25 O'Clock Brewing Company

 

This was an incredible stop I took 7 months ago. The owners personally talked beer with me the whole time I was there. They were still getting this place going, but the small batches were wonderful! Worth the stop when visiting University of Illinois!

A new brewery for the Chambana area. Walking in, at first is kind of a bland atmosphere. With an open concrete floor setting, a few picnic tables. A wood bar meanders that seats about 12 people comfortable. As I sat at the bar, it became much more interesting however. As the bartender/owners that work here are great and engaging. Let alone the nice patio outside by the boneyard creek. They also have a selection of vinyl, anything from Chick Corea's Return to Forever to Willie Nelson. You are encouraged to browse and play what you want.

They had about 8 beers on tap on my visit. They seem to focus on Belgian styles with a few English styles thrown in as well. The porter is simple and spot on, I really enjoyed the Quad, with a pretty good Tripel to boot. They were out of their bitter, and they have all kinds of Saisons planned. They use distinct yeasts, which I can tell right away makes a difference. Like Westmalle is used specifically for the Tripel, and they are trying to cultivate unique yeasts for their Saisons. All taps are $6, but they don't accept tips so that makes up for the slightly higher prices. I really enjoyed chatting with one of the owners, as he was very knowledgeable. I also got a bottle of the Quad to go (which was in a 750 ml bottle).

I'll be looking forward to making more visits when I come through town. Along with Riggs, making some pretty good authentic styles and I can easily see this spot getting better on more visits.