When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Twisted Hippo
Why Twisted Hippo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located at the crossroads of Albany Park, Irving Park, Ravenswood Manor, and Horner Park in Chicago, Twisted Hippo is a unique and lively craft brewery and taproom known for its bold personality and community focus. With a bright, colorful atmosphere highlighted by a giant pink hippo mascot bearing antlers, pig’s tail, and wings, the brewery embodies its philosophy to 'Embrace Your Strange.' Beyond the visual appeal, Twisted Hippo crafts artful beers that combine creativity with quality, making it an inviting space to gather with friends. Their taproom features thoughtfully designed and sustainably sourced interiors made to accommodate guests comfortably. The friendly and eclectic staff add to the inclusive vibe, ensuring every visitor feels welcome regardless of quirks or backgrounds. Twisted Hippo not only offers a diverse range of craft beers but also serves delicious food, ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner, accompanied by a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. Accessibility is simple with ample operating hours throughout the week (closed Mondays) and options for delivery. Its location in the vibrant District Brew Yards adds to its charm as a neighborhood hub where locals and visitors alike enjoy quality brews in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Twisted Hippo
As of recent, Twisted Hippo holds a 4.5-star rating based on 220 reviews.
Customer reviews for Twisted Hippo paint a picture of a well-loved and lively local brewery with a solid 4.5-star rating from 220 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the establishment for its fun and colorful environment, noting the staff as particularly friendly and welcoming, which enhances the overall social experience. Many highlight the excellent quality of the craft beers and the unique character and creativity infused into both the brews and the space itself. The food menu also receives positive comments for complementing the beer offerings well, making it a great spot for casual hangouts, brunches, and evening drinks. However, some reviews note a few downsides such as the brewery sometimes trying to be 'too hip,' which may come across as a bit over the top for certain visitors. There are occasional remarks about the venue not being very crowded on weekends, which can be a positive or negative depending on guest preference for atmosphere. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus remains favorable, with customers enjoying the blend of good beer, food, and community vibe. Overall, Twisted Hippo is recognized for its creativity, inclusivity, and the genuine sense of belonging it fosters among guests, affirming its status as a cherished neighborhood gathering place.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sid & Nidhi Bansal
What an experience even in the new normal. Very welcoming owner and brewer and to explain the ordering process. The food and the beer pairing was just too good. The beer labels are just a masterpiece to admire. We got the pretzel nuggets and the BYO Tots which was a lot for two people. Tip: take a picture of the beers available from the screen as the online menu may not have descriptions
Michelle C
Pros – the colors inside a very cheerful, there is ample seating, generally easy to find parking. Old fashions were delicious and the ordering app worked well. I like the payment system (what you see is what you pay, no tip needed). Cons - feels impersonal due to the ordering system. No one came around to explain the menu to us or offer suggestions on the beers. There were also a lot of children in the bar, I get that it's family friendly but it felt a bit like Chuck E. Cheese. Also a hamburger and pork sandwich took almost 40 minutes to come out on a Friday which seems excessive for a night when there wasn't even a wait for a table.
Jansen Bridge
Went around 6:30 on a Tuesday which also happens to be Trivia night (starts at 7:30). Bartenders and staff were very attentive and nice. The wings were A+ crispy, juicy, sauce on the wings was perfect, tasty with not too much sauce. Accompanied it with a Two In The Bush IPA and would highly recommend. I looked at purchasing a four pack Togo but didn't see it.
Sam Keske
They may be trying to "Embrace the weird" a bit too forcibly with the winged hippolope, but it's hard not to love their beer, food, service, and mission. Well crafted variety of beers. The best salad I've had in years, with perfectly smoked chicken and sweet bacon. And all prices are set for a living wage without needing to add a tip. Highly recommended.
Mike R
Very cool atmosphere inside this brewery. Almost could be implanted into the river north area with the vibe. Unfortunately, for being a brewery their food far surpasses their beer. I would definitely would go back for food but probably not for beer until they destroy their current offerings and start from scratch. I appreciate the creativity, but the execution is just bad. Wait time is understandable given that they just opened. I’d give it time to let the hype wear down then I can easily see this being a no wait-max 25 minute wait. Service was ok, and the up stairs was a good idea for waiting for a table. But on a busy night plan on it being crammed. Pricing is high on beers and average on food.
How to reach Twisted Hippo
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Website: None
Why Twisted Hippo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Twisted Hippo with your friends? Twisted Hippo stands out as an ideal venue for group meetups due to its vibrant atmosphere, unique beverage offerings, and welcoming ambiance that instantly sets a joyful tone for any gathering. Located in Chicago, it boasts cheerful interior aesthetics featuring bright colors and playful decorations like pink cartoon hippos that create an inviting and fun environment perfect for celebration or casual hangouts. The spacious seating arrangements make it comfortable for groups of all sizes to settle in together without feeling cramped, promoting ease of conversation and socializing. Additionally, Twisted Hippo's innovative payment system — where prices include tax and tip, eliminating the awkwardness of splitting bills — makes hosting groups simpler and more transparent. Beyond the atmosphere, guests can enjoy a variety of quality craft beers and delicious cocktails, including standout Old Fashioneds, curated and served by owners and staff who are both knowledgeable and approachable. This combination of lively setting, hassle-free pricing, attentive service, and excellent drinks is why Twisted Hippo is a perfect rallying point for friends looking to enjoy a memorable outing together.
What activities can you enjoy at Twisted Hippo for a group meetup? Twisted Hippo offers a range of engaging activities that elevate the group experience beyond just food and drink. First and foremost, the venue is a brewpub with its own line of creative craft beers, allowing beer enthusiasts in your group to sample a variety of brews in small portions. This is excellent for groups who enjoy exploring new flavors and sharing their impressions. The bar also serves classic and inventive cocktails, with some drinks praised for their quality and presentation. For those who appreciate a relaxed dining experience with friends, Twisted Hippo offers a menu of bar-style bites including mac and cheese, burgers, corn dogs, cheese curds, and a spicy chicken sandwich that has been highlighted for its careful preparation and taste. The ample indoor dining space is clean, well-spaced, and suffused with cheerful décor that creates an energizing yet comfortable social setting. Adding to the camaraderie, there are arcade games onsite, providing a playful interactive element perfect for sparking friendly competition and prolonged entertainment for groups. These combined features ensure that a meetup at Twisted Hippo is lively, fun, and satisfying for everyone involved.
Why is Twisted Hippo ideal specifically for hosting group events? Twisted Hippo’s location, atmosphere, and service style cater perfectly to groups seeking a venue that balances casual comfort with engaging experiences. The spacious layout, with ample seating spread comfortably, avoids the overcrowding often found in popular brewpubs. This allows groups to converse easily without distraction or noise issues. The cheerful and colorful interior fosters a lighthearted mood that encourages connection and enjoyment among friends or family. Furthermore, Twisted Hippo’s payment system is designed to ease group logistics — pricing includes tax and tip so everyone knows exactly what they owe upfront, reducing payment confusion and speeding up the settling of bills at the end of the night. The staff is attentive but not intrusive, knowledgeable about beer and food selections, and readily helpful, which enhances group visits by making ordering quicker and simpler. It’s also worth noting that Twisted Hippo offers a diverse beverage menu that appeals to a wide range of tastes, from craft beer aficionados to cocktail lovers, ensuring every guest finds something appealing. Together, these features make Twisted Hippo a stress-free and welcoming choice for groups looking to enjoy quality time with good food, drinks, and atmosphere.
What makes the food and drink selection at Twisted Hippo special for a group? The food and drink menu at Twisted Hippo is thoughtfully curated to appeal to groups looking to share and try multiple items without breaking the bank or settling for generic bar food. The brewpub’s craft beers are celebrated for their quality and variety, ranging from hazy IPAs with citrusy notes to sweeter golden ales with honey and caramel flavors, giving beer lovers plenty to explore and talk about. Cocktail offerings include expertly made classics like Old Fashioneds, noted for their deliciousness and consistent quality. Food options feature elevated bar staples such as mac and cheese, hearty burgers, crispy cheese curds, and corn dogs served with fries. The spicy chicken sandwich receives particular praise for being well-cooked and flavorful. The small portions available make it easy for groups to order multiple dishes and share them tapas-style, which creates a communal dining experience. With everything priced all-included (tax and tip), groups can sample widely without concern over unexpected costs, enhancing the pleasure of discovering new favorites together. Ultimately, Twisted Hippo’s menu fosters both culinary exploration and social sharing, making it an excellent fit for group dining occasions.
How does the environment at Twisted Hippo enhance group interactions? The environment at Twisted Hippo significantly boosts the social experience for groups by combining aesthetic appeal, comfort, and interactive elements. Bright, colorful walls decorated with whimsical pink hippos and lively patterns create a cheerful and playful vibe that lifts spirits and promotes positive energy. The spacious seating with well-spaced tables provides enough room for groups to gather without feeling crowded, enabling easy conversation flow and group cohesion. The cleanliness and thoughtful layout add to comfort, allowing guests to relax fully in the setting. Moreover, the presence of arcade games introduces a unique dimension of entertainment that sparks friendly competition and keeps groups engaged beyond just talking or eating. Such activities can break the ice, fuel laughter, and turn a simple outing into a memorable shared experience. Friendly and knowledgeable staff add warmth to the atmosphere by engaging with guests personally, answering questions about drinks and food, and ensuring the group’s needs are met promptly. This combination of vivid decor, comfortable seating, playful games, and caring service cultivates an environment that encourages friends and family to bond, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company.
What customer experiences make Twisted Hippo stand out as a group venue? Twisted Hippo consistently earns praise for features that make group visits enjoyable and hassle-free. Customers often highlight the welcoming attitudes of the owners and brewers who contribute to a personalized experience even in a space that balances automation with approachability. The all-inclusive pricing model is another aspect frequently lauded, as it removes common tipping dilemmas and simplifies group bill settlements. Reviewers appreciate the quality and taste of both food and drinks, often noting that bar staples exceed expectations in flavor and preparation. The venue’s convenient location in Chicago is also a plus for groups wanting easy access without complicated travel. Positive feedback about the clean, cheerful décor and the presence of social activities like arcade games reinforce the idea that Twisted Hippo is not just another typical bar but a venue focused on creating a unique and enjoyable gathering space. Whether hosting a casual meetup or a special event, groups consistently find Twisted Hippo to be a place that combines comfort, quality, and fun, making it a highly recommended option.
Why should you consider Twisted Hippo for your next meetup? If you and your friends or family are looking for a place that can accommodate a lively and enjoyable meetup, Twisted Hippo offers a comprehensive package that few comparable venues match. It excels in providing an atmosphere that is simultaneously vibrant and comfortable, ensuring everyone can relax yet feel energized by the surroundings. The combination of excellent craft beers, creative cocktails, and carefully prepared bar food means there is something to satisfy all tastes. The inclusion of arcade games provides a lively entertainment option that encourages interaction and fun. Twisted Hippo’s thoughtful pricing model removes potential stress from bill splitting, helping the group focus on the good times rather than logistics. Most importantly, the friendly and attentive staff, along with welcoming ownership, ensure that visitors feel valued and taken care of from arrival through departure. Twisted Hippo’s reputation supported by positive reviews and a solid rating makes it a trustworthy and appealing venue for any group looking to share great drinks, food, and memorable moments together. For your next gathering, Twisted Hippo stands ready to offer a unique, fun, and hospitable experience.