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Rating: 3.75
Location: Libertyville, IL
Founded: 1994
Last visited: November 2016
Large, lively space in downtown Libertyville, with a high ceiling, dominated by wooden arches with a criss-cross pattern; brick walls, and a long bar on the left side of the room. They used to be located in a smaller space across the street, but moved a couple of years ago, which is a great improvement. Open every day except Monday. Live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
BEER:
Santa’s Magic Belgian-Style Strong Golden Ale (3.75) – Great example of the style; medium body, slightly sweet, slightly hoppy.
Valkryie Pilsner (3.75) – Medium body, bold hop finish, hugely drinkable.
847 Suburban Wheat Ale (3.25) – Light bodied ale; wheat character prevalent; low hop level.
Bear Down Brown Ale (3.00) – Beer needs more malt; caramel, nutty flavors are evident; could be classified as “Newcastle Light.”
Smoke on the Porter (3.50) – Medium body, rather than full body; smoky character evident, not overpowering; needs more malt to be a great porter.
FOOD:
Full, large menu featuring appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and “bigger meals.” The food has improved since the last visit several years ago. Try the slider appetizer: tasty bbq brisket, bbq pork & beef sliders on brioche buns with a stack of pickles. The “Minnie Burger” is a smaller version of their original “Mickey Burger,” but it’s still a generous, filling, meal with a full size egg bun and fries, even if the burger patty was “only” six ounces.