Barrington blends small-town charm with the amenities that make weekends easy to enjoy. For beer enthusiasts, that includes access to an impressive lineup of breweries. Whether you're into small-batch experimental ales, bold IPAs, or smooth lagers, there are several spots nearby that deliver high-quality pours in welcoming spaces. With taprooms that cater to both casual sippers and seasoned craft beer fans, the local brewery scene here continues to grow and evolve. Here’s a closer look at the best local breweries in Barrington, IL, and the surrounding area, all of which are worth a visit no matter your beer style of choice.
Sundial Brewing and Blending
Sundial Brewing and Blending stands out with its emphasis on handcrafted, small-batch brews that often lean into seasonal and experimental flavors. This local favorite has made a name for itself by keeping the menu fresh and dynamic. While you’ll find familiar styles like pale ales and porters on the tap list, Sundial is also known for blending techniques that create depth and complexity in every pour.
The taproom itself is designed to feel approachable. With an industrial-meets-rustic feel and just enough seating to stay social without being crowded, it’s the kind of place where you can try something new and talk with staff who really know their stuff. Flights are a popular choice here, especially for those interested in exploring the nuances of house-fermented and barrel-aged options.
Events like trivia nights, food truck pairings, and rotating guest taps give Sundial a community-driven feel that appeals to locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for a place that takes beer seriously without losing its laid-back atmosphere, this one should be at the top of your list.
The taproom itself is designed to feel approachable. With an industrial-meets-rustic feel and just enough seating to stay social without being crowded, it’s the kind of place where you can try something new and talk with staff who really know their stuff. Flights are a popular choice here, especially for those interested in exploring the nuances of house-fermented and barrel-aged options.
Events like trivia nights, food truck pairings, and rotating guest taps give Sundial a community-driven feel that appeals to locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for a place that takes beer seriously without losing its laid-back atmosphere, this one should be at the top of your list.
Wild Onion Brewery
Just north of downtown Barrington, Wild Onion Brewery in Lake Barrington offers a scenic and well-established destination for both beer and food. The brewery has been around since the mid-1990s and continues to be a reliable go-to for classic styles done well.
Wild Onion’s tap list includes a wide variety of beers, from crisp blondes and citrus-forward IPAs to rich stouts and seasonal lagers. The Pumpkin Ale and Misfit IPA are two recurring favorites, but new additions are added throughout the year to keep things interesting. For those who prefer their beer with a view, the brewery’s location on the lake provides one of the most relaxed outdoor seating areas in the region.
Inside, the space feels warm and inviting. It's part brewpub, part full-service restaurant, which makes it a great choice for groups or family outings. The menu includes everything from burgers and flatbreads to weekend brunch specials. Wild Onion also frequently hosts weddings, private events, and live music—proof that it’s more than a brewery; it’s a true gathering spot for the community.
Wild Onion’s tap list includes a wide variety of beers, from crisp blondes and citrus-forward IPAs to rich stouts and seasonal lagers. The Pumpkin Ale and Misfit IPA are two recurring favorites, but new additions are added throughout the year to keep things interesting. For those who prefer their beer with a view, the brewery’s location on the lake provides one of the most relaxed outdoor seating areas in the region.
Inside, the space feels warm and inviting. It's part brewpub, part full-service restaurant, which makes it a great choice for groups or family outings. The menu includes everything from burgers and flatbreads to weekend brunch specials. Wild Onion also frequently hosts weddings, private events, and live music—proof that it’s more than a brewery; it’s a true gathering spot for the community.
The Lucky Monk
Located in South Barrington, The Lucky Monk offers a mix of house-brewed beers and elevated American fare in a space that balances casual comfort with a polished touch. The in-house brewing operation focuses on a core group of styles that range from hoppy IPAs and smooth pilsners to rich amber ales. Seasonal releases and rotating guest taps offer variety for regulars. While the beer holds its own, The Lucky Monk is also well-regarded for its menu, especially the burgers and wood-fired pizzas.
With plenty of indoor seating and a large patio, the space accommodates everything from family dinners to after-work meetups. The service is attentive, and the environment strikes the right tone whether you're there for a quick beer or a long, relaxed evening. It’s also conveniently located near The Arboretum of South Barrington, so it pairs well with a bit of weekend shopping or entertainment.
With plenty of indoor seating and a large patio, the space accommodates everything from family dinners to after-work meetups. The service is attentive, and the environment strikes the right tone whether you're there for a quick beer or a long, relaxed evening. It’s also conveniently located near The Arboretum of South Barrington, so it pairs well with a bit of weekend shopping or entertainment.
Phase Three Brewing
About 13 minutes east in Lake Zurich, Phase Three Brewing Company has quickly earned a strong reputation in the regional craft beer scene. Known for its hazy IPAs, rich stouts, and fruited sours, Phase Three attracts serious beer fans from all over the Chicago suburbs.
What started as a small operation has grown rapidly due to its high standards and bold flavor profiles. Limited releases often draw lines out the door, and regulars keep an eye on the brewery’s social media to catch new drops. While the focus is clearly on the beer, the taproom doesn’t cut corners on comfort. It’s open, airy, and built for both quick visits and longer hangs.
Phase Three’s commitment to experimentation and consistent quality keeps it firmly in the conversation when locals talk about top-tier beer in the area. Whether you’re into juicy IPAs or dessert-inspired stouts, this spot delivers standout options that push the envelope without losing balance.
What started as a small operation has grown rapidly due to its high standards and bold flavor profiles. Limited releases often draw lines out the door, and regulars keep an eye on the brewery’s social media to catch new drops. While the focus is clearly on the beer, the taproom doesn’t cut corners on comfort. It’s open, airy, and built for both quick visits and longer hangs.
Phase Three’s commitment to experimentation and consistent quality keeps it firmly in the conversation when locals talk about top-tier beer in the area. Whether you’re into juicy IPAs or dessert-inspired stouts, this spot delivers standout options that push the envelope without losing balance.
Tips for Planning Your Brewery Visits
If you’re mapping out a weekend of brewery visits, start by checking each location’s hours and food offerings. Some are full-service restaurants, while others partner with rotating food trucks or encourage outside food. Reservations aren’t typically needed, but they can be helpful on weekends, especially at Wild Onion or The Lucky Monk during peak dining hours.
For those new to craft beer, ordering a flight is a smart way to sample a few styles without committing to a full pint. Many of these breweries also sell cans or growlers to go, which makes it easy to bring a new favorite home.
If you’re interested in learning more about the brewing process, keep an eye out for tours or tasting events. Some breweries offer behind-the-scenes looks at their operations, especially during beer release parties or special anniversaries.
For those new to craft beer, ordering a flight is a smart way to sample a few styles without committing to a full pint. Many of these breweries also sell cans or growlers to go, which makes it easy to bring a new favorite home.
If you’re interested in learning more about the brewing process, keep an eye out for tours or tasting events. Some breweries offer behind-the-scenes looks at their operations, especially during beer release parties or special anniversaries.
Find a Home That Pairs Well with Your Lifestyle
When you're ready to explore beyond the local breweries in Barrington, IL, and dive into its real estate market, working with an expert can help you make informed choices that reflect your priorities and your lifestyle. John Morrison understands what makes Barrington such a desirable place to live and brings years of experience helping buyers and sellers navigate the local market. Whether you're new to the area or making a change, John can help you find the right fit, right down to a home near your favorite neighborhood brewery.
*Header image courtesy of Pexels
*Header image courtesy of Pexels