The Half-Acre thread (2018)

I had to miss it last year because of a wedding, and my friends and I kept making jokes all weekend (it was out of town), about how bummed we were. We've been to every previous HA party, and it's the one beer event my buddy can get his wife excited about and not roll her eyes.

So, I know the pain.

Still we'll be returning this year, and are very much looking forward to it. The previous HA partys we attended all had guest taps, so I'll be curious to see what it's like drinking only HA beers.

 

i think you'll survive haha

 

Benthic AND Big Hugs variants?? I'll be pounding the door down at 4pm.

 

Anything you want to try will be on tap for a while so don't worry about anything running out quickly. The demo at this event isn't the typical craft beer fest which is probably why I enjoy it so much. I guess that could change this year.

 

They also stagger the beers throughout the day, so they may put on one variant at 4, the next at 5, the next at 6, etc.

 

You mean I have to stay sober enough to realize when another variant is going to be put on?? Lame!

 

Man...how do I wait two whole days for this? Pretty excited...even if my 40-something liver is terrified and drinking as much water as it can right now. See y'all there...

 

You and me both. I've committed to drinking beer only once per month now and this is my event for August. I haven't had a beer in over a month at this point.

 

Good luck to you at big north. It'll be like running a marathon after only working on short sprints

 

Haha well I still drink like once a week but I try and stay away from beer for health reasons.

 

Figure to grab some food beforehand, but I'll have to make sure to just drink water and not order a drink.

 

same here

I'm not in the city a lot, any good food around the area?

 

Bad Apple in North Center - burgers
Budlong in Lincoln Square - Nashville hot fried chicken
Hopleaf in Andersonville - Belgian-inspired food and excellent beer list

Each of these are a short ride from the Balmoral location.

 

I'd recommend staying away from some of the places with great beer lists. Don't wanna be tempted and get a head start.

At least that's my train of thought.

 

Yeah, I am in the same boat. We are going to eat prior and I have to force myself not to get a drink.

 

My suggestion would be Taqueria El Asadero (cash only!) - filling, reasonable, within walking distance too if you need to digest prior to...you know...bus and brown el nearby. More importantly, there's no beer on site to tempt you. Love their burritos (giant) and their tortas (still plenty)...
2213 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

 

I need to not eat anything that will make my stomach explode right after eating it. I think I will go to Northman for a burg and then uber up.

 

I second this. This place rules and is my go to pre-Half Acre on Lincoln spot. The Al Pastor tacos are a dream.

 

Walking from the new brewery, here are a few ideas:

Yes Thai
Da Rae Jung
Jimmys Pizza
El Tipico
Paulines
Fireside
Bang Bang

 

I can't be at The Big North but it was seriously one of the best beer fests I've ever been to. Arrive with a full stomach and prepare for an endless supply of some of the best beers you've ever drank. Have fun ya'll!