Belgian Brews

by Marla Seidell - Citysearch Contributor - 57 Reviews - 15 Lists

Updated: August 10, 2009

Like a good date, Belgian beers are long on attributes. Although styles differ, each is characteristically strong, complex, and rich in flavor. High amounts of alcohol are commonplace, which make for a mini-party with each bottle. Kick back at these fine taverns and savor the flamboyant taste of a Belgian brew.

Our Picks

  1. 1 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Delilah's
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    2771 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

    Beer is just as much a tradition here as punk rock, and Belgian varieties abound. Eighty-one varieties are on hand, with Delirium Tremens, Lindeman?s, and Cantillion Kriek (sour and tart that buzzes on your tongue) as stars of the show. Grab your brew and head to the back of the bar, where low lighting makes for interesting conversation.

  2. 2 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Village Tap
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    2055 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618 (map)

    Come for the splendid beer garden, stay for one of five stellar Belgian beers on tap. American Belgian style Hennepin (a farmhouse ale perfect for summer) and Goose Island Matilda (thick and creamy) are here, as are Tripel Karmeliet and St. Bernardus (dark, monk-brewed, and stronger than Guinness). Pair these beauties with an array of finger food; such as the beer-battered mozzarella sticks or buffalo breaded chicken strips.

  3. 3 3.5 Star Rating: Average Globe Pub
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    1934 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613 (map)

    European soccer is a religion here, and foreign beers are just as ubiquitous as the soccer matches on telly. Delirium Nocturum (lighter than its sister) and Oude Gueze Boon (a bit of musty funk and cider rolled into one) are classic standbys that make a fine pairing with the quesadillas and guacamole, or spinach artichoke dip with a trio of cheeses.

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Uncommon Ground
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    1401 W Devon, Chicago, IL 60660 (map)

    Yes, they?ve got lovely local and organic eats at this cushy restaurant meets eclectic music venue, as well as the Belgian beers to back it up. Grab a seat with friends in the stylish bar, order up the naughty but nice Delirium Tremens or the heady yet smooth Tripel Karmeliet. For a supreme nosh, try the Korean chili-spiced calamari, or the duck confit quesadillas oozing with Chihuahua cheese.

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Hopleaf Bar
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    5148 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640 (map)

    The mother of all things Belgian, this Andersonville pub has sixteen Belgian beers on draft and more than 150 bottles, making a choice daunting. Try Rochefort 10, dark and complex Trappist Ale containing rich notes of chocolate and fruit. Don?t forget the mouth-watering mussels or the fries, served with the authentically Belgian frites sauce.

  6. 6 4 Star Rating: Recommended Quenchers Saloon
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    2401 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (map)

    Rock-n-roll is here to stay. Along with free popcorn, a retro photo booth, and a killer jukebox, 28 Belgian choices are on hand for your drinking pleasure. For the cream of the crop, choose the strapping Chimnay White, or the smooth and creamy Leffe Brown. The tater tot pizza and Earl?s famous chili make excellent beer chaperons.