space, which provides exclusivity and privacy for your group, perfect for birthdays, work mixers, or special celebrations. Pricing varies by time and date, with payments toward deposits that apply to the final bill, ensuring transparency. Additionally, a 20% auto gratuity is included on the final host tab, simplifying gratuity management for your event. The team is responsive to inquiries and can help tailor your event with details about beer availability, food policies, and group accommodations. These event services show an understanding that hosting a successful group meeting is as much about logistics as it is about atmosphere, making Beermiscuous a smart choice for your next private gathering.
Why do customers give Beermiscuous such high ratings? The consistently high rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on hundreds of reviews, reflects strong customer satisfaction rooted in the combination of outstanding beer selection, welcoming ambiance, and excellent customer service. Patrons frequently mention the knowledgeable and friendly staff who help make each visit personalized and enjoyable. The laid-back, cozy environment encourages socializing and relaxation, ideal for small or large group gatherings. Positive reviews emphasize the flexibility of food options and the dog-friendly atmosphere that make everyone feel included. This reputation for an exceptional overall experience ensures that new and returning guests trust Beermiscuous as a reliable and fun meetup destination. The balance of professional service and casual comfort creates a perfect space for friends and family to rally, celebrate, and connect over craft beer.
In summary, Beermiscuous stands out as an extraordinary venue for group meetups because it blends an exquisite craft beer experience with a welcoming environment and ample flexibility to accommodate diverse group needs. Its dual locations, exceptional beer offerings, dog-friendly policies, private event capabilities, and top-rated customer service collectively create an inviting and memorable space where friends and family can gather with ease and enjoyment. Whether you want to explore new brews, celebrate life’s moments, or just enjoy each other’s company, Beermiscuous delivers all the ingredients for a perfect group outing.