Brewing On Route 66: Part One

From a Michelin starred gastropub in Chicago to a nostalgic Route 66-themed brewery in Wilmington, there is no shortage of innovative breweries along The First Hundred Miles. From new takes on traditional flavors to truly groundbreaking small-batch craft beer, there’s something for every palette. Here’s the first half of our guide to must-see craft breweries along The First Hundred Miles of The Mother Road.

Moody Tongue Brewing Company

2515 S. Wabash, Chicago, IL

Looking for a brewery with a refined palate? Chicago’s own Moody Tongue Brewing Company was given two coveted Michelin stars in 2020, only the second American brewpub to receive such an honor. Chef Jared Wentworth has developed a winning tasting menu dining concept, housed directly inside the popular brewery building. Each course of this ingredient-driven menu is paired with a signature beer, echoing Moody Tounge’s commitment to culinary brewing. Beyond this innovative dining option, you’ll find a highly varied line of artisanal beers, inspired by tastes from nearly every corner of the globe. Look for novel beers like their Toasted Rice Lager and Shaved Black Truffle Pilsner, or a decadent Bourbon Barrel Aged 12 Layer Cake Imperial Stout.

Marz Community Brewing Co.

3630 S Iron St, Chicago, IL

Cool warehouse vibes emanate from this community conscious brewery located in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago’s south side. Enjoy a cold craft beverage while you watch the intricate brewing process, visible from behind a large glass partition inside Marz’s restaurant. Beyond serving up an ever-revolving selection of inspired beers, Marz is committed to making batches of beer in a sustainable and socially responsible manner. The result: experimental and accessible beers, perfect for any palate. Located in a great throwback area of the city, this unique warehouse brewery is a must visit location for Route 66 travelers.

Flapjack Brewery

6833 Stanley Ave, Berwyn, IL

Wood fired pizza compliments the fresh beer on tap at Berwyn’s Flapjack Brewery. Here you’ll find made to order wood fired pies pairing perfectly with Flapjack’s  wide variety of small batch beers. Sporting a revolving tap, from hoppy IPAs to rich coffee stouts, there’s no shortage of options for craft beer lovers to explore. Stop by on Sundays from noon to 5pm to taste their house-made specialty sandwich, called a ‘panuozzo’, cooked fresh on their wood fire grill. Choose from indoor and outdoor seating, or grab a crowler from their beer-to-go menu offering you the freshest brews that you can enjoy back at your home or hotel room.

Black Horizon Brewing Co.

7560 S Quincy St, Willowbrook, IL

You’ll find a real passion for craft brewing at Black Horizon Brewing Co., where you’ll find the owner/brewers tending bar and talking shop with their legion of local fans. Dubbed ‘a small microbrewery,’ Black Horizon has been turning out award winning barrel aged beer since its inception. Featuring a rotating variety of new and old favorites, you never know what craft masterpiece you’ll find on tap. Black Horizon’s relaxed taproom atmosphere is the perfect place to take a load off and play a selection from their libraries of board games and vintage video games, ideal after a long day on Route 66. Find a new favorite beer? Flights, howlers, growlers and 4 pack cans are also offered to go. Don’t miss their ‘Trifecta’ sampler, consisting of three 5oz pours per order.

Miskatonic Brewing Co.

1000 N Frontage Road C, Darien, IL

This HP Lovecraft-inspired brewery is perfect for fans of horror or the macabre, or any small-batch craft beer enthusiasts. Hidden in an industrial area, just off Route 66, Miskatonic Brewing Company offers up some of the finest brews along the Mother Road. The taproom features up to thirteen craft beers at one time, alongside a line of cider and hard seltzer selections. You’ll also find dog-friendly outdoor seating and in-depth brewery tours, which include tastings and souvenirs. Growlers and cans available to go, so you can take a liquid souvenir with you along your Route 66 trip.