When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
Why Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Off Color Brewing Taproom, known as The Mousetrap, offers an exceptional gathering spot for friends and beer lovers in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Opened in 2017, this taproom is renowned for its inventive and diverse beer selection, including unique styles like Tiki Weisse with passionfruit, Hibiscus Gose, and Wild Ales with exotic ingredients such as sudachi and white tea, appealing to both sour beer fans and those looking to explore beyond typical IPAs. The spacious indoor environment features large glass windows providing a glimpse into their brewing operation, adding an engaging industrial atmosphere. Additionally, The Mousetrap offers outdoor seating with patio tables in a casual setting ideal for socializing during good weather. Though food options are not available onsite, guests are welcome to bring their own food, making it a flexible spot for meetups. Its convenient location near the North/Clybourn Red Line stop and several bus routes enhances accessibility. The taproom also features a bottle shop for guests to purchase select beers to enjoy later. The welcoming staff and the inviting ambiance make The Mousetrap stand out as a top choice for groups to enjoy creative craft beers in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Here's what people think of Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
As of recent, Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap holds a 4.6-star rating based on 765 reviews.
Visitors to Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap consistently praise the quality and creativity of the beer offerings, highlighting how the variety caters to adventurous palates, especially those who enjoy sour and wild ales over conventional IPAs. Many reviewers admire the flavorful draught beers, such as the Allagash White, and appreciate the relaxed, group-friendly environment with plenty of seating options indoors and outdoors. The ambiance, featuring an industrial-chic design with large windows showing parts of the brewery, is often noted for its welcoming vibe and suitability for socializing with friends. Positive feedback frequently mentions the attentive and friendly staff, making the taproom an inviting place for both locals and visitors. On the other hand, some guests note the absence of on-site food service as a drawback, requiring patrons to bring their own snacks or eat elsewhere. Additionally, a few have expressed disappointment about the lack of flight options to sample multiple beers in smaller portions, which could enhance the tasting experience. Despite these points, reviews conclude that The Mousetrap remains a highly recommended venue for craft beer enthusiasts looking for a unique selection and an enjoyable atmosphere in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Robert Cook
Great brewery. Large selection with a great variety of beers. Off Color classics like Apex Predator and great new additions. Awesome vending machine with non-food oddities like 1989 Topps baseball card. Wonderful space with indoor and outdoor seating.
Larry Wojciechowski
If you want a craft brewery with non-typical offerings, Off Color Mousetrap is the place to be. Saisons are front and center here with some excellent Berliner type Weisse beers. If you don't know what I am talking about, this might not be the place for you. If you are adventurous in your craft beer drinking = this is the place! The staff is extremely friendly and the craft beer might be the BEST in Chicago (that is saying a lot because there are many world class craft breweries here). Get over to Off Color Mousetrap and have some excellent craft beers! They also have some wine & cocktails for your non craft beer friends.
James
Quaint brewery with lots of space that can serve as a great place to relax and meet friends especially on a warm sunny day as they have a lovely outdoor seating area. They have a good selection of beers and I really appreciate their branding of rats and capybaras on their glasses. Service is friendly, but like other breweries in Chicago, they don't serve food. Instead, you can bring food in or order delivery. They do have a few party games one can play
colin penn
Wish I could give this a 4.5. Honestly best brewery in Chicago when it comes to great tasting and inventive beer that they're always updating. The different type of beer selection is top notch, from IPA's to wheat to Sours, so there's something for everybody. Too many breweries focus on only 1 style of beer. Unfortunately they need more outdoor space, as it's only a few large tables. The bartenders aren't super friendly and seem pretty transitional and this has been consistent through 5+ visits over 5 years. They also have no A/C in the place meaning you're forced to sit inside due to limited outdoor seating but it's miserably hot in the summer. They also don't do flights, unlike every other brewery, for no good reason. In spite of all of this I still recommend this place based on these caveats.
Camille Duncan
This place was initially put on my radar a while ago by a very earnest and kind post by the owner who discussed making sure his employees still had work through tough financial spots, which I found really cool. After finally getting around to trying it I can say I’m glad it was- the beers were great, loved the yuzu kosho and yuzu blueberry ales, but personal adoration for yuzu aside there were many others that sounded delicious so I’ll need to have another visit soon. They also currently are hosting a pop-up by Five Squared pizza and it’s even more reason to go because that stuff is GOOD… highly recommend the vodka meatball. Thanks for being good people and making great beer, looking forward to my next visit.
How to reach Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
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Why Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap with your friends? This welcoming brewery in Chicago offers a unique gathering spot where friends and family can enjoy not just exceptional craft beers but also a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. With a strong 4.6-star rating from over 765 reviews, it clearly stands out as a beloved locale for social meetups. Whether you're a craft beer aficionado or simply looking for a cool place to unwind, Off Color Brewing's Taproom invites you with 16 unique brews on draft that range from inventive seasonal flavors to carefully crafted staples. Its industrial yet cozy setting, complemented by indoor and outdoor seating including a dog-friendly patio, ensures everyone in your group can find comfort and space to socialize. The laid-back policy of allowing outside food means you can bring your favorite snacks or meals, making the venue flexible enough to host casual hangouts or small celebrations. Accessibility combined with good vibes and a dedicated, friendly staff creates the perfect backdrop for memorable times with your crew.
What activities can I enjoy at Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap?
At The Mousetrap, the core attraction is unquestionably the diverse range of craft beers brewed in-house, all available fresh on draft. You and your friends can explore the flavor boldness offered by Off Color's signature offerings like "Beer for Beaches," a crushable summer beer with unique flavor notes that beer lovers rave about. Beyond just drinking, the taproom frequently hosts special events and updates via their e-newsletter and social media, such as beer releases and tasting sessions that enhance the group experience. Though the taproom does not provide food service, this is balanced by their welcome of outside food, so your meetups can double as casual picnics or potlucks with your preferred cuisine. The outdoor patio is dog-friendly, making it ideal for friends or family who want to bring their well-behaved pups along to enjoy the fresh air. Free Wi-Fi also means you can connect with others, play games, or even work remotely if a small group outing doubles as a laid-back meeting. Additionally, although in-person brewery tours were paused due to social distancing, the space is designed to foster communal experiences around the shared love of beer and company.
Why is The Mousetrap perfect for a group meetup?
The Mousetrap’s spacious taproom and flexible seating arrangement make it exceptionally accommodating for groups of varying sizes. It operates on a first-come, first-served seating basis which encourages spontaneity and a relaxed vibe, ideal for casual group gatherings without the hassle of reservations. This means your group can come by any day during open hours and find a spot to settle in together, whether on cozy indoor tables or al fresco on the patio. The Saturday and Friday extended hours until midnight allow late-night meetups, perfect for celebrations or unwinding after a long week. For medium-sized parties, the taproom sometimes offers space hold options during slower weekdays, enhancing the group's ability to plan together. Credit card-only transactions streamline the ordering process, keeping it simple for groups who might want to rotate rounds. The staff's friendly and helpful nature makes group visits easy and enjoyable, whether you’re new to craft beer or seasoned aficionados. Altogether, The Mousetrap is not just a place to drink — it is a convivial space designed for connection and discovery, making it a prime choice for friends and families wanting an authentic Chicago brewery experience.
What makes Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap stand out in Chicago?
Off Color Brewing is well-regarded throughout Chicago for its inventive and fearless approach to craft beer, and The Mousetrap is the physical embodiment of that creative spirit. Many reviewers note the distinctiveness of their beer flavors and the quality of brewing that sets them apart from typical breweries, creating a destination that intrigues both locals and visitors. The taproom’s location at 1460 N Kingsbury places it conveniently near Chicago’s cultural landmarks, making it an accessible stop before or after city explorations. Beyond beer, their cool, casual vibe fostered by supportive staff and an inviting layout helps create a community feel rather than a sterile tasting room experience. Their approach to events, updates via newsletters, and active social media presence keep patrons engaged and informed about new releases and happenings. Moreover, offering a dog-friendly patio adds a layer of warmth and inclusiveness that many breweries overlook. These elements collectively make The Mousetrap a standout spot where the quality of beer meets the quality of social experience.
How can I plan a visit or a party at The Mousetrap?
Planning a visit to Off Color Brewing's Taproom is straightforward due to their open and inclusive operational style. The taproom is open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 10 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays extend until midnight. Groups should note that while there are no reservations or table holds on weekends, weekday visits may offer some space-holding options if arranged in advance by contacting the taproom directly. This flexibility suits spontaneous meetups as well as more thoughtful plans. Since food is not served onsite, you can bring your favorite dishes and should remember to bring plates and cutlery for convenience. Large parties can coordinate with the taproom to see if the space can be held on certain weekdays, although buyouts are not currently available. The well-communicated house rules such as 21+ only after 6 pm, no table service, and outdoor dog policy ensure a smooth experience for all visitors. Signing up for their newsletter or following them on Instagram provides the latest updates on events and beer releases so your visit can align with festivities or specialty offerings.
What should I know about the taproom atmosphere and facilities?
The atmosphere at The Mousetrap is a welcoming blend of industrial chic and casual comfort, designed to suit both lively conversations and relaxed sipping. The indoor seating is spacious with communal tables, encouraging socializing among friends or even striking up conversations with new acquaintances. Outside, the patio offers a refreshing open-air environment to enjoy drinks especially during warmer months and is dog-friendly, enhancing the experience for pet owners. The staff are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, contributing to a helpful and inviting vibe. While there is no table service, ordering directly at the bar allows efficient service and access to a menu featuring 16 rotating beers on draft plus canned and bottled options, cider, liquor, and wine. Free Wi-Fi makes it easy to stay connected or entertain your group with games or streaming content. The overall experience is one of unpretentious quality and community spirit, making it ideal for groups seeking both great beer and lively social interaction.
What types of beverages will I find at Off Color Brewing Taproom?
At Off Color Brewing’s Taproom, you will find an exciting and varied selection of 16 Off Color brews available on tap at any given time, featuring styles and flavors that challenge the conventional beer palette. Their lineup includes specialties like the "Beer for Beaches," which is hailed as a standout with its refreshing, crushable quality ideal for summer gatherings. Alongside their flagship and seasonal brews, the taproom also offers a variety of canned and bottled beers for those who prefer something different or want to take some home. To complement the diverse beer selection, they provide guest ciders and a full bar stocked with a range of liquors and wines, ensuring that everyone in your group finds something enjoyable to drink. This extensive beverage diversity makes The Mousetrap a strong choice for groups with varied tastes and preferences, perfect for mixing and matching drinks during your visit.
How accessible and convenient is The Mousetrap for visitors?
Located at 1460 N Kingsbury in Chicago, The Mousetrap is easy to reach from many parts of the city especially for those seeking a lively neighborhood atmosphere. The taproom offers free Wi-Fi, a convenience appreciated by groups who may want to check event details or share photos while relaxing. It operates with a credit card-only payment policy, making transactions quick and simple in today’s cashless environment. The hours of operation, especially the extended late-night hours on weekends, provide ample opportunity for diverse scheduling needs without rush. The no-reservations policy on weekends encourages a welcoming, drop-in style social environment, though it requires some patience on busy days. Dog-owners appreciate the dog-friendly patio that allows pets to join their owners outside, enhancing accessibility for animal lovers. The combination of location, open seating, and modern amenities ensures The Mousetrap is both a convenient and comfortable venue for spontaneous or planned gatherings.
This comprehensive overview should guide anyone interested in hosting a vibrant and enjoyable meetup at Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap, highlighting why it is an ideal spot for friends and family to gather, explore unique beers, and create lasting memories in a great atmosphere.