When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery
Why Maplewood Brewery & Distillery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery, nestled in Chicago’s historic Logan Square neighborhood, offers a unique and inviting setting that makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Since its founding in 2014, Maplewood has been a pioneer, combining craft brewing and distilling under one roof. This distinctive approach allows it to offer an impressive array of finely crafted beers and spirits. The venue includes a cozy lounge that functions as a neighborhood bar, cocktail parlor, and taproom, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for groups or casual outings. The brewery’s expansive beer selection includes popular styles like hazy IPAs, smooth cream ales, and robust stouts, complemented by creative cocktails for those who prefer spirits over beer. The intimate space hosts events like trivia nights, adding a fun community dimension for patrons. Additionally, live in-house menus with innovative dishes such as pizzas and gastropub fare pair well with drinks, rounding out the experience. Maplewood’s location on N Maplewood Ave provides an unassuming exterior that contrasts with the lively, friendly interior, making it a hidden gem for locals and visitors seeking quality drinks and convivial company.
Here's what people think of Maplewood Brewery & Distillery
As of recent, Maplewood Brewery & Distillery holds a 4.7-star rating based on 640 reviews.
Customer reviews generally highlight Maplewood Brewery & Distillery's excellent ambiance and quality of offerings. Many patrons appreciate the friendly service and lively yet laid-back vibe, often mentioning the engaging trivia nights as a community highlight. Positive feedback emphasizes the extensive and expertly crafted beer menu, particularly praising the IPAs and stouts, as well as the creative cocktails served. The food, while limited primarily to pizzas and gastropub-style snacks like cheese curds and corn dogs, is generally well-received and complements the drinks well. However, some negative points include the small size of the taproom and lounge, which can lead to crowding and difficulty finding seating during peak hours, especially on weekends and event nights. A few reviewers noted that the atmosphere may feel cramped when busy, and waiting times for entry or seating can be inconvenient. Despite this, most agree that the combination of quality drinks, good food, and a welcoming environment outweighs these drawbacks. Overall, the reviews convey that Maplewood Brewery & Distillery offers a memorable and enjoyable experience, securing its reputation as a favorite local spot for craft beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kaylani Ebert
What an absolutely gorgeous place! Great atmosphere, food and drinks were phenomenal! The pickle plate was so good, strawberries and all (just give it a chance, trust me) and you can't go wrong with cheese curds! I also had the oatmeal raisin old fashion (raisin syrup made in house) and the kraków dip sandwich. One of the best pulled pork sandwiches I've had in a long time! And, on top of that, we made it in time for crazy bingo, which was a blast! Overall I am so happy we walked into this place and will absolutely be back
Begona Cowan
Maplewood is a great local neighborhood brewery. It is cozy on the inside, and bright on the outside patio. They have flights of beers, ipas, sloggers and stouts. They've expanded both in space and their menu now includes food. I really enjoyed all four of my mini beers, and the fries were done really well. I love this place. Today I had a flight of four beers, and order of fries, tax and a 20% tip everything came out to 28th from just me
Chiburbanfoodie
The “new” food menu is a welcome addition. Don’t sleep on the burger! Wow! This place is firing on a cylinders with fantastic beer, food, and cocktails.
Max C
Wasn't expecting that crowd on a saturday afternoon. The place was packed! Grabbed a flight of IPA and they were all very tasty! BA stouts were very good too
Miranda
amazing beer. the juice was in son of juice comes out very refreshing and tasty. the coffee blonde is a good try with fragrant coffee notes.
How to reach Maplewood Brewery & Distillery
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Why Maplewood Brewery & Distillery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Maplewood Brewery & Distillery with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Maplewood Brewery & Distillery in Chicago offers an extraordinary venue that seamlessly combines a welcoming atmosphere with expertly crafted beverages. This establishment is uniquely positioned as both a brewery and a distillery under one roof, presenting a wide spectrum of high-quality artisanal beers and spirits. Whether your group prefers tasting innovative craft beers or sipping on finely distilled cocktails, Maplewood caters to diverse palates, making it easy for everyone to find something they enjoy. The location itself, nestled in the historic Logan Square neighborhood, has the charm of a neighborhood bar combined with the vibrancy of a cocktail lounge, creating a comfortable yet lively environment ideal for socializing. Its 4.7-star rating from over 600 reviews is a testament to the quality of the experience offered. Overall, Maplewood is not just a place to drink; it is a dynamic social hub where friends can connect over expert drinks, share a great meal, and enjoy an authentic community vibe, making it a perfect destination for meetups.
What activities can you do at Maplewood Brewery & Distillery for a group meetup?
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery caters to groups looking for both relaxation and engagement through a variety of activities. At its core, the brewery offers tastings of its finely crafted beers and spirits, allowing groups to explore an array of flavors from stouts and blondes to cocktails made with their in-house distilled liquor. The brewery operates a taproom and cocktail parlor, which offers a cozy setting perfect for conversations and enjoying drinks. Additionally, the kitchen serves a well-curated menu with the kitchen generally open until 10 PM, giving groups the option to enjoy hearty meals alongside their drinks. Maplewood also hosts seasonal events and sometimes features live music or themed nights, adding an entertaining layer to meetups. The outdoor patio provides a casual space to gather, especially on warmer days, enhancing the group experience with fresh air and relaxed seating. With ample room and varied offerings, Maplewood ensures everyone in your group can find an activity or setting that suits their mood.
Why is Maplewood Brewery & Distillery perfect for hosting friend and family gatherings?
The welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at Maplewood Brewery & Distillery makes it an ideal spot for bringing friends and family together. Its neighborhood bar ambiance combined with a modern cocktail lounge creates a versatile space that appeals to all ages (21+). The location’s layout—with close tables and communal seating options—encourages conversation and connection, enabling groups to share the experience intimately. Maplewood’s commitment to quality is evident not just in their drinks but in their attentive, friendly staff who make guests feel at home and gathered as part of the community. The venue also embraces inclusivity with gender-neutral restrooms and a casual vibe that removes any barriers to comfort. Importantly, Maplewood stays open late on weekends (until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays), giving groups flexibility for evening plans that stretch into the night. Its setting within Logan Square, a culturally rich and accessible neighborhood, adds to the convenience and appeal for locals and visitors alike.
What beverage options make Maplewood Brewery & Distillery special?
What sets Maplewood apart is its dual focus on both brewing and distilling, a rare combination in one location. Since 2014, Maplewood has been known for pushing the boundaries in liquid craftsmanship, producing a broad variety of beer styles and spirits. For beer lovers, the selection includes unique brews such as stouts like the popular Fat Pug, Hefeweizens, Coffee Blonde, and Dunkel, each offering a distinctive taste experience. Cocktails at Maplewood use their own distilled spirits including vodkas, gins, and whiskeys, providing a high-quality mixology experience that caters to those who prefer something beyond beer. This variety ensures all tastes are covered, from hop-heavy IPAs to smooth, craft cocktails. The care taken in brewing and distilling processes translates into beverages that are both flavorful and complex, reflecting the passion and expertise of the brewers and distillers. This extensive menu makes it a go-to spot for groups with varied preferences.
When can I visit Maplewood Brewery & Distillery with my friends?
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery is open most days, providing generous hours that accommodate both daytime and late-night gatherings. The lounge generally opens at 3 PM from Tuesday through Thursday, extending to midnight on Thursdays and Fridays. Weekend hours are even more accommodating, opening at 11 AM and staying open until midnight on both Friday and Saturday, and from 11 AM to 10 PM on Sunday. The kitchen is open during operating hours but typically closes at 10 PM. Monday is the only day the lounge is closed, making the rest of the week highly accessible for planning any day or evening meetup. These broad hours offer flexibility for casual afternoon hangouts, happy hour sessions, or late-night celebrations, supporting group events ranging from relaxed brunch-style meetups to energetic nightlife outings.
What is the atmosphere like at Maplewood Brewery & Distillery?
Maplewood offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that mixes the cozy comfort of a neighborhood bar with the style and energy of a craft cocktail lounge. The interior features close tables and communal seating that foster conversation and a sense of community. The staff are noted for being friendly and attentive, heightening the welcoming vibe that makes guests feel like regulars from their first visit. The historic Logan Square location adds a cultural richness to the ambiance, with a rustic yet modern aesthetic that appeals to a broad crowd, including locals and visitors. Their outdoor patio expands this inviting feel by providing open-air seating perfect for sunny days and social gatherings. In all, the atmosphere strikes an excellent balance between casual and special, making it a natural setting for memorable get-togethers.
How does Maplewood Brewery & Distillery stand out from other venues?
Maplewood differentiates itself by being the first brewery and distillery under one roof in Illinois, combining the best of two craft worlds. This dual identity allows them to experiment and offer a broader beverage range than typical breweries or bars. Over more than a decade, Maplewood has built a loyal fan base, expanding distribution beyond Chicago into several Midwest states, reflecting the quality and appeal of their products. Their commitment to innovation is evident in both their beverage lineup and in their community-focused lounge that doubles as a taproom and cocktail bar. The operation balances production with hospitality, ensuring every visitor experiences fresh, finely crafted drinks served in a lively and comfortable setting. This blend of craftsmanship, community focus, and accessible location makes Maplewood a standout choice for groups seeking both quality and atmosphere.
What food options are available for groups at Maplewood?
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery offers a kitchen with a menu designed to complement its beverages, making it convenient for groups looking to enjoy food alongside drinks. The kitchen typically operates until 10 PM, aligning well with most of their lounge hours, so visitors can pair their favorite beer or cocktail with tasty dishes. While specific menu items can vary, the focus is on approachable, flavorful comfort foods that appeal to a broad range of tastes, perfect for sharing during group gatherings. Whether you want a casual bite or something more substantial, the food service supports social dining in a relaxed environment. This balance between drinks and food ensures Maplewood meets the diverse needs of groups, creating a complete experience without needing to go elsewhere.
How convenient is Maplewood Brewery & Distillery for group meetups?
Convenience is key when selecting a venue for friends or family meetups, and Maplewood excels in this regard. Located on N Maplewood Avenue in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, it benefits from easy access by car and public transit. The venue offers street parking, though checking availability ahead of time for larger groups is recommended. Inside, the spacious lounge with close and communal seating easily accommodates both small and larger parties. The combination of a taproom, cocktail bar, and kitchen within one location means groups can enjoy everything needed for a long, enjoyable visit without interruption. The extended weekend hours allow for flexible timing, and the accommodating staff are experienced in hosting groups, ensuring smooth service. Overall, Maplewood makes social planning straightforward and stress-free.
Why do reviewers praise Maplewood Brewery & Distillery?
Reviewers consistently highlight Maplewood’s expertly crafted drinks, cozy and vibrant atmosphere, and friendly staff as top reasons for their high ratings. Many have called out the quality of both the beer and distilled spirits, noting favorites like the Fat Pug stout and creative cocktails. The welcoming environment with community-focused vibes makes it a place people want to revisit. Reviewers also appreciate the combination of brewery and distillery under one roof, offering variety and quality not commonly found elsewhere. The neighborhood feel combined with an inclusive space for all makes it popular among locals and visitors alike, leading to a loyal following and a solid overall rating around 4.7 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews.
Where to find essential information before visiting?
To plan your visit to Maplewood Brewery & Distillery efficiently, check their official website for current hours and menu updates, as well as any special events or closure notices. The brewery is located at 2717 N Maplewood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647, in the Logan Square area. Their lounge hours are generally from the afternoon until late night, except Monday when the venue is closed. The kitchen closes at 10 PM, so earlier evening visits are ideal for dining. Maplewood also has a phone line for inquiries and group reservations, helping you coordinate meetups easily. By reviewing this info in advance, groups can ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit to this beloved Chicago establishment.