Chicago's Top Beer Keg Sources: A Guide To Local Brew Stores

Chicago is a beer lover's paradise, and if you're looking to stock up on beer kegs, you're in luck! There are several options for purchasing beer kegs in the city. Whether you're a homebrewer, a restaurant owner, or just looking to host a party, you can find the perfect keg for your needs. From specialty beer stores to big-box retailers, Chicago has a variety of places to buy beer kegs. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best places to buy beer kegs in Chicago, including local favorites and national chains.

Local Breweries: Many Chicago breweries offer kegs for purchase directly from their taprooms or online

If you're a beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene, and many local breweries offer kegs for purchase, providing an excellent way to enjoy your favorite brews at home or share them with friends and family. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process:

Direct from the Taproom:

One of the most convenient ways to buy beer kegs in Chicago is to visit the taprooms of local breweries. These taprooms often have a dedicated section for keg sales, where you can browse their current offerings. Many breweries provide detailed descriptions of their kegs, including the style, ingredients, and unique characteristics of each brew. You can also ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences. Some popular breweries known for their taproom sales include:

• Revolution Brewing: Located in Logan Square, Revolution offers a wide range of kegs, from their signature Revolution Lager to unique seasonal releases. They provide online ordering and delivery options, making it convenient for customers.
• Half Acre Beer Company: With multiple locations across Chicago, Half Acre has a taproom where you can purchase kegs and even participate in beer-tasting events. Their website also lists the available kegs and their respective prices.
• Lakeview Brewing Company: This brewery in the Lakeview neighborhood offers a variety of kegs, including their popular Lakeview Lager and seasonal IPAs. You can order online and choose a pickup or delivery option.

Online Purchases:

For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, many Chicago breweries now offer keg purchases through their websites. This method allows you to browse their entire keg selection from the comfort of your home. Here's how it typically works:

• Website Browsing: Visit the official websites of breweries like Goose Island, Half Acre, or Revolution. They usually have a dedicated 'Kegs' or 'Canned & Kegged' section on their menu page.
• Ordering Process: Select the keg(s) you want, add them to your cart, and proceed to checkout. You might need to create an account and provide shipping or pickup details.
• Delivery or Pickup: Choose your preferred method of receiving the kegs. Some breweries offer local delivery, while others may require in-store pickup.

Benefits of Buying from Local Breweries:

• Freshness: Kegged beer from local breweries is often fresher compared to store-bought options, as it's produced and packaged on-site.
• Support for Local Business: By purchasing directly from these breweries, you contribute to the growth and success of Chicago's craft beer community.
• Unique Offerings: Local breweries often experiment with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, resulting in one-of-a-kind beer styles that you won't find elsewhere.

Remember, buying beer kegs directly from local breweries not only ensures a high-quality product but also supports the city's vibrant craft beer culture. Happy kegging!

Grocery Stores: Large chains like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's sell beer kegs, often with delivery options

If you're looking to stock up on beer for a party or just want to enjoy a cold one at home, buying a beer keg can be a convenient and cost-effective option. In Chicago, several grocery stores offer beer kegs, providing an easy way to access a variety of beer brands. Here's a guide to help you find the right place:

Large grocery chains like Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe's are excellent resources for beer enthusiasts. These stores often have a wide selection of beer kegs, including popular domestic and international brands. For example, Whole Foods might offer a range of options like Bud Light, Coors Light, and even craft beers in kegs. Trader Joe's, known for its unique and affordable products, may have a different set of kegs available each week, providing a fun element of surprise. Both stores typically have online ordering systems, allowing you to browse their selection and schedule a delivery time that suits your needs. This is especially convenient if you're looking to avoid multiple trips to the store or want to ensure you have enough beer for a larger gathering.

When visiting these stores, you can expect to find various sizes of kegs, from half-kegs to full-sized ones, catering to different preferences and occasions. The staff can also provide guidance on the best beer options to suit your taste, ensuring you make an informed purchase.

Additionally, these grocery stores often have competitive pricing, making them an attractive choice for those seeking value. With the convenience of online ordering and delivery, you can have your beer keg delivered right to your doorstep, saving you time and effort.

Remember to check the store's website or give them a call to confirm the availability of beer kegs and any specific delivery requirements they may have. This ensures a smooth and efficient process, allowing you to enjoy your favorite brews without any hassle.

Beer Shops: Specialty shops like The Beer Store and Chicago Beer Company offer a wide selection of kegs

If you're a beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene, and accessing a wide variety of beer kegs is easier than ever. Specialty shops like The Beer Store and Chicago Beer Company are your go-to destinations for an extensive selection of kegs, catering to both casual and connoisseur beer lovers.

The Beer Store, located in the heart of Chicago, is a haven for beer enthusiasts. With a vast array of beer kegs, they offer a unique shopping experience. From local craft brews to international favorites, their collection is diverse. You can find everything from popular lagers to unique, small-batch experimental beers. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to offer recommendations, ensuring you find the perfect keg for your taste. They also provide a range of accessories, such as taps and CO2 cylinders, making it a one-stop shop for all your beer-related needs.

Chicago Beer Company, another specialty shop, takes pride in its extensive keg selection. This store is known for its focus on local and regional beers, showcasing the best of Chicago's craft beer scene. Here, you can discover unique, small-batch kegs from local breweries, many of which are exclusive to this store. They also offer a wide range of international kegs, allowing you to explore different beer styles and flavors. The staff's passion for beer is evident, as they provide detailed information about each keg, helping you make an informed choice.

Both of these shops offer a personalized shopping experience, ensuring you find the perfect keg for your preferences. They cater to various beer styles, from crisp lagers to rich stouts and fruity IPAs. Additionally, they provide excellent customer service, offering advice on storage, serving, and pairing to enhance your beer-drinking experience.

In Chicago, specialty beer shops are the ideal places to buy beer kegs, offering a vast selection and expert guidance. Whether you're a homebrewer or simply enjoy the occasional craft beer, these shops will cater to your needs, providing access to a diverse range of beer kegs and ensuring you can always find something new and exciting to try.

Online Retailers: Websites like Drizly and The Beer Store provide convenient online ordering and delivery for beer kegs

If you're looking to stock up on beer kegs in Chicago, you're in luck! The city offers a variety of options for beer enthusiasts, including several online retailers that provide a convenient and efficient way to purchase kegs. One such platform is Drizly, which has become a go-to service for many Chicagoans. Drizly allows you to browse and order beer kegs from various local stores and breweries, making it easy to find the perfect brew for your next gathering. With just a few clicks, you can have your kegs delivered right to your doorstep, saving you the hassle of making multiple trips to the store.

Another popular choice is The Beer Store, an online retailer that specializes in craft and specialty beers, including kegs. Their website offers a comprehensive selection of kegs from different brands and styles, ensuring you can find something to suit every taste. The Beer Store also provides a seamless ordering process, allowing you to schedule deliveries at your convenience. This is especially useful if you're planning a large event and need multiple kegs delivered promptly.

Both Drizly and The Beer Store offer a user-friendly interface, making it simple to search for specific kegs, view product details, and place orders. You can filter your search by brand, style, alcohol content, and more, ensuring you find the right keg for your needs. Additionally, these online retailers often provide customer reviews, giving you insights from other beer enthusiasts in Chicago who have purchased similar products.

When using these online platforms, you can expect efficient delivery services. Drizly, for instance, partners with local stores and breweries to ensure quick and reliable deliveries. The Beer Store also offers timely delivery options, allowing you to choose a preferred time slot for your keg delivery. This level of convenience is particularly appealing to those with busy schedules or those who prefer the comfort of online shopping.

In Chicago, where the craft beer scene is thriving, having access to these online retailers can be a game-changer. Whether you're a homebrewer, a pub owner, or simply a beer enthusiast, these platforms provide a convenient way to purchase beer kegs without leaving your home. With their wide selection, user-friendly interfaces, and efficient delivery services, Drizly and The Beer Store are excellent choices for anyone looking to buy beer kegs in Chicago.

Liquor Stores: Many liquor stores in Chicago, such as Binny's Beverage Depot, sell beer kegs, often with a variety of brands

If you're looking to buy beer kegs in Chicago, you're in luck! The city is home to numerous liquor stores that offer a wide range of options for beer enthusiasts. One popular choice is Binnys Beverage Depot, a well-known liquor store chain in the area. They provide a comprehensive selection of beer kegs, ensuring that customers can find their preferred brands and styles.

When visiting Binnys Beverage Depot or similar stores, you can expect to find a diverse array of beer kegs. These stores often carry various local and international brands, catering to different tastes and preferences. From classic lagers to craft beers, the options are extensive, allowing you to explore and discover new favorites. The knowledgeable staff can also provide recommendations based on your preferences, making the process of choosing the right beer even more enjoyable.

In addition to Binnys, Chicago boasts many other liquor stores that specialize in beer kegs. These stores often have dedicated sections or aisles for kegs, making it easy for customers to browse and select their desired products. Some stores may even offer home delivery or a click-and-collect service, providing convenience for those who prefer to shop from the comfort of their own homes.

Another advantage of shopping at these liquor stores is the opportunity to learn about different beer styles and brewing techniques. Many stores provide educational resources or staff members who can guide you through the various options, ensuring you make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or a beginner, these stores cater to all levels of expertise.

Remember, when purchasing beer kegs, it's essential to consider factors such as storage requirements, serving size, and personal preferences. With the wide range of options available in Chicago's liquor stores, you're sure to find the perfect beer kegs to suit your needs and elevate your drinking experience.

Frequently asked questions