When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company
Why Crushed By Giants Brewing Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the bustling Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago, Crushed By Giants Brewing Company offers a welcoming craft brewery and restaurant experience right at the corner of Rush and Ohio. This locally owned brewery stands out with its ever-changing draft list featuring a variety of beer styles, all poured directly from the tank to the tap, ensuring fresh and flavorful brews that can only be enjoyed on-site or taken home in 32oz crowlers. The establishment is known for its brewpub staples—deliciously crafted burgers, sandwiches, and bar snacks—with a kitchen that prioritizes simple, tasty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Its spacious and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for gathering with friends to enjoy great beer and hearty food after a day of shopping or sightseeing along Michigan Avenue. The unconventional collaboration behind this venue, created by Greg Shuff and the DryHop Brewers team, brings a reputation for quality and innovation dating back to their 2013 East Lakeview brewery and restaurant. With operating hours that accommodate both lunch and dinner crowds throughout the week, Crushed By Giants is an ideal place to relax, catch up, and savor Chicago's craft beer scene in a lively city-center setting.
Here's what people think of Crushed By Giants Brewing Company
As of recent, Crushed By Giants Brewing Company holds a 4.6-star rating based on 583 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Crushed By Giants Brewing Company for its authentic, true-to-style beers and friendly, engaging service. Many reviews highlight it as a refreshing spot to pause during shopping or touring downtown Chicago, where patrons can enjoy a quality pint paired with tasty food in a relaxed environment. Positive feedback often mentions the beer's freshness and the unique tank-to-tap system, which beer enthusiasts appreciate for preserving flavor integrity. The kitchen's locally sourced, simple fare complements the brews well, with particular praise for the burgers and sandwiches that serve as satisfying accompaniments. However, some negative remarks focus on occasional seating limitations during peak hours and the newer brewery's relatively limited beer availability strictly on-site or via crowlers, which some patrons find restrictive compared to wider distribution options. Nonetheless, most guests conclude that the brewery's product quality, atmosphere, and attentive staff outweigh these minor inconveniences, making it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a genuine craft beer experience in Chicago's heart.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mr3dPHD
Great place with super fun branding! It took a lot of effort not to buy the mini pub glass they serve water in (the last thing I need is more beer glassware) because the design is so great. The beer was very good, particularly the porter which was so smokey and full of flavor! We also tried the poutine with pulled pork which was great. I really liked this place a lot, and it's in a great spot. Pro Tip: If your spouse is a shopper and wants to walk the Magnificent Mile, this is how you compromise. It's right next to Nordstrom. Even better, tell her to meet you there when she's done!
Mack Erel
Very cool brewery with a great selection for all. We had just planned on having a couple beers, but ended up ordering a side of fries. They were delicious, I wish we had planned on eating a full meal here because all the food we saw come out to other patrons looked AMAZING. Next time we will plan to eat there for sure.
Kevin Meyer
Great location for a brewery, but it's reflected in their prices.... Tried a six beer flight, some were fantastic...others just okay. Kitchen closes early!
Tatiana
It was my first time visiting Chicago, and I was thrilled to discover this amazing spot. The food was not only delicious but full of rich flavors, and the c I'm craft beer selection was exceptional—perfectly chilled and refreshing. The staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome with their warm and friendly service, creating a wonderful sense of hospitality. The atmosphere was vibrant yet cozy, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a great meal. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip! Thank you!
Ryan Sullivan
This place is always solid. As a member of the DryHop group, the beers are always predictable and consistent. It may be hard to find, as you have to take the escalator up towards the theater, but once you’re inside the atmosphere is lively and open and bright. The food is just as good as the beer, if not better. The burger is popular and the pizza is delicious. The only tricky part is parking, but if you’re in River North for other errands it’s worth stopping by!
How to reach Crushed By Giants Brewing Company
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Why Crushed By Giants Brewing Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company is an experience built around community, quality, and atmosphere. Located in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Streeterville neighborhood on Michigan Avenue, this brewery combines the best elements of social dining and craft beer culture. With a strong 4.6-star rating from over 580 reviews, it’s clearly a favored spot for groups looking to enjoy fresh, flavorful brews paired with delicious food in a laid-back but stylish setting. The brewery’s unique selling point is its “very fresh beer” philosophy, pouring rotating craft beers directly from the tanks, ensuring every sip is fresh and bursting with flavor. This transparency and dedication to quality create a sense of trust and excitement among guests. The venue is spacious and well-designed to accommodate groups large and small, making it ideal for meetups with friends, family celebrations, or casual hangouts. Its central location near Michigan Avenue also makes it an accessible and convenient spot for everyone to converge, enjoy good company, and relax in an inviting atmosphere that encourages lively conversation and memorable experiences. The combination of excellent beer, good food, and a welcoming vibe makes Crushed By Giants a go-to place to rally your friends and create lasting memories.
What activities are available at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company for group meetups?
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company offers a variety of activities and amenities perfect for group gatherings. First and foremost, the brewery experience itself is an engaging activity—guests can explore an ever-changing draft list of craft beers, each poured fresh from the tanks. This rotating selection offers a great opportunity for groups to sample different beer styles together, turning tasting into a shared adventure. The brewery also provides detailed beer descriptions and staff recommendations to enhance the experience, making it educational as well as enjoyable. Beyond beer tasting, their kitchen crafts a menu focused on locally sourced, straightforward dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and bar snacks designed to complement the brews. This food-beer pairing element encourages groups to relax, share plates, and enjoy a casual communal meal. The brewery layout includes ample seating with environments suitable for both intimate chats and larger group conversations. It is spacious enough for birthday celebrations, informal meetings, or just hanging out with friends. The venue’s table service ensures that your group can focus on socializing without hassle. Finally, its proximity to downtown Chicago means that visitors can easily combine a brewery meetup with other local attractions or events, making a day or evening out with friends multifaceted and fun.
Why is Crushed By Giants Brewing Company perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company is ideal for group meetups due to its top-notch combination of location, atmosphere, and service. Situated right on Michigan Avenue close to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, it is conveniently accessible by public transport or car, allowing everyone in your group to arrive with ease. Inside, the vibe strikes a perfect balance of casual and trendy, appealing to a wide range of ages and tastes. The space is thoughtfully designed to keep groups comfortable, with enough room to avoid feeling cramped while maintaining a buzzing social energy. The brewery’s commitment to quality means your group will enjoy top-tier craft beers that are regulars’ favorites but also surprising newcomers with new seasonal and experimental brews. The kitchen’s menu of fresh, simple dishes serves crowd-pleasers that perfectly accompany the brew selections, making sure hunger doesn’t disrupt the flow of good times. Additionally, the attentive table service allows your group to focus on connection and fun rather than logistics. For groups who want more than just drinks, Crushed By Giants often embraces events and specials that provide entertainment, further enhancing meetup experiences. All of these factors culminate in a welcoming and exciting destination where groups can effortlessly gather, enjoy great flavors, and make meaningful social memories.
What kind of food and drink can your group expect at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company?
At Crushed By Giants Brewing Company, groups can expect a curated menu that focuses on pairing well with their craft beer selection while offering satisfying, approachable dishes. The brewery specializes in classic American cuisine staples designed to complement their beers — think juicy burgers, flavorful sandwiches, and delicious bar snacks made from locally sourced ingredients. This focus on quality and simplicity means dishes are prepared fresh and thoughtfully, balancing taste and heartiness to keep everyone in your party happy. The range of beers is extensive and dynamic, featuring rotating taps poured directly from the tanks to ensure absolute freshness. Beer styles vary broadly, enabling groups to explore everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and rich stouts, catering to diverse palates. This variety stimulates conversation and discovery during your visit. Beyond the alcoholic options, Crushed By Giants also offers non-alcoholic choices for those who prefer them, so everyone in your group is covered. The capacity to order food and drinks to share enhances the social experience, letting groups build their own tasting flights and food pairings. Whether your group is hungry for a meal or just seeking delicious snacks alongside your pints, this brewery covers all bases.
What is the ambiance and setting like for groups at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company?
The ambiance at Crushed By Giants Brewing Company is inviting, warm, and energetic — perfect for groups eager to catch up in a lively yet relaxed environment. Located on the second floor at the corner of Rush and Ohio streets, the brewery benefits from a central, bustling urban setting that adds to its vibrancy. Inside, the décor combines industrial brewery charm with modern touches, including large tank displays that directly connect patrons to the brewing process, giving the space authenticity and a unique storytelling element. The lighting is well balanced, bright enough to foster socialization but intimate enough to maintain cozy conversations among friends and family. The layout is spacious and flexible, offering everything from communal tables for larger groups to smaller, more private seating for intimate gatherings. The background soundtrack and general noise level maintain an upbeat but comfortable tone, encouraging guests to unwind without sacrificing the energy typical of a great pub atmosphere. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, further contributing to a welcoming vibe where guests feel appreciated and at ease. This combination of setting and service ensures group members can truly relax, enjoy each other’s company, and take full advantage of the brewery’s offerings.
What practical details should groups know before visiting Crushed By Giants Brewing Company?
Groups planning to visit Crushed By Giants Brewing Company will appreciate knowing some practical details to maximize their experience. The brewery operates with hours from 12 pm to 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and extends until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with the kitchen closing an hour earlier. This schedule offers flexibility for daytime and evening meetups, including weekend plans. Reservations might be advisable for larger groups to ensure ample seating, although the space is generally accommodating. Located at 600 N Michigan Avenue with entrance on Rush and Ohio, the brewery is centrally positioned for easy access whether traveling by public transit or car, with plenty of nearby parking and transport options. The price range is moderate, reflecting quality craft beer and fresh food, which makes it ideal for groups looking for good value without compromising quality. The venue serves alcohol responsibly and offers non-alcoholic alternatives, so all guests can be catered for. Contact options including phone and email allow advance communication for special requests or group accommodations. Lastly, with a strong reputation and high ratings, expect a professional yet friendly service experience that prioritizes guest satisfaction and comfort for all group gatherings.