Church Street Brewing Company (Craft Beer & Brewery in Itasca IL)

Church Street Brewing Company in Itasca, Illinois, is where the romance of old‑school brewing meets the swagger of modern craft. Their brewers (who clearly love a good science experiment) still use a decoction mash—an ancient German technique that forces the grains to dance in hot water, coaxing out flavours that would make a textbook blush. The result is a rotating roster of 30 + tap‑lights, from razor‑sharp lagers that could slice through a steak to stouts so bold they could argue with a mountain. Barrel‑aged versions lurk in the back, aging patiently like a fine wine in a quiet cellar.

The kitchen isn’t trying to be avant‑garde, it’s just better than a typical pub menu: think sriracha‑maple‑glazed bacon that smells like a campfire on a hot summer night, giant pretzels soft enough to hug your palm, and a Bánh Mì that could convince a vegan to reconsider their life choices. The space is equally adaptable—indoor and outdoor areas that welcome a spontaneous lunch, a live‑music session, or a bustling craft‑fair. Everything is served at the proper temperature, fresh, and with a grin, proving that heritage‑driven brewing can still feel like a celebration rather than a lecture.

Why we love this brewery

What visitors love

Customers rave about Church Street's high-quality beers, especially their lagers, and appreciate the friendly, helpful staff. The brewery also impresses with its events, food options, and cleanliness, making it a neighborhood favorite spot for great beer experiences.

Looking for more breweries in Itasca area?