While Guinness originally hoped to open its Chicago taproom in time for Saint Patrick’s Day, it experienced some delays, which moved its official opening date to Sept. 28. Immediately stepping foot into the new Chicago location, it’s easy to see that the wait was worth it.

The Guinness Open Gate Brewery is now open in Chicago. This marks the second U.S. location for Guinness. The other U.S. location is in Baltimore, Maryland.

At the Chicago location, which is located in Fulton Market, customers can enjoy beers from Ireland, Baltimore, and new beers exclusive to the Chicago location. The brewery serves food, which pulls from a combination of Irish and West African influences. The Chicago location houses Guinness’ first bakery, featuring Intelligentsia coffee, brown bread and incredible cookies. There’s an outdoor patio in case Chicago decides to bless residents and visitors with a few more warm days this year. If you’ve got something to celebrate, there’s also a large private event space, with a separate bar and plenty of seating.

Not Another Irish Pub

There are plenty of Irish pubs across Chicago, and Guinness doesn’t intend to compete with those. Instead, it offers a unique experience pulling from the iconic Guinness brand, with a few Chicago exclusives. Yes, you can get arguably the best pint of Guinness in Chicago, but you can also grab coffee and some baked goods from the first  Guinness bakery. Come hungry to the brewery to enjoy a food menu that combines Irish and West African influences. The menu offers lighter fare and plenty of comfort food, whether you’re craving (very) spicy chicken suya skewers or Guinness beef stew.

Launching Without a Flagship, Intentionally

Being a newcomer to the Chicago beer scene, Guinness chose to open without any flagship beers. Instead, its staff hopes to have customers decide which of their favorite beer styles stick around, or stay for a season. The tap list is broken into three sections; Brewed in Chicago, Brewed in Dublin, and Brewed in Baltimore. The obvious first choice is a Guinness Draught but be sure to stay for one (or two) more. Try the Breakfast Tea Amber Ale from Baltimore or the Corn Maize Cream Ale, new to Chicago. If you’re looking to branch out even more, there are also a few beer cocktails on the menu, combining beers brewed in Chicago with Pour Souls mixers.

Make a Reservation to Avoid a Line

With such a highly anticipated opening, expect some crowds. You can make a reservation online to avoid the lines. Once inside, you’ll find options for table service or you can walk up to the giant harp-shaped bar to place your order.

Featuring Guinness’s First Bakery

Yes, you can go to Guinness at 8 a.m. While there’s no beer service Monday or Tuesday, you can visit the bakery and retail shop beginning at 8 a.m. on weekdays. If you’re looking for beer (understood), service begins promptly at 11 a.m. Wednesdays until 11 p.m. weekdays and Sundays, and midnight on Saturdays. On weekends, you can also visit for brunch, which features corned beef benedict and a traditional Irish breakfast.

Sláinte!

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