FIB War Room

[Dunt1]

This sounds like the perfect moneymaker in the far suburbs.

 

[lb304854]

Get dat yuppy Rock Bottom money mang.


I drove past awful Rock Bottom and Granite City Orland Park on Saturday night. The entire giant parking lots surrounding both were full.

 

[mdomask]

"The team is currently brewing small batch samples of original recipes, including an IPA, double IPA, porter, Imperial ale, Belgian ale and lager."

What is this, 2011?

This sounds like the perfect moneymaker in the far suburbs.

Half Day Brewing in Lincolnshire is inexplicably packed on weeknights with this style lineup and bland af food.

 

[mdomask]

how does haymarket survive in what has to be some of the highest rent in the city with that menu? i guess by virtue of folks getting drinks while waiting for their table somewhere else on that street.

This is 100% the case.

 

[Lansman]

"The team is currently brewing small batch samples of original recipes, including an IPA, double IPA, porter, Imperial ale, Belgian ale and lager."

What is this, 2011?

This sounds like the perfect moneymaker in the far suburbs.

This operation will be successful because it sounds like they have the perfect mix of completely one note and pedestrian beers that we find awful and boring but the average consumer sees as inoffensive and easy drinking.

 

[yeahnatenelson]

"The team is currently brewing small batch samples of original recipes, including an IPA, double IPA, porter, Imperial ale, Belgian ale and lager."

What is this, 2011?

This sounds like the perfect moneymaker in the far suburbs.

OR: maybe all of those deep beer-knowers and industry prognosticators who keep saying that Helles Lager and, "just really well made beer-flavored beer" are the next big things are right and these mofos are cutting the hazebois and pastry-mongers off at the pass.

 

[lb304854]

OR: maybe all of those deep beer-knowers and industry prognosticators who keep saying that Helles Lager and, "just really well made beer-flavored beer" are the next big things are right and these mofos are cutting the hazebois and pastry-mongers off at the pass.

I remember when people predicted this on Beer Advocate....I haven't been on BA since 2013.


I would bet real money that my trusted lager expert Gonzoillini will not like theirs, whenever they do open.

 

[PHBoiler]

Just found out another beer bar stalwart is closing its doors soon. Damn shame. News will probably break tomorrow. Not all employees know yet so I’m not going full Kiser and posting the name of the bar.

Seems like the taproom/brewpub squeeze is definitely hitting bars now.

 

[kodt]

Just found out another beer bar stalwart is closing its doors soon. Damn shame. News will probably break tomorrow. Not all employees know yet so I’m not going full Kiser and posting the name of the bar.

Seems like the taproom/brewpub squeeze is definitely hitting bars now.

Don't you mean taking on the heavy burden of being the only outlet who can do the story justice and control the mesaage so you have to do it before other unscrupulous "journalists" do?

 

[Alum]

how does haymarket survive in what has to be some of the highest rent in the city with that menu? i guess by virtue of folks getting drinks while waiting for their table somewhere else on that street.

I think you nailed this. And while I've stopped making Haymarket an option after my weekly late shift, it always seemed like Haymarket grabbed a HUGE after work crowd and portion of that segment that didn't necessarily care about craft beer because they had such a deep bar. I'm sure that pays the bills and they are much more appealing than the Bar Louie option that was there previously I'd assume (But still attractive to the crowd that went there for happy hour simultaneously). Also, they show sports.. a lot of places around there don't really.

I think another question is how well are their cans selling? I haven't bought any yet (And I'd say I probably wasn't going to anyways) but can you name one of their offerings that you can't immediately think of a better local option in the market? Maybe the Belgian IPA? I don't mind visiting their Bridgman operation if I have time and I'm hungry (Though if I'm not, I'd rather make Watermark a 2nd stop after Transient), but the cans just aren't a viable option for my money.

Edit: It's almost like getting to market so late hurt them (Ignoring what any one of us thinks about their core beer offerings - Good or bad). If they had come out earlier, maybe they would have become a staple. But with that late entry (Breweries with far smaller operations beat them to market with the mobile canning option), it's just another overlooked option stacked on the Binnys floor for me.

 

[middlebrow]

I think you nailed this. And while I've stopped making Haymarket an option after my weekly late shift, it always seemed like Haymarket grabbed a HUGE after work crowd and portion of that segment that didn't necessarily care about craft beer because they had such a deep bar. I'm sure that pays the bills and they are much more appealing than the Bar Louie option that was there previously I'd assume (But still attractive to the crowd that went there for happy hour simultaneously). Also, they show sports.. a lot of places around there don't really.

I think another question is how well are their cans selling? I haven't bought any yet (And I'd say I probably wasn't going to anyways) but can you name one of their offerings that you can't immediately think of a better local option in the market? Maybe the Belgian IPA? I don't mind visiting their Bridgman operation if I have time and I'm hungry (Though if I'm not, I'd rather make Watermark a 2nd stop after Transient), but the cans just aren't a viable option for my money.

Edit: It's almost like getting to market so late hurt them (Ignoring what any one of us thinks about their core beer offerings - Good or bad). If they had come out earlier, maybe they would have become a staple. But with that late entry (Breweries with far smaller operations beat them to market with the mobile canning option), it's just another overlooked option stacked on the Binnys floor for me.

Haymarket seems like the city’s version of flossmoor with a more stable head brewing staff.

 

[lb304854]

Haymarket seems like the city’s version of flossmoor with a more stable head brewing staff.

 

[capnmike]

More on the MoRE BA Henna release...

When can I line up?

We ask that no one lines up before 7am – per Villa Park Ordinance – police will be patrolling

Why the F*#@ would you do a line!

Many factors. We wanted to avoid Eventbrite fees and instead do something good with some of the money saved, we hope that’s something everyone can get on board with. We want to celebrate Illinois Craft Beer Week by joining hundreds of like-minded craft beer drinkers together. This also helps give locals a higher chance of obtaining some bottles vs relying on the internets.

Why do I need to register on Eventbrite if this is first come first serve?

This free and simple step is in place to help with line cutters and loopers. We know it’s odd, but we’re sure it’ll help. Thanks!

jlawokay.gif

 

[Alum]

Wait what.. you have to register for the event on Eventbrite just to stand in line?

 

[DiscountMegaMall4ever]

More on the MoRE BA Henna release...

When can I line up?

We ask that no one lines up before 7am – per Villa Park Ordinance – police will be patrolling

Why the F*#@ would you do a line!

Many factors. We wanted to avoid Eventbrite fees and instead do something good with some of the money saved, we hope that’s something everyone can get on board with. We want to celebrate Illinois Craft Beer Week by joining hundreds of like-minded craft beer drinkers together. This also helps give locals a higher chance of obtaining some bottles vs relying on the internets.

Why do I need to register on Eventbrite if this is first come first serve?

This free and simple step is in place to help with line cutters and loopers. We know it’s odd, but we’re sure it’ll help. Thanks!

jlawokay.gif

"What are allotments going to be?
Allotments will be determined based on turnout each day"

 

[kodt]

Wait what.. you have to register for the event on Eventbrite just to stand in line?

Haha yup. I do see how it can prevent line loopers, once you got your bottles your name gets crossed off the list and you can't get more without another registration / matching ID. Also gives them an idea of expected turnout.. aka 1pp is a given but won't be announced until the massive line has already formed.

However, that won't stop line cutters, you can have all of your mules register and cut at the last minute.

 

[jvanaus]

9. 'Setting' bottle limits at time of release so 'everyone gets a bottle' and then proceeding to sell bottles for the next 4-52 weeks on site at a 100-400% markup is the Side Project model which should be followed everywhere to max profit$.

I'm sure I will be corrected if (when?) I'm wrong, but doesn't HF do this same thing with no complaints? raginasian238 - little help?

As an aside, I really have no problem with how SP does their releases. Most things get an initial drop so people can have bottles at home, and there's the on-site option on the day of the release. Then as things sell out days or weeks later, it's dropped from the to-go section and is on-site only until what they have available for public consumption is gone.

As a method of attempting to minimize the secondary sales, they're forcing people to pay a higher on-site rather than buy them from some ******* who bought it to flip. It's not a perfect system, but this is the new normal when breweries see the prices their beers command on the secondary market. I'm sure it keeps a lot of owners up at night, wondering why they can't sell them for a similar price. Sure, it ***** the person who's buying to drink themselves, and 90% of their beers have me priced out, but I understand why they do it.

 

[user 312341]

Doesn't HF do this same thing with no complaints? raginasian238 - little help?

Yes, most of what is for sale is also available onsite in the taproom. You are correct on both thoughts: There is a markup on bottles, but it's not really a big deal for most people (at least anyone I know). You are required to split most of the bottles anyway, so (at least in my warped mind) it evens out when you end up buying something and someone else gets the next.

And let's be real. Most folks who are going to Hill aren't thinking about sticking to a strict budget. I've tried. It doesn't work. Haha.

*runs back to the NYC thread now*

 

[yeahnatenelson]

To second raginasian238, the mark-up on the on-premise bottles are very modest, much cheaper than you see at a bar. I went there about a year ago and the most expensive thing I bought to consume there was a 750mL Flora for, like, $40.

 

[benh123]

I wonder if there will be a spectator section at more, I think I'd very much like to watch the dumpster fire in person. The real question though, Can I bottle share?

 

[Gonzoillini1]

In non-More related news...




The Beer Bistro
57 mins ·
For almost 13 years The Beer Bistro has been lucky enough to be your West Loop neighborhood bar, your home away from home, your place to celebrate victories & championships as well as drown your sorrows when things have gone the other way. We’ve watched your families grow, your children walk, your life blossom- and we’ve shared our lives with you. It has been both a privilege and a joy to have had the opportunity to pour you a drink, serve you food, & toast to your good fortune. As all good runs, though, this one has come to its end. It is with some sorrow we must now part ways. Regrettably, we will be closing our doors for good as of May 12, 2018.

We thank you for your friendship and patronage, and hope our paths cross over a cold beer sometime in the not too distant future.
Know that without our amazing staff and loyal regular guests we never would’ve made it this far. For that we say THANK YOU.

Warmly, Bob and Heidi and the Bistro Staff.

A buddy who is long time friends with Bob had warned me this was coming a few months back, but asked to keep it private as the staff didn't know at the time. Apparently they are out of renewal options and the landlord is looking for an absurd rent escalation. Last I heard Bob was going to try and re-open somewhere else, but one of my favorite spots in that area for a pre United Center beer is soon to be no more.

Beer Bistro / Northdown both gone too soon...

 

[kodt]

Damn, that used to be one of my local mainstays.

 

[TheJB]

In non-More related news...




The Beer Bistro
57 mins ·
For almost 13 years The Beer Bistro has been lucky enough to be your West Loop neighborhood bar, your home away from home, your place to celebrate victories & championships as well as drown your sorrows when things have gone the other way. We’ve watched your families grow, your children walk, your life blossom- and we’ve shared our lives with you. It has been both a privilege and a joy to have had the opportunity to pour you a drink, serve you food, & toast to your good fortune. As all good runs, though, this one has come to its end. It is with some sorrow we must now part ways. Regrettably, we will be closing our doors for good as of May 12, 2018.

We thank you for your friendship and patronage, and hope our paths cross over a cold beer sometime in the not too distant future.
Know that without our amazing staff and loyal regular guests we never would’ve made it this far. For that we say THANK YOU.

Warmly, Bob and Heidi and the Bistro Staff.

A buddy who is long time friends with Bob had warned me this was coming a few months back, but asked to keep it private as the staff didn't know at the time. Apparently they are out of renewal options and the landlord is looking for an absurd rent escalation. Last I heard Bob was going to try and re-open somewhere else, but one of my favorite spots in that area for a pre United Center beer is soon to be no more.

Beer Bistro / Northdown both gone too soon...

Happy to take them in east Humboldt Park/ UK Village

 

[PHBoiler]

In non-More related news...




The Beer Bistro
57 mins ·
For almost 13 years The Beer Bistro has been lucky enough to be your West Loop neighborhood bar, your home away from home, your place to celebrate victories & championships as well as drown your sorrows when things have gone the other way. We’ve watched your families grow, your children walk, your life blossom- and we’ve shared our lives with you. It has been both a privilege and a joy to have had the opportunity to pour you a drink, serve you food, & toast to your good fortune. As all good runs, though, this one has come to its end. It is with some sorrow we must now part ways. Regrettably, we will be closing our doors for good as of May 12, 2018.

We thank you for your friendship and patronage, and hope our paths cross over a cold beer sometime in the not too distant future.
Know that without our amazing staff and loyal regular guests we never would’ve made it this far. For that we say THANK YOU.

Warmly, Bob and Heidi and the Bistro Staff.

A buddy who is long time friends with Bob had warned me this was coming a few months back, but asked to keep it private as the staff didn't know at the time. Apparently they are out of renewal options and the landlord is looking for an absurd rent escalation. Last I heard Bob was going to try and re-open somewhere else, but one of my favorite spots in that area for a pre United Center beer is soon to be no more.

Beer Bistro / Northdown both gone too soon...

Lots of St Patrick’s Days spent at The Stro. Buddy rented the basement for years. Had a couple fantasy drafts there and one even at North during its short tenure. Sometimes on a lazy Saturday Bob would play a whole live Pearl Jam show as the bar music. Went there after Rare Day and immediately popped one open to share with him and the staff. First Hopslam I had was on draft there years ago. Used to be appointment attendance back when a keg of Gumballhead went on a decade ago. We tried with a group of 20 to do every beer in the building in 5 hours and failed. Last time in there I had a great 5 year old Orval.

Hope Bob finds something new and great. He’s good people. I’ve been getting the text updates with numerous bourbon counties being cracked tonight.

 

[Beerlistman]

In non-More related news...




The Beer Bistro
57 mins ·
For almost 13 years The Beer Bistro has been lucky enough to be your West Loop neighborhood bar, your home away from home, your place to celebrate victories & championships as well as drown your sorrows when things have gone the other way. We’ve watched your families grow, your children walk, your life blossom- and we’ve shared our lives with you. It has been both a privilege and a joy to have had the opportunity to pour you a drink, serve you food, & toast to your good fortune. As all good runs, though, this one has come to its end. It is with some sorrow we must now part ways. Regrettably, we will be closing our doors for good as of May 12, 2018.

We thank you for your friendship and patronage, and hope our paths cross over a cold beer sometime in the not too distant future.
Know that without our amazing staff and loyal regular guests we never would’ve made it this far. For that we say THANK YOU.

Warmly, Bob and Heidi and the Bistro Staff.

A buddy who is long time friends with Bob had warned me this was coming a few months back, but asked to keep it private as the staff didn't know at the time. Apparently they are out of renewal options and the landlord is looking for an absurd rent escalation. Last I heard Bob was going to try and re-open somewhere else, but one of my favorite spots in that area for a pre United Center beer is soon to be no more.

Beer Bistro / Northdown both gone too soon...

Been my go to place before Hawks games and other times for over 10 years now. Sad day. Bob had said that the landlord was hiking up his rent to get him out of the building.

It was the last place I had OG Vanilla on tap and coincidentally the last time I puked off of beer. This place will be missed and I wish Bob the best of luck in finding a new spot if that is what he chooses to do.

 

[kodt]

Been my go to place before Hawks games and other times for over 10 years now. Sad day. Bob had said that the landlord was hiking up his rent to get him out of the building.

It was the last place I had OG Vanilla on tap and coincidentally the last time I puked off of beer. This place will be missed and I wish Bob the best of luck in finding a new spot if that is what he chooses to do.

That reminds me, I went in there one time and they had a keg of Baudonia on and no-one was drinking it. I sat there and had several pours with no crowd... that was a good time.

 

[vav1]

Aw man

 

[middlebrow]

as another great beer bar closes can someone point me to the nearest taproom making NEIPA's? weird transitional period in craft beer

 

[trickytunadicky]

It’s all my fault. I have never heard of nor been to this place, but I am their target audience. Oh well.

 

[Dunt1]

In non-More related news...




The Beer Bistro
57 mins ·
For almost 13 years The Beer Bistro has been lucky enough to be your West Loop neighborhood bar, your home away from home, your place to celebrate victories & championships as well as drown your sorrows when things have gone the other way. We’ve watched your families grow, your children walk, your life blossom- and we’ve shared our lives with you. It has been both a privilege and a joy to have had the opportunity to pour you a drink, serve you food, & toast to your good fortune. As all good runs, though, this one has come to its end. It is with some sorrow we must now part ways. Regrettably, we will be closing our doors for good as of May 12, 2018.

We thank you for your friendship and patronage, and hope our paths cross over a cold beer sometime in the not too distant future.
Know that without our amazing staff and loyal regular guests we never would’ve made it this far. For that we say THANK YOU.

Warmly, Bob and Heidi and the Bistro Staff.

A buddy who is long time friends with Bob had warned me this was coming a few months back, but asked to keep it private as the staff didn't know at the time. Apparently they are out of renewal options and the landlord is looking for an absurd rent escalation. Last I heard Bob was going to try and re-open somewhere else, but one of my favorite spots in that area for a pre United Center beer is soon to be no more.

Beer Bistro / Northdown both gone too soon...

That neighborhood is changing and it is definitely not for the better.