Can anyone give me a heads up on where to shop and what to buy in Peoria? My sis is going to be there this weekend, and is trying to find some stuff she doesn't typically get in Iowa, and said she's happy to bring back some beers for me (I'm in MO). I'm particularly interested in the best of the shelfs (esp. Pipeworks and Half Acre) andwould also welcome any tips on where might be willing to sell her some behind the counter stuff or new releases like . Thanks!
Friar Tucks in Peoria. I wouldn't say I ever saw any pipeworks or half acre but they do have quite a lot of other good selections and the biggest I know for the area. Definitely a good stop. I live(when im not at school) an hour north of there and I never see any of those chicago brews anywhere around me and Im pretty sure they dont make it to Peoria.
Jimblobf is correct. You will not find the breweries listed in the Peoria area. They are Chicago and suburbs only. Not sure what else you are looking for but Friar will have the best selection.
I made a stop into Friar Tuck's a few weeks back, pretty similar situation only coming in from the north instead of the south. I ended up calling and spent some time in the store talking to a lady who worked there (sorry, forgot her name) explaining that I was looking for beers that I can't get in my neck of the woods. If you can find the same person she was pretty knowledgeable and steered me in the right direction. She was also a bit apologetic for not having anything really outstanding or unique but hey, it's Peoria. I always had the sense that the BMC's of the world are the beverage of choice around there. For what it's worth, it definitely seems like that Friar Tuck's is going to be your best option in the area. Also, I'll point you here if it'll give you any help. Good luck and hope you find something worthwhile!
seekabrew.com is a good place to start, but many things listed are Chicago only and are not in Peoria. It looks pretty limited what you find here and not in MO. A few things I see on the list that are in the area-Dark Horse, Dogfish Head, Port/Lost Abbey.
Have her try the Hy-Vee on Sheridan Rd and Super Liquors on War Memorial Dr and UFS on SW Adams if it's not too late.
