Great selection of Beer! Lot of German brews but they've got some other options too and the bar tender knew just what to recommend! The double bar style was neat and and had a vintage vibe to it. Really nice back patio garden for afternoon cheers ! read more

Hopleaf Bar - Other Half - Broccoli (Brooklyn, NY) 7.9% - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I found the best Pils I have had since Germany in this neat little stop, along with a fantastically paired beet and asparagus salad, and some pommes frites that brought me back to my European travels years ago. There were not a lot of vegetarian options at this one (pretty much just the salad) but I'd still opt into HopLeaf for the vast assortment of European beers and sumptuous snacks, especially for those who like to reminisce over their years abroad. The pours and glasses were really just like the biergartens in Germany! read more

Hopleaf Bar - A great Pils and real German sized pours! - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Is this the best beer bar in Chicago? If they're not wearing the crown now, tell me who is. Hopleaf has the most extensive draft menu that one can imagine. Beer wise, there is literally something for everyone. And the draft menu is always changing too. You'll never get bored enjoying a few cold ones at Hopleaf. That's for sure. It's a good size space too: 2 different bar sides to sit, tables and booths, one section with a fireplace, upstairs seating and even an outdoor patio in the back. The food menu is decent too. It might be a little more expensive than 'bar food' but that's because it's trying to be something more. There are many people who come here to eat and drink. I feel like they are going for a higher quality so expect the price to match. Either way, come here if you're a beer lover. And if you get hungry or need something to soak it up, take advantage of the food options. I've been here more times than I could count and all I recall is one good experience after another. Cheers. read more

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I really enjoy going to this establishment I get to relax and enjoy a good beer. The food is pretty good especially the pork Even though the serving size is small but the flavor is to die for so it is worth it to me They have a variety of beer and other drinks but for me is the beer if I want something light or malty and heavy I will find it here the service is good they do their best to accommodate you and take care of you. I definitely recommend this establishment to relax and enjoy a good beer read more

I have quickly made Hopleaf my go-to spot in Andersonville. I have been here a couple of times to drink at the bar but this was my first time sitting down for table service. We opted to sit outside on their back patio which is such a cute little area. Also PSA - Hopleaf is a 21+ establishment, no exceptions at all. We were seated after a few minutes and it took a little bit to be greeted by a server but they were pretty busy on the back patio so we just went with it. I'm so glad we did! My husband and I ordered the mussels and frites for 2 which was such a great deal and delicious! The garlic aioli that comes with the fries is absolute heaven. We also decided to split the CB&J and this was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had. The bread was toasted perfectly and it was such a nice balance between the raclette cheese and fig jam. Add this to your list of places to try IMMEDIATELY! read more

The food is okay; not a ton of variety for a vegetarian. The place has different menus for different spots which is weird but it's also super loud and hard to converse there. If that's your thing and drinks are what you're after this would be a great place for you. read more

MASSIVE | FRIES | MENU MASSIVE: Hopleaf is deceptively very large. They have two stories and when you walk around you feel like you are in the catacombs. There are a variety of compartments, sitting areas, alcoves for parties from anywhere from 2-10 people. FRIES: I consider myself a French fry connoisseur. Monica and I normally get fries (regular or sweet potato) as our standard appetizer. Also, growing up as a kid it was the go to for my dad and I as quick bites to share. These fries are DEF top 10 all time. They are of the shoestring variety but, the difference is that they are tender and have the perfect amount of seasoning. Normally shoestring fries are Crispy like small chips, but these are not. So definitely grab some for your table whenever you go. MENU: When Monica and I research Hopleaf it was hyped as one of the top 100 bars in America. I've been out a lot, and I would say whether you are just grabbing a drink with friends, want to play games in a corner, or enjoy a nice meal with friends, Hopleaf is pretty ideal. The menu has a lot of variety, especially with regards to spirits, mixed drinks, and beers. For food I had the half chicken which was very filling. Pro tip: They do not take reservations, so show up 10-15 early to LSE sure you get a seat in an ideal location. Pro tip: If you want to have a good conversation work to get a table in the second floor. The first floor can be nosy with all the commotion. read more

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I was pleasantly surprised when my wife and in-laws happened across this place. We were waking around in Andersonville and thought we'd grab a beer and a snack. It's in a cool old building with a bunch of small nooks and multiple levels that you can enjoy an adult beverage in - they also have a very nice, heated, back patio. The beer selection is great, but the food was what surprised me. I took a chance and ordered the mussels because it was listed as their signature item, and I have to say they did not disappoint. Perhaps the best mussels I've had since I was in Nova Scotia a few years back. Also, the French fries were killer, the soup of the day was great and I tried my wife's sandwich which was also great. It's a small and simple menu but everything is executed very well. Oh, and it's adults only so don't plan on bringing the kiddos. read more

Solid spot to grab drinks. Food selection is somewhat limited in my opinion. I mean. This is more of a gastropub than it is a restaurant, but I was hoping for a bit more options on the food menu. I order the chicken sandwich and I feel like for the price, it wasn't all that great. Lacked some juicy flavorness for sure. I feel like a got a whole bucketload of fries with it though. Kind of obsessive. I wish the sandwich was bigger and the fries were less. My beers on the other hand were excellent. I love the amount of on tap drafts they have. I ordered two Pseudo Sue's and they were delicious! I love hazier beers so they were perfect in my mind. I wouldn't mind coming back in the summer to check out their patio. read more

Excellent food and brews. Lovely relaxing patio. Waitstaff good not great, had to ask three times for a water refill

Hopleaf has always been (and should always be) a 5 star bar/restaurant. The food, atmosphere, staff and clientele have always been amazing. Last night though, a bartender in the front bar was an absolute dick. One of the best parts about experiencing Hopleaf is learning about beer so when I go, I always ask a few questions and have always found the bartenders happy to share their knowledge since they stock dozens of beers both on tap and bottles/cans. But when I asked this guy what he would recommend if I prefer less hops/more malt, he replied, "I'd prefer you read the menu." Nice. I felt so welcome. I'll go back and hope he's gone. read more

I've been to Hopleaf a couple times and it's generally a solid spot. Very neighborhoody, with an extensive beer menu and good food. Without a reservation, our group of three was able to be seated right away on a Monday night. Their menu has lots of comfort food perfect for Chicago winter and this time around I tried the duck reuben - delicious! Both food and drink came out quickly but our waitress was just ok - early on we asked for some beer recommendations and she wasn't very helpful. Then, we ran into a big issue when my friend found a tag in her food. Turns out, it belonged to the dish towel used to wipe plates clean but nevertheless our waitress was nonchalant about it and did not comp my friend's meal. I think this could have been handled better, but recognize it's probably a rare occurrence. I would still return for drinks or a meal. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Duck reuben + fries - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

You and I both know that Hopleaf is a wonderous Chicago institution, overflowing with beers both impressive and refreshing from Belgium and all corners of the globe, and mussels that never buckle under the weight of their far reaching and well deserved reputation. But did you know that Hopleaf is an unsung champion of wine? Well now you do, verily, for I have proclaimed it. Indeed, from Priorat to Amarone to Gigondas to St. Joseph to Chateauneuf-du-Pape - seriously, Chateauneuf-du-Pape??? hubba hubba, I'm in love - you have a smorgasbord of wines loved by wine drinkers from which to choose. And given that Hopleaf has an amazingly customer friendly policy of flat pricing - $50 for most of the reds, $40 for the whites - you won't find a better price in a restaurant - or even in a liquor store - in the city. And sometimes, you will find a wine that you may have never seen or heard of before, as I did earlier this summer when I rolled upon the Maison Arretxea Irouleguy Rosé 2015, from Basque Country in France. A rich, earthy, spicy wine, it was sui generis and a perfect pairing with mussels on a hot summer's day. Hopleaf - its not just for beer lovers. read more

What an unsettling experience. My friend and I stopped in one night for dinner and drinks and right off the bat our server was intense. We originally asked for a table for two but found out our friend was joining in a bit so asked to be moved to a table for three. This clearly offended our server as they made sure to point out the section we were in would be closing early and started interrogating us about when our friend was arriving and how they were planning on getting here. It was bizarre. When finally ordering we got the cheese platter and drinks to start. All were delish but again with the server. We made a joke about using the candle to make fondue with out cheese plate (which we obviously weren't gonna do) and they got so serious telling us not to do that cause we could start a fire. Like girl...we're not children. Then we went to order second round of drinks and ordered a cider. The server interrupted us to tell us that "if we're looking at the online menu it's probably wrong" but they could give us a rec. we had not looked at the online menu lol we were ordering from the paper menus in front of us. Overall I'm hesitant to go back. The food was good and the atmosphere was cool but it was such an odd experience otherwise. read more

~Monica's T.A.S.T.E. Test~ Taste: Fries, amazing. cauliflower salad, amazing. Chimay blue beer, AMAZING. Legit everything here was outrageously good. All the flavors in the salad worked so well together and it was just the right size for my light appetite. I would have loved to try the wood grilled cauliflower entrée, but I just wasn't that hungry. Let me know if you do! The fries are perfectly seasoned and served with mayo, and the Chimay is a Christmas beer and not overly malty. SO good. Atmosphere: We sat on the second floor in a secluded corner which was perfect for our dinner date with friends. We were able to overlook the restaurant and have a personal conversation. Service: Everyone was very attentive and fast. The food was especially fast. Another huge plus here. Tab: Definitely Andersonville prices, around $45 a head for 4 people. But seeing how it was delicious, it was worth it. Extra wow factor: They have so many options for beer and wine. It was borderline overwhelming, but they do a great job describing each taste. Does it pass the T.A.S.T.E test? Heck yes! I cant wait to be back. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Cauliflower & Parsnip salad - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Food is always good and today was no exception. However we were basically ignored by our server. Almost felt like she didn't like us. We barely talked to her so I don't know why the attitude. read more

Clearly not popular opinion but I thought Hopleaf was just ok. Full disclosure, I've been wanting to go here, based on vegetarian options and french fry reputation, for literally years and years; so it's quite possible that I had built up highly unrealistic expectations. I want to start by commending them on social distancing and other Covid precautions, I felt safe in the dining room. I'm sure I'd feel less so in the bar area, but, hey, it's a bar. Also the staff is numerous, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We ordered the broccoli appetizer which was quite good and the famous French fries (it's a huge serving) which were super salty. If you prefer a thick fry, as I do, you should know that these are thin fries. Apps were followed by the salmon which was just ok and which was served with a yummy melange of root veggies. read more

Came to this patio because I've heard so many great things about the beer. My boyfriend was in town and he loves a food brew. We went around 4pm so had no issues grabbing a table on the patio. The beers were delicious BUT the fries were amazing. They were salted to perfection and the aioli sauce was so flavorful. The beer list is extensive! So I highly recommend coming here if you're interested in trying a variety of different beers! read more

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This has become the my husband and my go-to date spot for when we get a last minute kid free date night. It's 21 and over only so we don't run the risk of other people's kids either! They always have a great selection of beers on tap and the servers are so helpful with recommendations. Everything I've ordered are delish- but we always share the mussels frites. It's bigger than it looks as there is a second bar that's frequently less crowded so head back and to the left to get to it if waiting! read more

Cool chill spot to eat and drink. Open seating with bar service in the two bar areas and seated service in another area. Food was brought out pretty promptly after ordering from the bar. Will definitely need to come back when in the area. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Mussels for One - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great selection of beer and wine with a cool ambiance. But my review must be 85 characters. But my review must be 85 characters. But my review must be 85 characters. read more

Finally got to check Hopleaf off my restaurant list! The moules frites lived up to the hype, and do love the massive serving of frites that come with. My chief complaint would be that the fries just weren't hot...like lukewarm at best. Also tried the Reuben which was good, but dang the bread was soooo greasy/oily and honestly didn't have a ton of actual brisket. Wouldn't order again. Same issue with fries not being hot (or even warm). Entrees at other tables looked great, so would definitely try those but felt prices were very steep for what was being served ($50 steak? come on, not a steakhouse) Service was ok - took about 15-20 minutes for a server to come by after being seated. Would come back for the mussels and try the CBJ, but not running back. read more

The smoke chicken load fries were very good. Service was a little rushed because we arrived around 9:30 pm the kitchen was closing read more

Mussels are delicious and my go to. We really like sitting at the counter by the kitchen and picking out what we'll try next but we always get the mussels anyway. Great beer selection, friendly staff my only nit pik is it's gets loud, but you know, people + yummy beer = loud read more

I've been going to Hopleaf since the late 80's. I've seen all of the changes and most for the better. Their food options aren't quite as many as their beer options. I like the pork belly and the baratta is good but they don't give you enough toasted bread with it. Instead they charge you for more which you need since the baratta is a good size. The fries are not so good. Kind of limpy and soggy and greasy. I think if they kept their fryers hotter, they wouldn't absorb so much grease. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Baratta with toasts and salad is yummy. - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Food was good but service was awful. Maybe that was because we split a sandwich and an extra side of fries. I could've used a refill on my iced tea but our server was too busy to look up from her phone to notice. With so many other options, I won't waste my time or money here again. read more

First visit to this hidden gem in Andersonville. The food and beer selection were great. The best muscles ever. Will go back! read more

It has been my third times coming here. To begin with, I am not an alcoholic​ but with the long list of the beers and other alcohol selections, I can't believe​ I am saying this but, I secretly wish I could have a stronger "passion" for drinks. But do not fear, I am certain that as many other foodies out there, we are all coming for their mussels​. I usually ordered​ their Ginger Coconut sauce mussels, absolutely​ fabulous! Which it came with some bread​ on the side. You really can't go wrong with any beer because many of them go very well with the dish. Two weeks ago on my third-time​ visited, we were being a little more adventures​ , thus decided to order the duck sandwich- the meat was very tender and a bit​ fatten which was perfect​ with the alcohol. This place has a perfect setting for date night​. From the dining​ tables by the fireplace​ to the small tables by the kitchen where you can see your chefs do their magic, as well as the second floor for a more private environment​. Every corner was cozy and roomie. I do however suggest to RSVP if possible just in case​ because this place does​o got pretty pack. Also, usually pretty easy to find street parking around the restaurant. read more

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The fries are good, almost great. It's skinny which means crispy. Mussels have zero fishy taste and are amazing! Often chefs are determine to give you that clean taste of seafood to the detriment of its taste - not these mussels. It's flavorful and savory without assaulting your tongue. Duck Reuben was OK. The rye bread was over toasted and I couldn't taste the duck. Also it was a little greasy. The exposed brick with the beer garden signs give this place character, and the service was attentive and professional. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Mussels with Seafood Broth - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

They are a solid anchor of the area at this point in time and the Mussels are probably the best thing on the menu and could really use an order right NOW read more

Food and drinks were all amazing. The inside was very cool and there were multiple different rooms/areas to be seated in and the patio was nice as well. Staff was nice but we sat in a section where there was no table service so we had to go to the bar to order. read more

Hopleaf Bar - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Surprised I haven't reviewed Hopleaf yet as it's one of my favorite bars in the city ! Hopleaf is an amazing beer bar/gastropub with great food in Andersonville. They have an excellent selection of beers on tap. Any time I am in the neighborhood, I try to visit them because they are that good. I stopped by on a weeknight around 6:30pm and was able to find a seat at the front bar. I ordered a Deth Tar by Revolution and an order of mussels. Hopleaf is known for their mussels and they are incredible as always! They also came with a huge order of fries and some aioli. My other favorite entrees are the CB&J and Brisket Reuben sandwiches. Service was good and prices are fair. Overall, Hopleaf is one of the best beer bars in the city and they serve great food in a cozy atmosphere. Definitely a place you should check out! read more

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Great food. Great spot. One of the oldest and best Gastropubs in Chicago, perhaps in the US. We're grateful to have it here still in business. read more

Food and drinks were good. I had the cb&j which was quite small for the sandwich with a LOT of fries, so that portion was the only disappointing part of the meal. Shared one of the salads and it was really yummy. Our beers were great, didn't have time to get another one because we were going to see a show. Would definitely like to go back and try something else read more

Um...yum! Came here to visit with my daughter and her partner. Got there @12:15 on a Sunday afternoon and was seated right away. Beers...so many good ones. Food! Delicious. Fried maitake mushrooms! Yum! Light, delicate and unique. Cheese plate was OK. Glad I tried it but the granola was hard to eat. But beets were nice! Then mac and cheese and the rueben! So good. I'm looking forward to coming back and trying more and enjoying their outdoor area! read more

Amazing food! Great beer selections, and so many choices. Service was stellar. Wait staff very attentive and offered excellent choices. Ambiance was eclectic, but a great relaxing place. read more

Great bar, but don't even think about booking a private event. My husband and I wanted to host a small (20 person) lunch, so we filled out the intake form on their website as instructed. The following is how "professional" their management staff is: June 1- event request form sent June 7- no reply yet, so I call the restaurant. Sarah, who I'm guessing is a manager, kept cutting me off when explaining - "well where did you send it to? Who was the recipient?" [like I would have any clue? It's your website, not mine!] June 8- forward the form I had already submitted to Sarah, since I was apparently unbelievable. June 10- Sarah promises an answer in a day June 16- no answer, so I reach out for a status update. June 17- one of the two dates i wanted in Sept was confirmed by Sarah to be booked, promises to have an answer within a day. Folks it's now July 17. No answer. I don't know why they even say they offer events if they are apparently blindsided when someone follows the process. read more

My rating was based on hostess' service. I went in on August 3, 2024 at 3 pm to get a table for 5 on the patio. I was informed by hostess that I could not be seated until my entire party was there. They arrived and I went back to hostess and was then told there was no table for 5 available!! There was no offer to push 2 tables together either. I told her that I was there but was told to wait and now table is taken. Was offered inside and asked for table in back near window and was questioned am I drinking and eating, I said both. We were not seated there either. We were shown to big loud room which we refused. We opted for the bar. Why is there such a restrictive seating policy? Couldn't we have been advised that I could get the table with the caveat that if my party did not arrive in 15 min I would have to move. Its goofy. read more

I was annoyed to see Hopleaf has very few vegan items on the menu. That in itself is a bold choice in the year of 2024. After pouring over a menu of dead animal carcasses, I decided I had to leave my friends (another vegan did the same) to run over to Penelope's Vegan Taqueria to get food because Hopleaf has Little Bunny Fou Fou on the menu and I didn't want ANYTHING from that kitchen. (It reminded me of the scene in Roger and Me by Michael Moore, where people are so poor they're selling rabbits "for food or pets.") They're such small animals you have to kill more individuals (which creates more suffering) than with other farmed animals. It's just weird and wrong. It's an obnoxious thing to put on a menu. My gut instinct about this restaurant, (that the owners have a vendetta against animals) has been confirmed by the comments made by the owner on this review. read more

Wow, really really really good food. If you're a beer person, great there's a lot for you too. I am not a beer person, I enjoyed a really good Rose. So if you have people that are beer people, take them here and you will so not be disappointed. I had a burger delicious we also shared mussels both ways and it's hard to tell which one we liked better. read more