After 15 long years as a beloved pillar of the Logan Square neighborhood, Revolution Brewing is set to close the doors of its original brewpub on December 14th. This iconic Chicago establishment, having risen to become Illinois' largest independently owned brewery, has faced challenges in the wake of the pandemic that have led to the difficult decision to shut down its premises at 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave, as announced on its Facebook page.
The brewpub, which has been a cornerstone of Chicago's craft beer scene, struggled in recent years to regain the lively atmosphere and throngs of customers it once hosted. Bearing the brunt of worsened operating losses, the business found itself at a juncture with no viable choice but to cease operations at the location. This sentiment was echoed with reflections about the brewpub's vibrant past, including its role in hosting joyous events and serving up pioneering beers like the Anti-Hero IPA that left indelible marks on the local craft beer community.
In an outpouring of emotion, the brewery's statement reflected on the communal spirit that thrived at the brewpub since its inception, "Starting on day one in early 2010, a community formed at the brewpub around great food and exceptionally crafted beers and we are forever grateful for the support we received from so many of you." Recollections of the early days emphasized how few breweries existed at the time and the subsequent boom inspired by Revolution's success, now counting nearly a hundred different beer crafting establishments in the city. This community-driven narrative highlights not only the loss of a venue but a historical chapter in Chicago's fermentation follies.
In a positive note, the brewery reassured patrons and supporters that its Kedzie Avenue location will remain fully operational and open to the public. This announcement will ensure that Revolution Brewing's legacy and its craft beers will continue to be part of Chicago's rich brewing landscape. As the Milwaukee Avenue brewpub prepares to pour its final pints, the management is committed to aiding staff through the transition. "It pains us to have to say goodbye to so many hard-working members of our crew," the company empathized, offering severance packages and extended benefits to those affected, heralding their resilience as they "take on their next challenge," according to a CBS Chicago report.
The closure of Revolution Brewing's original Milwaukee Avenue location marks the end of an era that will be remembered fondly by those who visited and worked at the brewpub. While change is often bittersweet, the end of service on December 14th will likely be met with a mixture of sadness for the past and hope for the future endeavors of Chicago's trailblazing brewery.
