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View Full Version : The Hop Leaf


steveh
05-16-2003, 06:59 AM
5148 North Clark in Chicago. I've heard about this bar, probably since it opened in 1992, and traveled past it many times without stopping - so in I went to meet some friends last night.

30 tap handles - not a swill beer to be found. I didn't take the time to count, but the bottled beer menu was a two sided, diner style menu - 12 x 18 inches. Translation: mucho beer, mucho decisions.

Since it was a school night and I was driving, I only sampled a few - and didn't take the plunge into the many Belgian ales available on tap - The Hop Leaf's claim to fame, but I'll be back!

The tavern has recently expanded to include a beer garden and a banquet room - and as soon as they get their restaurant permit, will be serving food - with a Belgian flair, of course.

Quiet jazz and blues on the stereo, tables, booths, and plenty of bar seating with neighborhood folk sharing the pub comradery - check it out if you're in the neighborhood - but practice your patience and parallel parking if you're driving!

S.

Redbird Fan
05-16-2003, 10:18 AM
here's some additional info on the hop leaf......

(some of their beers are pretty pricey)

http://www.mhtg.org/travel/hopleaf.html

steveh
05-16-2003, 01:42 PM
Originally posted by Redbird Fan
(some of their beers are pretty pricey)

Not for Chicago. I was drinking Three Floyd's Pride and Joy mild at $3.50 a pint (U.S.). Other places that would be $5 a pint.

Some of the prices you see on the Belgian beers are in the large size bottle or large size draft glass too.

'Course, maybe St. Lou is less pricey all 'round! Go Cards!

S.