History in short: The family-owned Mikerphone is a brewery inspired by music that was founded by Mike Pallen in his basement. After earning his stripes at Pipeworks and 18th Street, Pallen released Mikerphone’s first commercial beer in 2015 and, later that same year, it was awarded “Best New Brewery” in Illinois by Ratebeer as well as “One of the Best New Breweries in the World” by Beer Advocate.

With music and flavor as their inspiration, Mikerphone is known for high-quality, small-batch beer including everything from classic styles to those that “push the boundaries of what beer can become.”

The space: Sure, Mikerphone may be a little tough to find the first time, hidden back in a winding industrial park (like so many great breweries are). But once you take a seat in the colorful taproom — equipped with two bars, patio seating and bright blue walls adorned with vinyl records — we’re sure you’ll consider it a worthy destination. Family-friendly and dog-friendly too, so feel free to bring the crew.

Interesting note: Food trucks are regularly on the premises Friday-Sunday offering everything from barbecue, pizza and the Biker Dude’s burgers to pierogis and even lobster rolls and fresh-shucked oysters. Want to bring your own grub to snack on or order in from a nearby restaurant? Feel free. Live music is usually the norm on Sundays too.

Mikerphone is excited about a new project that has them working with area distilleries to co-brand, manufacture and sell liquor, which will only add to their already strong barrel-aged program.

What’s coming up: Mikerphone’s Oktoberfest celebration is Sept 30-Oct. 2, including food vendors, live music, stein-holding contests and plenty of their popular Kick, Push, Prost Marzen. No tickets needed and family-friendly. Mikerphone is also excited about a new project that has them working with area distilleries to co-brand, manufacture and sell liquor, which will only add to their already strong barrel-aged program. 

What we’re drinking: We’re big fans of their reputation for hazy and double dry-hopped double IPAs like Mikerphone Check 1,2 and the new Poetic Hustler. The imperial breakfast stout that put them on the map several years ago was Smells Like Bean Spirit. They recently brewed a barrel-aged version with maple syrup and coffee that’s aged some 18 months. Mikerphone is also no stranger to fun collaborations with fellow breweries, so keep an eye out for future projects.

From the brewery: “We just celebrated seven years in business and are proud that we’ve developed a diverse lineup of beers we didn’t really have early on. Our focus the last few years has been on becoming more inclusive and looking to help people understand the craft-beer market.” — Founder Mike Pallen