Gastropubs in Chicago

Fountainhead

30s / 40s / After Work / Beer / Brunch

Party Earth Review Though the name evokes memories of a high school English assignment, Fountainhead’s moniker is actually a reference to a free-flowing source of craft booze rather than an homage to Ayn Rand. Located on an otherwise quiet corner, the gastropub draws in passersby with the warm light that illuminates its large windows, and ... more

1970 West Montrose Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640

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Longman & Eagle

Artsy / Artsy / Artsy Dresses

Party Earth Review Its motto is “Eat, Sleep, Whiskey,” which pretty much sums up the hipster and foodie paradise – and Michelin star-rated restaurant – that is Longman & Eagle. Unlike venues that normally get Michelin’s approval, however, L&E is devoid of white tablecloths and crystal glasses; instead, the vibe is casual, the décor minimal ... more

2657 North Kedzie Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647

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Public House

30s / Affluent / Bar Food / Beer / DJ

Party Earth Review Beer lovers in search of a new hangout will make a new home at Public House, a ten-thousand-square-foot gastropub that pours more than 120 labels, including its own seasonal brew produced in collaboration with Chicago’s Goose Island Brewery. Split into two distinct rooms by a grand stone entryway, the restaurant also boasts ... more

400 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60654

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The Bar on Buena

20s / 30s / 40s / After Work / Burgers

Reviewed by Chris M.

"The Bar on Buena or B.O.B. is really a gastropub/neighborhood bar tucked into a pretty residential area of Uptown that serves great food and drinks. ..." more

910 West Buena Avenue
Chicago, IL 60613

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George Street Pub

30s / 40s / Affluent / After Work

Party Earth Review Despite its unassuming brick façade and location on a desolate stretch of North Halsted Street, George Street Pub has managed to garner a loyal following of area yuppies and affluent locals since opening in early 2011. Situated between the bustling neighborhoods of Lincoln Park and Lakeview, the upscale yet laid-back gastropub ... more

2858 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60657

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Scofflaw

Ambient / Casual / Chill / Crowded

Reviewed by Joshua M.

"As a fan of anything related to the 1920's and The Great Gatsby, I was recommended this speakeasy-style bar from several friends and potential bootleg ..." more

3201 West Armitage Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647

In a city that has a love affair with food and beer, it’s no surprise that the gastropub trend is playing for keeps. Gastropubs in Chicago range in ambiance from polished downtown spots to scrappy neighborhood joints that feel like home, but they all take their food and beer programs really seriously. Beer lists may have a local focus or astound you with pages upon pages of brands presented in menus the size of novels. The food may rival many high-end restaurants in quality and daring, but the pub-like feel of Chicago gastropubs keep them unpretentious and welcoming.

The Hopleaf in Andersonville is perhaps the granddaddy of the Chicago gastropub scene. Hundreds of beers, many served in special glasses created for just that variety, go well with Belgian-style mussels and…octopus carpaccio. Why not?

Want to avoid elbowing through the permanent crowd installed at the Hopleaf? There are dozens of places with competing beer lists. The Map Room in Bucktown has a travel theme and stacks of National Geographics to keep you busy. Upstarts like Owen and Engine bring the concept to less popular neighborhoods, letting everyone in on foodie delights and rare Belgian brews, while downtown spots like The Publican and The Gage bring in scenesters and yuppies who want a rare low-key evening.

Gastropubs in Chicago have tapped into something natural in this city, and they aren’t declining in popularity anytime soon.