You don’t need to be a craft beer enthusiast to tap into a good time at Hopvine Brewing Company in Aurora. Since October 2013, owners Jan and Doug Isley have provided diners with a variety of reasons to make the brewery and restaurant a place to frequent.
With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and an extensive menu that goes well beyond typical bar fare, diners may at first come for the beer, but they come back for everything else.
“We want people to be comfortable here,” said Jan, who runs the day-to-day operations. “We want them to feel that this is a warm and welcoming place where they can sit, eat, drink and enjoy.”
Here’s the scoop on this local establishment.
What’s on the menu?
Hopvine Brewing Company serves up appetizers, lunch and dinner options, from half-pound burgers, salads and wraps to a full slab of ribs. Of course, they boast a wide selection of craft beers along with many wines and specialty cocktails. A gluten-free menu, kids’ menu and impressive brunch menu are also available.
About the owner(s):
Residents of Naperville for two decades, Jan and Doug Isley have previous industry experience and were looking for the right place to establish their own brewpub. Along with their daughter and son-in-law, who assist in the day-to-day operations, they plan to make Hopvine Brewing Company a place diners will enjoy for generations to come.
A mission statement or philosophy:
The mission of Hopvine is to provide a warm and welcoming place where people can relax, imbibe and enjoy a great meal. With a focus on using the freshest ingredients and making things from scratch, it’s a recipe that keeps customers coming back.
What’s the décor like?
Upscale casual comes to mind when you enter this brew pub which boasts exposed stonework, dark woods and rich tones. Whether you choose a booth, table or opt for a seat at the long bar, there’s plenty of comfortable seating for a small family or big group. Large windows allow visitors a glimpse into the craft brewing process where they can see the brewery and fermentation room.
Food specialties:
More Top Picks Auditory Processing Disorder Vs Adhd How To Tell
The chicken and waffles entrée of crispy buttermilk fried chicken over a homemade waffle, topped with jalapeno slaw and maple ginger syrup is a favorite. The smoked potato, topped with pulled pork, onion strings and barbecue sauce proves that a spud isn’t a side dish here. They smoke their own meat and chicken wings, and make their own sausage and jam. In the summer, they grow vegetables and herbs in their chef’s garden, and diners can sit amidst it while they enjoy a cold one.
We’re different because:
This family owned and operated establishment works hard to provide a unique dining experience for each guest. With attention to using only the freshest ingredients and a clever menu that changes with the seasons, Hopvine hopes to become a Fox Valley staple.
Extras:
There is outdoor seating on the patio during summer months. Want to be entertained? There are acoustic music performances on Friday and Saturday nights. Hopvine can be reserved for banquets, parties or events on Mondays when they are closed, and a special banquet menu is available.
Price range:
Appetizers are around $5 for onion rings or fried pickles, and lunch options range from $6 to about $12 for salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps that come with a side. The famous smoked potato is $12 and a half slab of ribs is $16. Beers range from $5 to $7 depending on the size of pour, and flights of beer are also available. There are daily drink specials like “Tini Tuesdays,” where specialty martinis are $5.
Logistics:
Hopvine Brewing Company is located at 4030 Fox Valley Center Drive in Aurora, just west of Westfield Fox Valley Mall and across from Toys “R”Us. Their hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 4 to 11 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. They are closed Monday but available for private parties and events. For more information, visit hopvinebrewingcompany.com or call 630-229-6030.
Jane Donahue is a freelance reporter for the Beacon-News.