Joliet, Illinois boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s sure to delight beer enthusiasts. This city, located southwest of Chicago, offers a diverse array of breweries and taprooms serving up unique and flavorful brews. From bold IPAs to smooth lagers, Joliet’s craft beer offerings reflect the character and creativity of the region.
Local favorites like Elder Brewing, Mad Hatchet Brewing, and Will County Brewing Company have put Joliet on the map for beer lovers. These establishments not only serve exceptional craft beers but also provide welcoming atmospheres for patrons to enjoy their drinks. Visitors and residents alike can explore the city’s beer culture through brewery tours, tasting events, and beer festivals held throughout the year.
Craft beer bars such as Craft’d, Industry Tap House, and Chicago Street Pub further enhance Joliet’s beer landscape. These venues often feature rotating taps showcasing both local brews and selections from across the country. With its growing reputation for quality craft beer, Joliet has become a destination for those seeking to experience the best of Illinois’ brewing traditions.
The Craft Beer Scene in Joliet
Joliet’s craft beer scene has grown significantly in recent years, offering a diverse range of locally brewed options. The city’s proximity to Chicago has influenced its beer culture, while still maintaining a unique local identity.
History and Growth
Craft beer in Joliet began to flourish in the early 2010s. Several local breweries opened their doors, catering to the growing demand for artisanal beers. Elder Brewing and Mad Hatchet Brewing were among the pioneers, establishing themselves as cornerstones of Joliet’s craft beer community.
These breweries focused on creating unique flavors that reflected the city’s character. They experimented with local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques, setting themselves apart from mass-produced beers.
The growth continued with the addition of craft beer bars and taprooms. Chicago Street Pub became a popular destination for beer enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of local and regional craft beers.
Influence of Chicago’s Beer Culture
Joliet’s craft beer scene has been significantly influenced by Chicago’s thriving beer culture. Many Joliet brewers gained experience working in Chicago’s established breweries before starting their own ventures.
This connection has led to collaborations between Joliet and Chicago breweries, resulting in unique limited-edition beers. These partnerships have helped put Joliet on the map for craft beer enthusiasts throughout Illinois.
Chicago’s influence is also evident in the styles of beer produced in Joliet. Local breweries often create their own versions of popular Chicago styles, such as hazy IPAs and barrel-aged stouts.
Despite this influence, Joliet’s breweries maintain their distinct identity. They often incorporate local themes and ingredients, creating beers that represent the city’s heritage and character.
Notable Breweries in Joliet
Joliet’s craft beer scene boasts several standout breweries. These establishments offer unique flavors, inviting atmospheres, and a taste of local culture.
Elder Brewing Co
Elder Brewing Co, located at 218 E Cass St, has become a cornerstone of Joliet’s craft beer community. Founded by a passionate family of brewers, Elder offers a diverse range of styles.
Their taproom features a rotating selection of house-made beers. Popular choices include their crisp American lager and bold IPAs.
Elder hosts regular events, fostering a sense of community. Live music nights and food truck partnerships are common.
The brewery’s commitment to quality is evident in their brewing process. They use locally-sourced ingredients when possible, supporting the regional economy.
MyGrain Brewing
MyGrain Brewing occupies a historic space in downtown Joliet. Housed in the former Rock Island Railroad depot, the brewery blends industrial charm with modern brewing techniques.
Their beer lineup includes:
- Robust stouts
- Hop-forward IPAs
- Seasonal specialties
MyGrain’s food menu complements their brews. They offer pub-style dishes with a gourmet twist.
The spacious taproom features original architectural elements. Large windows provide views of passing trains, adding to the unique atmosphere.
MyGrain frequently collaborates with local artists and musicians. This commitment to the arts scene strengthens their community ties.
Mad Hatchet Brewing
Mad Hatchet Brewing brings a bold approach to Joliet’s beer landscape. Their name reflects their adventurous brewing philosophy.
Signature beers include:
- Axe IPA – A hop-heavy India Pale Ale
- Lumberjack Stout – A rich, coffee-infused dark beer
- Hatchet Job Blonde – An easy-drinking blonde ale
The taproom’s rustic decor creates a cozy, cabin-like feel. Wooden accents and themed artwork reinforce the brand’s identity.
Mad Hatchet often experiments with small-batch brews. These limited releases give patrons a reason to visit regularly.
The brewery hosts axe-throwing events, combining entertainment with their craft beer offerings.
Will County Brewing Company
Will County Brewing Company embraces local heritage in their beers and branding. Their name pays homage to the region they call home.
The brewery specializes in traditional styles with modern twists. Their core lineup includes:
- Crisp pilsners
- Malty amber ales
- Fruit-infused wheat beers
Will County’s taproom design incorporates local historical elements. Photos and artifacts celebrate Joliet’s rich past.
The brewery actively participates in community events. They often partner with local charities for fundraising initiatives.
Will County’s commitment to sustainability sets them apart. They implement eco-friendly practices in their brewing process and packaging.
Local Brewpubs and Bars
Joliet boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several standout establishments. These venues offer unique atmospheres and impressive selections of local and regional brews.
Chicago Street Pub
Chicago Street Pub stands as a cornerstone of Joliet’s craft beer culture. Located at 75 North Chicago Street, this establishment combines the charm of a traditional pub with an extensive craft beer menu.
The pub features a rotating tap list showcasing local Illinois breweries alongside national craft favorites. Their knowledgeable staff can guide patrons through beer styles and flavor profiles.
Chicago Street Pub’s food menu complements its beer offerings, with hearty pub fare designed to pair well with various brews. The venue hosts regular events, including tap takeovers and meet-the-brewer nights.
The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers. Outdoor seating is available during warmer months, adding to the pub’s appeal.
Fritz’s Pour House
Fritz’s Pour House has earned a reputation as a go-to destination for craft beer lovers in Joliet. This bar prides itself on its carefully curated selection of craft beers from across the Midwest and beyond.
The tap list at Fritz’s is constantly evolving, ensuring repeat visitors always find something new to try. They offer flights for those who want to sample multiple beers in one sitting.
Fritz’s interior features a classic bar layout with ample seating and TVs for sports viewing. The staff is known for their beer knowledge and friendly service.
Regular beer-centric events keep the atmosphere lively and attract a diverse crowd of beer enthusiasts. Fritz’s also offers a solid food menu, with dishes that pair well with their beer selection.
Bottle Shops and Liquor Stores
Joliet offers several options for craft beer enthusiasts to purchase their favorite brews. These local bottle shops and liquor stores provide a wide selection of craft beers from regional and national breweries.
Cardinal Liquors
Cardinal Liquors stocks an impressive array of craft beers from Illinois and beyond. Their knowledgeable staff can help customers find new and exciting brews to try. The store often features seasonal and limited-release beers from popular craft breweries.
Cardinal Liquors also carries a selection of local spirits and wines. They offer weekly specials on select craft beer six-packs and bombers. The shop’s loyalty program allows frequent customers to earn points towards discounts on future purchases.
Ranch Liquors
Ranch Liquors boasts a dedicated craft beer section with both refrigerated and shelf-stable options. They carry beers from well-known craft breweries as well as smaller, up-and-coming producers.
The store holds regular tastings to introduce customers to new craft beers. Ranch Liquors’ mix-and-match six-pack option lets shoppers create custom variety packs. They also offer keg rentals for larger gatherings and events.
United Liquor Mart
United Liquor Mart features an extensive craft beer selection, including many hard-to-find and limited-edition releases. The store’s beer buyer works directly with distributors to secure rare and sought-after craft brews.
Customers can join United Liquor Mart’s email list for updates on new arrivals and special releases. The shop offers a temperature-controlled storage area for cellaring age-worthy beers. United Liquor Mart also hosts occasional meet-the-brewer events with representatives from local craft breweries.
Brewery Tours and Tasting Experiences
Joliet offers several options for beer enthusiasts to explore local breweries and sample craft brews. Elder Brewing and Mad Hatchet Brewing are two popular spots that welcome visitors for tours and tastings.
These breweries provide opportunities to see the brewing process up close and learn about different beer styles. Knowledgeable staff guide guests through the facilities, explaining the equipment and techniques used.
Tasting flights allow visitors to sample a variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Many breweries also offer food pairings to complement their brews.
For those wanting to explore multiple breweries, organized beer tours are available. Companies like Chicago Beer Experience and South Shore Brew Bus offer guided excursions to several Joliet area breweries in one trip.
Some local breweries host special events like beer release parties or seasonal festivals. These provide unique chances to try limited edition brews and meet other craft beer fans.
Visitors can expect a casual, welcoming atmosphere at Joliet’s craft breweries. Whether touring solo or with a group, brewery experiences offer insights into the local beer scene and the chance to discover new favorite brews.
Regional Craft Beer Events
Joliet hosts several exciting craft beer events throughout the year. The city’s vibrant beer scene comes alive with festivals and tastings that showcase local and regional brews.
One popular event is the Joliet Beer Festival, held annually in the downtown area. This celebration features over 50 craft beers from Illinois breweries, including several from Joliet itself.
Beer enthusiasts can also look forward to the Summer Ale Fest. This outdoor event combines craft beer tasting with live music and food trucks, creating a lively atmosphere for attendees.
For those interested in running and beer, the Illinois Brewery Running Series makes a stop in Joliet. Participants enjoy a 5k run followed by craft beer samples from local breweries.
Many Joliet bars and pubs host their own craft beer events. These include tap takeovers, meet-the-brewer nights, and seasonal beer releases. These smaller gatherings offer intimate settings to explore new brews.
Craft beer lovers should mark their calendars for:
- Joliet Beer Festival (June)
- Summer Ale Fest (August)
- Illinois Brewery Running Series – Joliet Stop (Various dates)
- Oktoberfest celebrations (September-October)
These events provide excellent opportunities to taste a wide range of craft beers and connect with fellow enthusiasts in Joliet.
Pairing Food and Craft Beer
Joliet’s craft beer scene offers excellent opportunities for food and beer pairings. Local breweries and restaurants often collaborate to create harmonious flavor combinations.
Craft beers can enhance the dining experience by complementing or contrasting with food flavors. IPAs, with their hoppy bitterness, pair well with spicy dishes or rich, fatty foods.
Stouts and porters, known for their roasted notes, complement chocolate desserts and grilled meats. Their robust flavors stand up to the intensity of barbecued or smoked foods.
For lighter fare, wheat beers or lagers offer refreshing counterpoints. These styles work well with salads, seafood, and poultry dishes.
When pairing, consider matching intensity levels. A bold, high-alcohol beer might overpower delicate flavors, while a light beer could be lost alongside strongly flavored foods.
Many Joliet restaurants feature craft beer pairing suggestions on their menus. This helps diners explore new flavor combinations and appreciate the complexity of local brews.
Experimenting with different pairings can lead to surprising discoveries. Beer’s versatility allows for creative matchups that wine might not achieve.
Some popular pairings in Joliet include:
- IPA with spicy tacos
- Stout with chocolate cake
- Wheat beer with light salads
- Amber ale with pizza
Local brewpubs often offer tasting flights paired with small bites, allowing patrons to explore multiple combinations in one sitting.
Craft Beer Varieties and Recommendations
Joliet’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of flavors and styles to suit every palate. Local breweries produce a range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers and rich stouts.
Popular craft beer varieties found in Joliet include:
- American IPAs
- Pale Ales
- Wheat Beers
- Porters
- Stouts
Elder Brewing is known for its innovative brews. Their flagship IPA combines citrusy hops with a balanced malt backbone.
Mad Hatchet Brewing specializes in bold, flavorful ales. Their seasonal offerings often incorporate unique ingredients like local fruits or spices.
For those who enjoy lighter beers, Will County Brewing Company crafts refreshing lagers and pilsners perfect for warm summer days.
Craft beer enthusiasts can explore these local favorites:
- Elder Brewing’s Hazy IPA
- Mad Hatchet’s Coffee Porter
- Will County Brewing’s Honey Wheat Ale
Many Joliet bars and restaurants feature rotating taps of local craft beers. Chicago Street Pub offers an extensive selection of regional brews, making it an ideal spot for beer tasting.
Craft’d, a popular taproom, curates a diverse beer list showcasing the best of Illinois craft brewing. Their knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on individual preferences.
Exploring Beyond Joliet
Craft beer enthusiasts can venture beyond Joliet to discover more excellent breweries and cideries in the surrounding area. The nearby towns of Plainfield and Naperville offer unique drinking experiences, while 2 Fools Cider provides a refreshing alternative to beer.
Plainfield and Naperville Breweries
Plainfield boasts several craft breweries worth visiting. Chicago Brewing Company – Plainfield produces a range of classic and innovative beer styles. Their taproom offers a cozy atmosphere to sample their latest creations.
Naperville’s thriving beer scene includes Solemn Oath Brewery, known for Belgian-inspired and barrel-aged beers. Alter Brewing Company crafts a diverse lineup of ales and lagers in their modern facility.
Noon Whistle Brewing in Naperville specializes in session beers and sours. Their spacious taproom features rotating taps and a friendly vibe.
2 Fools Cider
Located in Naperville, 2 Fools Cider offers a unique alternative to craft beer. This cidery produces a variety of hard ciders using locally sourced apples.
Their flagship dry cider provides a crisp, refreshing option for those seeking gluten-free beverages. 2 Fools also experiments with fruit-infused and barrel-aged ciders.
Visitors can enjoy flights and pints in the rustic tasting room. The cidery often hosts events and live music, creating a lively atmosphere for cider enthusiasts.
Supporting Local: The Impact of Choosing Joliet Brews
Choosing craft beers from Joliet’s local breweries has a significant impact on the community. By opting for these locally produced brews, consumers directly support the city’s economy and job market.
Joliet’s craft beer scene contributes to the preservation of brewing traditions. Local brewers often incorporate regional ingredients and revive historical brewing styles, celebrating the area’s cultural heritage through their creations.
These breweries frequently collaborate with nearby businesses and suppliers. They source ingredients from local farmers and partner with food vendors, creating a network of economic interdependence within Joliet.
Community involvement is a hallmark of Joliet’s craft beer industry. Many breweries organize events, sponsor local causes, and participate in charitable activities, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
The presence of craft breweries enhances Joliet’s tourism appeal. Beer enthusiasts from surrounding areas are drawn to the city to experience its unique brews, boosting local hospitality and retail sectors.
Joliet’s craft beer industry also promotes sustainability. Many local breweries implement environmentally friendly practices, from water conservation to using locally sourced ingredients, reducing their carbon footprint.
By choosing Joliet’s craft beers, consumers not only enjoy high-quality, diverse brews but also contribute to the city’s economic and cultural vibrancy.
