Demo Brewing Company

Keep 'em coming, keep on filling up this whole row of blocks with breweries and the like. Damn serious, straight-up, it would be an improvement. Though I mourn the loss of the Indian restaurant that was until recently located just beneath the Irving Park Brown Line stop (it always smelled so damned good when I passed by on my way to imbibe), I will celebrate the complementary circle of life exhibited in the rising of Demo Brewing. Located just east of the Metra tracks along Ravenswood, this place is essentially a large garage that happens to have taps, brite tanks, miscellaneous brewing equipment, and an assortment of tables. But, yeah, there's seemingly very little in the way of building, especially with the garage door open to let in the, er, breeze, I guess? I dunno, not much wind when I was visiting, so this large dude who runs rather hot to begin with was sweating pretty strongly whilst seated amongst the dozens of other patrons, who, despite adding to the heat issue, were a welcome sight for someone who likes to see these local breweries succeed. I didn't notice anything in the way of screens, so the emphasis was on conversation, shudder in horror. The vibe is decidedly laid-back, a neighborhood spot being enjoyed by actual neighbors and the odd tourist from the 'Burbs in a Band-Maid shirt. The range isn't all that wide, with a couple IPAs on offer alongside a berliner, a pale, a couple seltzers, a fruity, and a couple pale lagers. Very summery feel, now that I think about, so fair enow. The 'tenders were all rather amiable and helpful, though I did not quiz them or anything, so, y'know, it's all good. The suds themselves were all pretty solid, if nothing all that altogether outstanding. Overall, another welcome spot in the area, a bit more informal and relaxed than the others. Let's go.

 

 

 

Very small, very new place in Chicago. They had 5 beers & a seltzer on when I went. Quality beers, VERY nice servers, and an overall cool vibe. Recommended.

Small space from the outside, which opens up once you enter. Side doors facing the alley open up on nice days. Comfortable bar with really nice upholstered seats, room for 20 or so. A couch up front, tables in back with the open brewery cordoned off in back. A dozen ferns hang from the ceiling, level with a row of old factory windows that allow dimly filtered sunlight in.

Eight house beers on draft, one guest from Dovetail, four wines, and a couple NA Athletic options. Styles ranged from a trio of IPA’s, to NZ Pilsner, to an 8% oatmeal stout. Beers are constantly rotating, which is a core concept of the brewery. Highlights were the oatmeal stout and Tea Goblin IPA.

Quality was average, most beers were good, though a couple had a noticeable sharp alcohol note.

Service was great, we recognized Chris the bartender from Dovetail and Long Room and chatted for a good while. He shared that the space was originally Spiteful’s first production brewery.

Overall, it’s a welcome addition to the “Malt Row” brewery district, a short distance from Dovetail, Begyle, and Hop Butcher.