When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery
Why Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery, located in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere ideal for gatherings with friends. Known for its thoughtfully curated draft beer selection, the venue features local and international brews, prominently displayed behind the bar and regularly updated to excite craft beer enthusiasts. The menu pairs each dish with the perfect beer style, enhancing the tasting experience—whether enjoying a Bavarian pretzel with a crisp kölsch or savoring a juicy burger alongside a hoppy IPA. The setting is casual and welcoming, with friendly, attentive servers who readily provide tastings and knowledgeable recommendations to help guests choose their perfect pint. Centennial’s food variety highlights include smoked pork belly with a mustard glaze, hearty PEI mussels steamed in a beer broth, and a flavorful smoked chicken flatbread accented with curry and yogurt sauce. Happy hour specials offer excellent value on drafts, wines, and tasty appetizers like half-priced beer cheese and chips, encouraging lingering and lively socializing. Open from mid-afternoon into late evening during most of the week, Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery is a standout spot for anyone looking to explore diverse beers and enjoy satisfying food in a warm, friend-friendly environment.
Here's what people think of Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery
As of recent, Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery holds a 4.6-star rating based on 715 reviews.
Reviews for Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery generally praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who create a welcoming environment and offer helpful beer tastings. Positive feedback highlights the quality and heartiness of certain dishes, notably the smoked pork belly and PEI mussels, which many diners find delicious and satisfying. The pairing of beers with menu items is also a common compliment, appreciated by craft beer aficionados for enhancing their dining experience. Customers commend the vibrant beer selection featuring local brews and notable international options. On the other hand, some mixed reviews point to inconsistent food quality, with certain dishes like the burger varying in preparation and taste, occasionally disappointing guests. Despite this, the overall convivial atmosphere and thoughtful drink and food deals keep patrons returning. The venue’s happy hour specials, including discounted draft beers and classic bar snacks, receive positive mentions for value. In conclusion, while food consistency may fluctuate, Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery’s strong points lie in its beer variety, lively yet comfortable ambiance, and attentive service, making it a solid choice for craft beer lovers looking to meet up with friends in River North.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
B F
This is my type of place. Really cool pub vibe, friendly service, tasty food, and a rare variety of beer on tap. Will make a point to go every time I'm in Chicago.
Julie Nadig
We hosted our wedding rehearsal dinner and welcome party at Centennial in their second floor dining space and had the best time!! Planning the event with Jeff and Beth was easy and we couldn’t be happier with the service provided, delicious food, and amazing atmosphere. The upstairs area was perfect for hosting around 80 guests with a buffet and a good amount of seating. Our guests had so many great things to say about the food and beer/cocktails - all of our local friends will definitely be going there to eat more often! My husband and I had our second date at Centennial, so it was really special to be able to kick off our wedding weekend with such a wonderful event!
Carolus van Leeuwen
Loved the vibe here! Great beer and wine selection, super friendly staff, and delicious food that came out quickly. We were seated right away and felt taken care of throughout. Highly recommend.
Anders Løkke
My favorite place in all of Chicago! After spending a week there for work and crawling all over the city, I did not come here until the final evening, and I regret it. Great selection of craft beers, interesting and delicious food selection - I had a frankfurter hot dog which was great - and superb and attentive bartenders and staff. The feeling of hometown bar in such a big city is rare, but this is where I felt at home. Next time I’m in town I’m definitely coming back, and I cannot recommend it enough if you’re up for a bite and some very good beer!
Mikhail Badylevich
Historic place, very carefully restored by owners. Huge list of draft beers, good choice of food. Cozy atmosphere. I very enjoyed my visit!
How to reach Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery
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Why Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery with your friends? This vibrant spot in Chicago’s River North neighborhood is a natural gathering place designed for enjoyment and connection through craft beer and delicious dining. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 700 reviews, Centennial has proven itself as a favorite for groups seeking a lively but comfortable atmosphere to share memorable moments. The curated selection of 36 rotating craft beers taps into styles from local, national, and international producers, ensuring that each visit offers something exciting and new to taste. Beyond its broad beer selection, the eatery complements the experience with chef-driven dishes crafted to pair perfectly with the brews, focusing on smoked, char-grilled, and wood-fired ingredients. This makes it an excellent place not just to drink but truly savor flavors together, heightening the social experience. The combination of quality drinks, thoughtfully prepared food, and a welcoming ambiance makes Centennial an inviting spot where friends can casually convene, celebrate, or simply relax after a busy day.
What activities make Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery perfect for group meetups?
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery offers more than just exceptional beer and food; its variety of activities and specials uniquely accommodate group meetups. On select days, there are happy hour specials Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 6 pm, and Friday from 2 to 6 pm, showcasing discounted draft beers, wines, and popular food items like beer cheese & chips and Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese. These promotions create a lively, budget-friendly opportunity for groups to enjoy extended social time without a heavy tab. The venue’s layout and design foster a warm, inviting setting ideal for conversations, and its location near Chicago’s Gold Coast adds to its accessibility for friends coming from across the city. For larger groups or special occasions, the staff are known for attentive, friendly service, helping coordinate a seamless experience. The rotating beer selection also invites friends on a tasting adventure, sparking discussion and shared discovery. Moreover, the chef-driven menu revolving around beer pairings makes the experience interactive and immersive, giving attendees a chance to appreciate craft brewing culture and food as a collective experience.
How does Centennial’s craft beer selection enhance a meetup experience?
At the heart of Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery is an extraordinary craft beer program that guarantees variety and quality, perfect for groups who enjoy exploring different beer styles together. The venue offers 56 taps with 36 rotating craft beers, ensuring freshness and regular new options from local favorites to international selections. This range allows for diverse preferences within any group — from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts and refreshing ciders. The rotation keeps the experience dynamic and engaging, encouraging patrons to come back repeatedly to try new brews. Additionally, the bar carries many bottled and canned selections, broadening the choices beyond what is on tap. This extensive selection supports sociability and discovery, as groups can share flights or suggest new beers to one another, turning drinking into a communal learning and tasting event. The bartenders and servers are knowledgeable and often ready to recommend beers that might suit specific tastes, further enhancing the personalized feel of the experience.
What sets Centennial’s food menu apart for group dining?
The food menu at Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery is thoughtfully crafted to complement its outstanding beer selection, offering smoked, char-grilled, and wood-fired dishes that pair perfectly with the diverse beers on offer. The menu emphasizes beer-infused ingredients and house-made charcuterie that elevate the culinary experience. This focus on pairing lends itself well to group dining, where shared plates and communal experiences enhance the overall atmosphere. Notable dishes like the beer-braised short ribs offer rich, tender, and flavorful options that satisfy hearty appetites, while snacks like the Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese are ideal for casual sharing. The bistro-style menu supports a range of group moods from casual nibbles over drinks to more substantial meals. With an emphasis on elevated comfort food, the menu accommodates different dietary preferences and offers choices designed to amplify the craft beer experience. This combination makes Centennial not just a bar but a destination where food and drink are equally celebrated in a social setting.
What kind of atmosphere and location does Centennial offer for meetups?
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery creates a cozy but stylish environment that encourages lingering and laughter with friends or family. The interior is neatly styled with comfortable seating conducive to conversations, whether in smaller groups or mid-sized parties. The vibe balances a lively bar energy with enough intimacy to feel personal and inviting, making it suitable for casual meetups, celebratory outings, or after-work gatherings. Located within a short walk of the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, Centennial benefits from both convenience and character, positioned in an area known for its mix of residential and vibrant nightlife options. This location not only draws a diverse crowd but also provides easy access via public transportation or a pleasant walk for locals and visitors alike. The friendly service and welcoming staff contribute to the positive atmosphere, reinforcing Centennial as an accommodating space where everyone can feel at home and enjoy quality time with their group.
How do special events and promotions enhance group experiences at Centennial?
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery regularly hosts happy hour specials and other events designed to enhance the social experience for groups. The Wednesday and Thursday evening happy hours and extended Friday afternoon specials offer perfect windows for groups to gather affordably and enjoy craft beers at a discount. These promotions, including half-priced beer cheese and chips, encourage groups to linger and savor more flavors, whether arriving after work or starting an evening out. Additionally, Centennial sometimes features a Brewery of the Month, spotlighting a particular craft brewery to further educate and excite patrons with special taps or releases. Such events provide excellent opportunities for group engagement, turning a casual meetup into a mini celebration of craft beer culture. These promotions also foster a sense of community among regulars and newcomers alike, making Centennial a go-to spot for those who prioritize quality, variety, and value in their social outings.
Why is Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery considered a community hub?
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery extends beyond being just a restaurant or bar to embody a community hub where craft beer lovers and foodies gather around their shared passion. The establishment’s dedication to craft is evident not only in the selection of beers but also in the care put into the menu and the atmosphere, all crafted to bring people together on common ground. The venue encourages social interaction through its rotating beer selections and food pairings, promoting discovery and conversation. It also often supports and features local breweries and craft producers, reinforcing its role as a supporter of the broader craft community in Chicago. Guests commonly highlight the friendly staff and feel that the space fosters connection and cultural appreciation, making it an ideal destination for meeting friends, celebrating occasions, or simply enjoying collective time. This blend of quality, culture, and community spirit sets Centennial apart as a quintessential spot for those who see beer and dining as social experiences worth sharing.
What do reviewers say about the experience at Centennial?
Customers consistently praise Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery for its great food, impressive beer variety, and inviting atmosphere. Many highlight the menu’s creativity and quality, especially the beer-braised short ribs and the indulgent charcuterie options. The beer selection receives acclaim for both its breadth and carefully curated rotation, ensuring fresh and exciting choices each visit. Reviewers also comment on the friendly, knowledgeable staff who contribute significantly to a positive experience by helping guests navigate the extensive beer list and making personalized recommendations. The establishment’s vibe is described as cozy with solid energy, making it suitable for everything from friendly hangouts to special gatherings. With a 4.6 rating from over 700 reviews and regular return customers, Centennial clearly enjoys a loyal following that appreciates its balance of craftsmanship, community, and comfort — key reasons why it remains a top choice for meetups in the Chicago area.
How accessible are the hours and location for groups?
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery features hours that cater well to various group needs throughout the week. Open from early afternoon on Fridays through the weekend and offering later closing hours on Fridays and Saturdays (until midnight), the eatery accommodates both daytime meetups and late-night gatherings. Wednesday and Thursday hours are 4 to 11 PM, providing a cozy evening option midweek. Sunday closes earlier at 9 PM, fitting in with a relaxed weekend rhythm. Its location at 733 N LaSalle Drive in River North is highly accessible, close to downtown Chicago and near public transit routes, easing the logistics of planning a group outing. The neighborhood proximity to the Gold Coast and other popular areas ensures that groups can combine visits to Centennial with other activities or conveniently gather before heading elsewhere. This accessibility, combined with flexible hours, strengthens Centennial’s appeal as a reliable and accommodating spot for marking any social occasion with friends or family.