When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Printer's Row Brewing
Why Printer's Row Brewing is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Printers Row Brewing is a standout microbrewery located in Chicago's Northwest Side neighborhood of Jefferson Park. Renowned for its diverse range of craft beers, the brewery offers something for every palate, from their crisp and citrusy Bookbinder Blonde brewed with New Zealand hops to rich and complex dark ales like the Cannonball Porter. The welcoming taproom is housed in a distinctive wedge-shaped building, providing an intimate setting with just enough space for a handful of tables, a bar, and a four-barrel brewing system that produces nearly all beers on tap. This spot shines for its family-friendly and community-oriented atmosphere, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends and enjoy quality brews in a relaxed environment. Visitors can savor unique offerings such as the creamy vanilla bean-infused Out of Sorts brown ale, a peanut butter and cacao nib stout, and the zestful Party Parrot witbier with lime zest, showcasing the brewery’s creative spirit. Although food options onsite are limited to curated cheese, olives, crackers, and pickles from Logan Square’s Beautiful Rind, guests are encouraged to bring snacks from nearby eateries, enhancing the social and casual vibe. With a strong commitment to craft, community, and quality, Printer's Row Brewing is a perfect gathering place for both casual beer drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Here's what people think of Printer's Row Brewing
As of recent, Printer's Row Brewing holds a 4.9-star rating based on 131 reviews.
Reviews of Printers Row Brewing highlight its impressive 4.9-star rating based on over 130 user reviews, reflecting a strong positive consensus among patrons. Many reviewers praise the brewery for its welcoming and community-focused atmosphere, which makes it a comfortable and friendly place to enjoy craft beers. The creativity and flavor variety of their beer lineup, especially flagship options like the Bookbinder Blonde and Cannonball Porter, receive frequent acclaim. Enthusiasts appreciate the brewery’s willingness to experiment, noted in offerings like the Mexican hot chocolate stout with chilies and the vanilla-infused brown ale, which provide a unique tasting experience. Positive feedback often mentions the approachable and knowledgeable staff, the intimate and cozy taproom setting, and the ability to bring outside food, which enhances the overall visit. On the other hand, some negative remarks focus on the limited space available in the taproom and the currently minimal onsite food offerings, which might not suit those looking for a full dining experience. Plans for expansion such as a sidewalk patio and crowlers to-go are viewed positively, indicating growth and enhanced customer experience in the future. Overall, the review consensus confirms Printer's Row Brewing as a beloved local spot distinguished by quality beer, community appeal, and a relaxed vibe—it’s a must-visit for those seeking authentic Chicago craft beer culture.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Carlos Soria
Great beer! Dark iron and the jalapeño were both excellent. Highly recommended. Great place, staff was great. We’ll go back next weekend.
Matthew Zachar
Great beers and a nice variety - not just 8 different IPAs! Clean, friendly, small but comfortable.
Salomon Lino
Great addition to the neighborhood. Casual and inviting will definitely be back. Dark Adaptation is my fav so far. They have plans for an outdoor beer garden that will be dog friendly. You can bring your own food. You can also order from Joe's and delivery fee is waived.
SE Allen
Mason Street is my favorite, but a lot of great beers. Super friendly staff. Great place!
Liam Boyle
Awesome addition to the neighborhood, great beer selection, good prices, friendly staff, sports on TV. Also heard they are opening a dog friendly patio. I almost didn't post this to keep it a hidden gem, a must go!
How to reach Printer's Row Brewing
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Why Printer's Row Brewing may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Printer’s Row Brewing with your friends is an exceptional choice for several compelling reasons. First, the brewery boasts an outstanding rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 130 reviews, reflecting widespread appreciation for its atmosphere, quality brews, and welcoming vibe. This impressive reputation promises a consistently enjoyable experience, making it a reliable spot to gather and catch up with friends or family. Located in the Jefferson Park neighborhood of Chicago, Printer’s Row Brewing has the charm of a neighborhood staple with a rich history that began in the South Loop, named after Chicago’s famed Printer’s Row district. Despite being roughly 11 miles northwest of its namesake, the brewery keeps its roots evident in its name and craft. The space itself is intimate yet inviting, offering enough seating to accommodate groups comfortably without feeling overcrowded. The brewmasters’ passion is evident in every pint, with diverse offerings ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth porters and unique flavored ales. For a group looking to enjoy a casual afternoon or an evening of conversation over great beer, Printer’s Row’s friendly atmosphere coupled with top-tier beer selection makes it a perfect rally point.
What types of activities can you enjoy at Printer’s Row Brewing?
Printer’s Row Brewing caters to a variety of social activities that make it ideal for group meetups. The primary draw is, of course, their expertly crafted beer selection. For groups with varied tastes, Printer’s Row has something to satisfy everyone—from their popular 81 West IPA to the citrusy Party Parrot wit and the smooth, vanilla-infused Out of Sorts brown ale. This diversity encourages beer tasting sessions where friends can sample different styles and find their favorites, creating a lively, shared experience. The intimate taproom features just enough space for tables, a bar area, and cozy seating arrangements where groups can engage in easy conversation without overwhelming noise. Though the onsite food options are limited to gourmet cheese, olives, pickles, and crackers provided by local vendors, guests are welcome to bring in food from nearby restaurants, such as Earl’s BBQ or Hagen’s Fish Market, which adds a pleasant flexibility for group meals. Additionally, the brewery often features TVs and a relaxed setting for watching sports or local events, making it a natural spot for casual socializing and entertainment.
Why is Printer’s Row Brewing perfect for group meetups and social gatherings?
Printer’s Row Brewing stands out as a top choice for groups because of its blend of charm, quality, and community feel. The intimate size of the taproom mingled with its cozy ambiance fosters excellent social interaction, ideal for reconnecting with friends or celebrating special occasions in a relaxed environment. The brewery’s location in a quiet corner of Jefferson Park means groups are less likely to be disturbed by the bustle of the city, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere perfect for extended conversations and laughter. Furthermore, the brewery’s openness to guests bringing their own food means everyone can tailor their experience to their liking, whether they prefer casual snacks or a full meal from local favorites. The knowledgeable staff are enthusiastic about their craft, often happy to share the story behind each brew and recommend selections based on your group’s preferences, enhancing the social experience. Finally, the brewery’s hours, open late on weekends and into the evening midweek, accommodate varied schedules, so your group can easily find a convenient time to gather.
How does Printer’s Row Brewing foster a community vibe?
One of Printer’s Row Brewing’s most appealing aspects is its emphasis on community and connection. Founded by two homebrewers passionate about crafting unique, locally inspired beers, the brewery maintains a strong connection to Chicago’s broader brewing culture and its neighborhoods. The personal approach by the founders and staff is felt throughout the brewery, cultivating a welcoming environment where patrons feel more like friends than customers. This sense of belonging encourages frequent visits not just by small groups but by a growing loyal customer base who appreciate the authenticity and care that goes into everything from the brewing process to customer service. Printer’s Row also supports local businesses by sourcing their cheese and snacks from nearby vendors, strengthening neighborhood ties. The simple yet purposeful setting—featuring local art, community-focused events, and plans to expand amenities like a sidewalk patio—further solidifies its role as a communal gathering spot where people come not only to enjoy beer but to connect.
What makes the beer selection at Printer’s Row Brewing special?
The beer selection at Printer’s Row Brewing is a significant reason why it’s an ideal meetup spot for friends and family. The founders, Virg Mazzeo and John Wolf, bring a homebrewing passion to the commercial scene, resulting in beers that are thoughtfully crafted and distinctive. Their flagship IPA, 81 West, pays homage to the local 81W bus route, reflecting the brewery’s deep Chicago roots. Beyond hearty, hop-forward beers, Printer’s Row excels in delivering balance and uniqueness in their lineup—with options like the citrusy, refreshing Party Parrot wit, or the rich Cannonball Porter, which even has a barrel-aged variant for beer aficionados seeking complexity. The variety allows groups to explore different beer styles together, making a visit feel like an educational and sensory experience. This range ensures that even those new to craft beer or with diverse tastes can find something enjoyable. The brewery’s relatively small four-barrel system means each batch is carefully monitored, enhancing quality and freshness, a detail that beer lovers appreciate deeply.
Are there any special features or future plans to enhance the group experience?
Printer’s Row Brewing may be understated in its current setup, but the owners have clear ambitions to improve the venue further, which will make it even more attractive for groups. Plans are underway to add a sidewalk patio, which will dramatically enhance the outdoor social space, perfect for warmer months when groups want fresh air alongside their brews. Crowler cans to-go are also in development, which will make it easier for friends to take home their favorite beers and share them beyond the taproom visit. These features, combined with the already strong community focus, demonstrate the brewery’s commitment to evolving its offerings to meet the needs of its patrons. Additionally, while the brewery currently offers only simple roomy tables and a couple of TVs, the welcoming and casual environment encourages spontaneous celebrations or planned gatherings such as birthday parties, meetups, or after-work drinks. The ongoing improvements signal a dedication to continuously providing a memorable and comfortable experience for every guest.
How accessible and convenient is Printer’s Row Brewing for groups?
Located at 4801 N. Austin Ave. in Chicago’s Jefferson Park neighborhood, Printer’s Row Brewing is very accessible to residents and visitors alike. The brewery benefits from its proximity to public transportation, including the 81W bus route, making it easy for groups to reach without worrying about parking. The surrounding neighborhood is quieter than downtown Chicago areas, offering a more relaxed vibe while still being well connected to city amenities. The brewery’s operating hours are convenient for social gatherings, opening in the late afternoon and staying open late on weekends, accommodating different schedules whether your group prefers a weekend afternoon or weekday evening meetup. The option to bring your own food also makes planning group outings simpler by reducing logistical hassles. All these factors combine to make Printer’s Row a practical and inviting venue to organize and enjoy group events.
In summary, Printer’s Row Brewing combines exceptional brews, a warm and comfortable environment, and a strong sense of community to create a perfect meeting place for friends and family. Whether you seek a low-key gathering spot for after-work drinks, a weekend hangout, or a tasting adventure with a small crowd, Printer’s Row offers an inviting setting that pays tribute to Chicago’s vibrant brewing culture while prioritizing guest experience above all else.