Any can't miss homebrew stores west of Chicago?

[EuBrew]

I get to Chicago every other week for work so I figured I'd see if there were any places worth a special trip. I stay out in Hoffman Estates and my office is in the Schaumburg area.

THANKS!

 

[Clanchief]

The Brewer's Coop is the only place out west that I really know of. That's in Warrenville by the Two Brothers Brewery. From what I've heard it's kind of the red-headed stepchild though, and doesn't get too much love from the owners. There's a shop in Aurora I know, but I haven't been there. I think it's called Fox Valley something or other.

 

[mychalg9]

I went to Perfect brewing Supply in Libertyville for the first time last week. I was fairly impressed and they have a website that is pretty nice. Is not technically "west" but its not too far from schaumburg

 

[IffyG]

The Brewer's Coop is the only place out west that I really know of. That's in Warrenville by the Two Brothers Brewery. From what I've heard it's kind of the red-headed stepchild though, and doesn't get too much love from the owners.

It's run by the brewery itself and was relegated to one wall of random brewing supplies in their newly enlarged gift shop. I wouldn't waste your time unless you wanted to stop by their taproom (which has fantastic food in addition to great beer, I make it a point to stop by anytime I'm visiting my parents).

 

[DonnieZ]

Brew and grow has a pretty good setup and selection. The one I go to is in Bolingbrook, but they have a few locations throughout the city and suburbs. For the most part, they either have as good or better prices than the big 3 online shops. When you figure in shipping, sometimes it's even much better.

 

[KurtB]

If you were headed towards Two Brothers you could also make a stop in St. Charles at the Home Brew Shop (www.homebrewshopltd.com). Small place right down town. Couple of decent bars close by as well. The prices are a bit high, but the people are nice to talk with. They normally have something on tap to sample while you are talking.

I would not say it is a "can't miss" place, but it is my LHBS so I am in there quite a bit.

 

[sudsmcgee]

Brew and Grow in Roselle is a definite must-stop shop. Helpful and friendly guys in there and they have a decent selection for this area.