Lake Effect Brewing Company

Tucked into an alley behind Chicago Costume Shop, in a space once used to make golf clubs, this tiny Northwest Side brewery has become a force to be reckoned with. Owner Clint Bautz opened Lake Effect in 2011, intending to keep the operation modest and debt-free. The focus from the beginning has been on inventive small batches, typified by the “Inland Seas” bomber series where each lake and major geographical features of the Great Lakes system is given a signature beer that reflects its unique character. Lake Effect distributes to local bars, stores and restaurants within a tight radius of only a few miles, but a visit to their bottle shop is a good way to get your hands on some prized brews.