Maplewood Brewery & Lounge

[resisting . . . urge . . . to make . . . hackneyed joke . . .]

 

It was one of the least fun places I’ve had drinks with friends.

There’s nowhere to really stand, it’s kinda dark, and you can’t really talk.

Hopefully they figure out a patio or something, but that’s doubtful too.

 

The popularity of craft beer is ruining taprooms(for me). It's like every place in Chicago is becoming 3Floyds with waits to get in. I hate it...especially during Cubs games now that significant parts of the Old Style crowd has converted to craft over the past decade.... Someone should open up a brewpub on the same block as Half Acre Lincoln. They'd kill it just based on the overflow of people waiting who can't get into HA.

 

Maybe they can name the brewery Begyle or Dovetail?

 

Half a mile does not equal next door. And are you alluding to the success of those two breweries being the run-off from HA?

 

just being a smartass.

though a half-mile in the city isn't a big deal. most people just walk that. 10-15 minutes you're there.

 

So did anyone try Big Pulpy?

 

Reviews are looking good:

https://untappd.com/b/maplewood-brewing-company-big-pulpy/2789490

 

NEIPAS served in stemmed glasses? Roger has hit the big time.

 

I don’t mind crowded. They layout was just awful, and a complete custerfuck. I was not a fan of the lounge idea. Having couches and a set-up like Central Perk really limits the seating.

 

I haven't been there yet, but that sounds dumb as hell.

 

i don't recall couches, but this will give you an idea of how frustrating a visit can be even when it's just at half capacity.

https://goo.gl/maps/MqyiNtkGr222

https://goo.gl/maps/pJ7vx2fR1dH2

 

That place (M'wood) was tight on day ONE, and I was there on opening day of the lounge. But given its lack of access to the El, I don't think it'll be as slammed all the time. Nice that owen & engine is around the corner, too, and the movie theater if you REALLY need to sober up.
Glad that that Maplewood added Roger, too, as he'll tighten up the hazy-ship a bit (one which was already pretty solid). Cheers! Good luck to em, hopefully I can get there again during my upcoming visit next week.

 

Big Pulpy was good with the flavors on point even if the mouthfeel was just barely shy of Corridor levels. But a damn good beer. Unfortunately, there was a line 15 deep outside at 2:30. You would’ve had to wait in that line for to go beer as well. They’re ill equipped to handle the crowds that Roger’s beers are going to bring, especially once the crowler machine is working

 

Well crap - then I'm already wrong. Sad the line was so deep just for a new release... but hey, at least it means it's good (right?).

 

Very hard to tell how much was new release related at 4pm on a Saturday. There were several large groups and couples there. Plenty of different styles being ordered so I think it was just busy

 

Met up with some friends on Sunday, and when discussing our weekend, one group said they went to Maplewood Friday.

When asked how she liked it, her response - “fuck that place. We had to wait to get in even though out friends were already inside with 3 open spots at a table, and then we had to wait around to be served. I’m never going back”.


Obviously being busy is great for them, but they’re definitely not doing much to bring in the casual, repeat customer just looking to grab a drink with their current set-up.

 

Maybe if people weren't tying up tables waiting for their party to show up it would be more efficient.