Forbidden Root

Nestled on West Chicago Avenue in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood, Forbidden Root is the city’s first botanic brewery and restaurant, a place where craft beer meets farm‑to‑table cuisine. The space is bathed in greenery, with living walls, reclaimed wood tables, and communal seating that invites conversation. Head chef Robert Finkel curates a seasonal menu that highlights locally sourced vegetables, house‑made charcuterie, and inventive dishes like the rosemary‑infused pork belly taco and the wild mushroom risotto topped with micro‑herb pesto. Their beer program is equally distinctive, featuring house‑brewed herb‑infused ales such as the Basil Saison, Lavender Pale Ale, and a rotating “Botanic Series” that experiments with foraged ingredients from the nearby Chicago Botanic Garden. Open daily from 4 pm to 10 pm (extended to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays), the venue offers a moderate $$ price range, making it ideal for after‑work drinks or a relaxed dinner. The interior blends industrial chic with botanical accents, while an outdoor patio provides a view of the bustling W Chicago Ave corridor and easy access to nearby landmarks like the Ukrainian Village murals and the historic Wicker Park. Whether you’re a local beer enthusiast or a visitor seeking a unique Chicago dining experience, Forbidden Root delivers a memorable blend of flavor, atmosphere, and community spirit.