Guinness To Open Brewery, Taproom In Chicago's West Loop This Summer

CHICAGO — For many area beer enthusiasts, Guinness’ popularity and drinkability extend far behind St. Patrick’s Day. It’s that kind of brand loyalty and support that the Dublin-based brewery hopes will make its decision to open its second U.S.-based taproom in Chicago this summer worth lifting a pint.

Guinness recently announced it will open a brewery and taproom in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood this summer. The Guinness Open Gate Brewery will feature locally inspired beers and community collaborations as part of a beer experience that company officials will be a good fit in a city well-accustomed to quality drinking establishments.

The taproom will be located at 901 W. Kinzie St. and company officials said the location will deliver an “American craft beer experience that is authentically Guinness and distinctly local.” The space will showcase local collaborations that highlight the rich history and flavors of Chicago, according to a news release, and brings the style of each of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods to life.

Guinness' other U.S.-based brewery is in Baltimore.

“As we grow closer to the opening date, we are looking forward to the brewery becoming a part of our new neighborhood with a lively food and beverage program, unique retail offerings, and impactful community partnerships,” Ryan Wagner, the national ambassador for Guinness said in the release.

Company officials said the brewery’s name takes inspiration from the Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Dublin – the brand’s original location. Guinness has made its way to Chicago since 1910, and company officials hope to continue the tradition of the brewery’s long-standing relationship with Chicago through the coming taproom and brewery location in the West Loop.

The new site plans to work with Chicago-based coffee company Intelligentsia on developing and implementing its coffee program and will continue its partnership with Baltimore's Cane Collective on the development of both beer cocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails.

“At the Guinness Open Gate Brewery, we are engaging with the community through a number of local Chicago partnerships, and we’re just getting started,” Wagner said. “It is extremely important that we highlight the diversity of our new home and continue to lead in sustainability initiatives that work towards the greater good.”

Others associated with the soon-to-be-opening brewery and taproom agree.

“Guinness has a long history of hospitality, communion, and bringing people together from all walks of life, and that fits so well with the spirit of Chicago,” Rodney Williams, president, Diageo Beer Company said in a news release. “This is a great moment in time for Guinness in America, and we can’t wait to tap into all the different flavors and variety of heritages represented in this great city.”