Did you know Chicago boasts a vibrant enclave known as “Malt Row”? Nestled within the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor and its surrounding area, this locale has earned acclaim as “Chicago’s most diverse beer destination.” Whether your palate favors a crisp German-style lager, the complexity of a barrel-aged Barleywine, or the zest of a spontaneously fermented saison, Malt Row caters to all tastes. And it’s not just about beer; the corridor is also home to KOVAL, Chicago’s pioneering post-prohibition distillery, and VIN312 Winery.

Meandering along the Metra tracks that slice through Ravenswood Avenue, you’ll encounter a landscape dotted with majestic industrial edifices. Some house metalworkers, manufacturers, commercial bakeries, and artist studios. Venture outdoors, and you’ll find a verdant greenway flanking the tracks adorned with trees, community gardens, sculptures, and inviting picnic spots.

Formerly a bustling hub of industry at the turn of the century, the Ravenswood Corridor has undergone a metamorphosis into a vibrant tapestry of creative enterprises and artisans, seamlessly integrated into a residential backdrop. Intersecting with Montrose Avenue, a trendy commercial district, the corridor merges seamlessly into a lively tableau of cafes, taverns, boutiques, and restaurants. Sidewalk patios and vibrant murals adorn the streets, while art studios, gift shops, and a homebrew supply store add to the eclectic mix. The rumble of the CTA’s Brown Line and the bustling new Metra Station at Lawrence Avenue serve as gateways from busier, more monochromatic locales to the scenic charm of Ravenswood.

Heading north of Foster Avenue into Bowmanville reveals another facet of the Industrial Corridor. Tucked away in this tranquil residential community lies the expansive campus of Tempel Steel, flanked by industrial buildings along Wolcott and Balmoral. Here, too, community gardens, murals, and mosaic installations adorn the surroundings. Nearby on Foster and Damen Avenues, a culinary adventure awaits with cafes, pizzerias, taquerias, and the picturesque Winnemac Park.

Malt Row boasts an illustrious history, nurturing giants of the Chicago beer scene such as Half Acre (still thriving!) and Metropolitan (celebrating over a decade of brewing in 2021). Notable past tenants include Band of Bohemia (the world’s first Michelin-starred brewpub), Hop Butcher for the World (soon to return), Aquanaut Brewing Co., and Letherbee Distillery.

Today, Malt Row is a bustling hub housing over 10 independent craft breweries, an internationally acclaimed distillery, an innovative winery, and the world headquarters of the Cicerone Certification Program.

Navigating Malt Row is a breeze, thanks to its walkability and excellent accessibility via CTA Brown Line, the UP-North Ravenswood Metra, and abundant bike-sharing options. Grab a copy of our Malt Row Guidebook and embark on an unforgettable journey through this dynamic locale.

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