Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery (Craft Beer & Brewery in Chicago IL)

Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery in Chicago is the city’s first botanic‑themed brewery, and it proves that you can turn a garden into a brew‑pub without losing any of the swagger of a proper ale house. The moment you step inside, the décor whispers (the founders, veterans of the local food‑scene, decided to let herbs and hops do the talking) and the menu obliges, delivering craft beers that taste like a stroll through a greenhouse on a sunny afternoon.

Their rotating IPA series and seasonal brews are the stars, each poured into thoughtfully designed flights that come with cheeky tasting notes, so you can pretend you’re a sommelier while actually just enjoying the drink. The cocktail list isn’t an afterthought – the Old Fashioned is as robust as a well‑tuned engine, and the Beermosa adds a cheeky brunch‑time twist. Food doesn’t play second fiddle either; a perfectly portioned cheese board and an artisanal menu pair with the beer like a well‑matched duet, turning every bite and sip into a small celebration of craftsmanship.

In short, Forbidden Root mixes botanical curiosity with serious brewing know‑how, offering a multi‑sensory experience that feels both innovative and comfortably familiar.

Why we love this brewery

What visitors love

Reviewers praise Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery's delicious food, particularly the spicy chicken sandwich and cheese options, as well as their extensive beer selection with unique flavors like Beermosa. Ambiance is often described as cute and inviting.

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