Twisted Hippo

When a buddy was looking to find a particular style for an Untappd badge (I know, I know) and found one at Twisted Hippo, I figured I'd hop the train after work and pop in for a visit. It's a relatively quiet little area of Montrose, and the place feels like it fits in, even if the more modern (read: fake wood paneling and corrugated aluminum on the walls, neo-tacqueria sort of feel) elements ostensibly clash with the more plain outdoors. The space is mostly a large seating area and bar, with an event space and arcade area on a loft above. After a few minutes of perusing the menu, I began to order from the solid and decently-varied selection, each time ordering a miniature pour (gotta pace yourself, y'know). The bartenders were amiable and seemed knowledgeable, though I didn't press. I didn't try any of the food, but some of the menu items sounded pretty tasty. Maybe next time. Also, some nice bathrooms. Just sayin'. Overall, though it's something of a trek from the office, I wouldn't mind stopping in here occasionally to check in and try some new stuff. Hell, if the music remains solid, I'm definitely gonna be atp to revisit.

 

Sept. 2022:
This has been a hell of a year for Twisted Hippo. Their brewery burned down in late February, but by mid-August they found a new temporary home at District Brew Yards (Chicago & Wheeling). While they search for a new space, this allows them to still have a pseudo-taproom until they can open their own place again.

Several new beers have debuted at their new space, including an excellent mixed-ferm Grisette (Biere du Bacle) and a Schwarzbier with Hexe coffee (Pinky & Beefy). With the addition of Lillie's Q and outdoor patio, their new spot is a destination, and also brings renewed interest to District Brew Yards.

2019:
Lots of zany colors, neon pink and green, with more energy than the space had before. Upstairs loft with an art gallery and mini-arcade. Soaring high ceilings and exposed wooden trestle beams.

Friendly welcoming staff, multiple greetings, yet it took 10-15 min. to get a beer at the bar. Service was fine after that. Table service has been hit or miss in subsequent visits, to the point where I ended up getting my own drinks at the bar.

Beers were ok, the grapefruit & gin botanical beer was the best i've tried. Some lacked the advertised flavors, coconut, candy bar, etc. The "beer flavored beer" was pretty good however.

Food that I saw looked and smelled great, the menu was varied and interesting. Comfort foods and some different twists on the usual stuff. Edit: tried a few apps on the second visit. Curds, Asian BBQ wings, and "Wisconsin nachos" special were all tasty.

Overall a nice addition to the Irving Park neighborhood, with Montrose Saloon next door for much needed decompression and bocce in the backyard. Templestowe is great for a relaxing second pit stop also, plus Aztlan Mexican Grill & Taco Max are both nearby for a taco fix, late night or anytime.