Friday 4th of June 2010 04:22:48 PM

link
An interesting locale for a beer shop, 2 doors down from Excalibur, on the fringe of tourist trap central. Once buzzed in and up to the 2nd floor, there is a little foyer and a side room used for classes and tastings. The store area had wood shelving along the walls, and many singles on the left side. There were open windows, though I don't know how much sunlight gets in. Some locals like Alpha King, Goose IPA, Metropolitan. Selection was handpicked, no full lines from any one brewery. Majority of the beers were 12 oz., though they had an exclusive release for the new Juliet & Sofie 650mL bottles. There seemed to be plenty of room to expand, roughly 100 bottles give or take. A few interesting imports like Caracole Troublette, Hitachino Red Rice, Rochefort, Orval, and other Belgian staples. Many quality options, nothing too obscure. There was a tiny cooler with about 4 six packs and a couple wine bottles in it...if they want to commit to beer, there needs to be a bigger cooler (for preservation at the very least). Helpful, personable service, also beer knowledgeable. A good option for travelers staying downtown in the area hotels. Be aware that street parking is very difficult in this area, use CTA if you can.