The Most Popular Beer in Chicago, Ranked

Choose the beer you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 23, 2024 06:39
Chicago, a city celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene, boasts a similarly dynamic craft beer landscape. Connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike may find it quite challenging to navigate the myriad of local brews. Establishing a consensus on the most popular beer can guide new residents and visitors towards standout selections and help them appreciate regional tastes. This live ranking system is fueled by community participation, allowing each user to cast a vote for their preferred brew. By contributing to this ongoing poll, users not only share their own experiences but also assist in shaping a resource that benefits the entire community. The result is an up-to-date listing reflective of current preferences and trends.

What Is the Most Popular Beer in Chicago?

  1. 1
    56
    points
    Goose Island IPA

    Goose Island IPA

    A hoppy and well-balanced IPA from one of Chicago's most famous breweries.
    • Type: India Pale Ale
    • ABV: 5.9%
  2. 2
    44
    points

    Revolution Anti-Hero IPA

    A bold, hop-forward IPA that's become a staple in the Chicago beer scene.
    • Type: India Pale Ale
    • ABV: 6.7%
  3. 3
    19
    points
    Lagunitas IPA

    Lagunitas IPA

    Though based in California, Lagunitas has a significant presence in Chicago with a brewery and taproom, making its IPA a local favorite.
    • Type: India Pale Ale
    • ABV: 6.2%
  4. 4
    14
    points

    Half Acre Daisy Cutter Pale Ale

    A west coast style pale ale that's floral and grassy with a touch of citrus.
    • Type: Pale Ale
    • ABV: 5.2%
  5. 5
    9
    points

    Three Floyds Zombie Dust

    A highly acclaimed pale ale known for its intense hop character and complexity.
    • Type: Pale Ale
    • ABV: 6.2%
  6. 6
    0
    points

    Pipeworks Ninja vs. Unicorn Double IPA

    A boldly hoppy double IPA with a strong malt backbone, representing Chicago's craft creativity.
    • Type: Double India Pale Ale
    • ABV: 8.0%
  7. 7
    0
    points

    Off Color Brewing Apex Predator

    A farmhouse ale that stands out for its dry, crisp taste and subtle fruitiness.
    • Type: Farmhouse Ale
    • ABV: 6.5%
  8. 8
    0
    points

    Marz Community Brewing Jungle Boogie

    An American Wheat Ale brewed with rooibos tea, offering a unique flavor profile.
    • Type: American Wheat Ale
    • ABV: 5.4%
  9. 9
    0
    points

    Moody Tongue Sliced Nectarine IPA

    A unique IPA that combines juicy nectarine flavors with a crisp hop finish.
    • Type: India Pale Ale
    • ABV: 5.9%
  10. 10
    0
    points

    Metropolitan Krankshaft Kölsch

    A light and crisp German-style Kölsch that's very approachable and refreshing.
    • Type: Kölsch
    • ABV: 5.0%

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular beer in Chicago. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or beer is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2110 views
  • 142 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each beer once every 24 hours. The rank of each beer is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Beer in Chicago

Goose Island IPA
Rank #1 for the most popular beer in Chicago: Goose Island IPA (Source)
Chicago has a rich history of beer brewing. The city’s beer culture dates back to the 19th century when German immigrants brought their brewing traditions. They established many breweries, setting the stage for Chicago's beer scene.

Today, Chicago boasts a vibrant craft beer community. Breweries in the city focus on quality and innovation. They experiment with different styles and flavors. This creativity has made Chicago a hub for beer enthusiasts.

Many local breweries have gained national recognition. They produce a wide range of beers, from pale ales to stouts. Each brewery has its unique touch, reflecting the diverse tastes of the city's residents. The local beer scene thrives on this diversity.

Festivals play a big role in Chicago’s beer culture. Events like beer tastings and brewery tours attract large crowds. These gatherings offer a chance to sample various beers and learn about brewing processes. They also foster a sense of community among beer lovers.

Chicago's bars and pubs contribute to the popularity of local beers. Many establishments feature extensive beer lists, showcasing the best of what the city has to offer. Bartenders often recommend local brews, encouraging patrons to try something new.

The city's support for local breweries extends to its restaurants. Many chefs pair their dishes with local beers, enhancing the dining experience. This trend has helped elevate the status of Chicago beers in the culinary world.

Chicago's beer culture also benefits from the city's commitment to quality. Local breweries adhere to strict brewing standards. They use high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. This dedication ensures that Chicago beers maintain a high level of excellence.

The city's climate plays a role too. Chicago's cold winters and warm summers influence beer preferences. In winter, darker, richer beers are popular. In summer, lighter, refreshing beers are in demand. This seasonal variation keeps the local beer scene dynamic.

Chicago's beer community is inclusive. It welcomes new brewers and encourages collaboration. This spirit of cooperation helps the scene grow and evolve. New breweries often receive support and advice from established ones, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

The popularity of Chicago beers is not limited to the city. Many local breweries distribute their products nationwide. This wider reach has introduced Chicago’s beer culture to a broader audience. It has also helped build a strong reputation for the city in the national beer scene.

In conclusion, Chicago's beer culture is a blend of history, creativity, and community. The city's breweries produce a diverse range of high-quality beers. Festivals, bars, and restaurants support local brews, making them an integral part of the city's identity. The inclusive and collaborative nature of the beer community ensures that Chicago remains a key player in the craft beer world.

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