Goose Island Brewing Company

Description:

• Some of the best beer in Chicago is produced by the company that runs this restaurant (although the brewing equipment is located elsewhere). In the course of a year, Goose Island produces about 100 varieties of lagers, ales, stouts, pilsners, and porters that change with the seasons. That means you're pretty much obligated to try the beer while you're here; there are usually at least 10 different varieties on tap. If you don't want to commit to a full pint, you can order 6-ounce sampler glasses for your very own tasting session.

  The food here is far more than an afterthought. Cut-above bar food includes burgers (including a killer, dragon-breath-inducing Stilton burger with roasted garlic), sandwiches (pulled pork, blackened catfish po' boy, chicken Caesar), and some serious salads. Goose Island is also known for its addictive homemade potato chips, doughy Bavarian pretzels, fresh-brewed root beer, and orange cream soda. Given its location, Goose Island is at its liveliest -- and most crowded -- during baseball season, from April through September. Flatscreen TVs throughout the room are tuned in to the Cubs game, and fans don't hesitate to shout abuse at the Loveable Losers' latest foul-up. When the weather's nice, you can also hang out in the enclosed beer garden.

  Note to night owls: The main kitchen closes at 10pm, but a late-night menu is available until midnight.

• © Frommer's 2013