Self-Checkout Would Be an Upgrade -- The Staff Sure Aren't... Yeah, I get it -- a lot of us who shop here probably look like giant losers (myself included). But that doesn't excuse the staff from acting like they're being punished for showing up. Most of the cashiers are rude, dismissive, or completely uninterested -- it's almost impressive how consistently unpleasant they can be, no matter how polite you are. Honestly, Binny's could save a ton of money by just installing self-checkout machines. At least the robots wouldn't roll their eyes or sigh like you've asked them to file your taxes. Then there's the armed security -- they look more like they just finished doing a robbery than preventing one. I don't even feel safer with them around; it's more like shopping inside a crime documentary. And don't get me started on the parking lot -- it's a total nightmare. At night it feels sketchy, like the kind of place you might get stuck up just walking to your car. Maybe Binny's should focus on improving that experience too, because honestly, it's not that hard to just drive to the South Loop location instead. I really miss the old Binny's that used to be on the corner of 53rd in the Hyde Park Bank building -- that place was intimate, welcoming, and the staff were actually helpful and friendly. This new location, on the other hand, constantly gives you that feeling like someone's watching over your shoulder, waiting for you to steal something. I'm sure theft happens here -- but maybe take a cue from Target. They handle it quietly and strategically, without making every paying customer feel like a suspect. This location could be a great asset to the neighborhood, but right now it's just a stressful stop. Be safe. read more

When the first shopper was unable to find my products;The good is that the 1st shopper rescheduled my delivery it appears with the hope the next shopper my find my products. The bad was that the Instacart app stated there was plenty of the product in stock. Apparently it was not because my request was cancelled. read more

I was glad this location moved to where I don't have to take a bus or a 15 min walk to get to. I will say I wish there was a little more attention paid when I came in. I saw the shelf was out of a 'nice' wine I was browsing for a gift, and I looked near the back where 2 staff members were working at a machine, neither looked up or asked me what I needed/wanted (I was kind of tired so I didn't assert myself either). The cashier was ok but in conversation and didn't notice I dropped my hat in front of the register. I came back to get it, still no comment. I didn't even KNOW these stores had tasting rooms! I see people sampling products on displays, which is cool, but a tasting room (or lack of) says a lot about how a store sees its community. The 53rd street store was tiny so of course it wasn't an option, but a sprawling space as this should at least TRY to look inviting, nothwithstanding Amanda D.'s 'Southside doesn't respect anything' comment. There's a lot wrong with the South side but to say that we would abuse it is presumptive and dismissive. Too many businesses are opting for half-assing this area, and some of us are reaching a point where we would rather a business CLOSE or don't bother opening if you're going to say 'this is too too good for you'. read more

Binny's Beverage Depot - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Binny's is back open for all of your beverage needs! Today I ventured in for a online pickup order that was ready in less than 4 hours. The online purchase process was painless. They also offer shipping and curbside pickup. I had to stop the customer service desk to pickup my order. One of the guys at the desk was not sure how to process my order so I had to wait for the manage. Please note, face mask was required for all those entering the building! They also have sani spray for the shopping carts and baskets! I am happy this location has reopened. read more

The selection was okay and shelves were fairly stocked. However (some) staff was unfriendly and straight up rude. I asked a staff member who was stocking a nearby shelf if they have a specific bottle. She ignored me for a second then slowly gave me a side eye as if it's not her job to help customers. I showed her a photo of the wine I was looking for, and she told me they don't carry that brand (they do... There were some others from the brand on the shelf, I just couldn't find the year I was looking for.) Very unhelpful, could've been 1,000x more polite. read more

Today I checking out and a very vice woman named Robyn helped me. Very polite and professional!!!!!

I love Binny's they are the place to go when you need to restock or buy a limited edition liquor product. They had my fave Crown Royal Peach. I left a happy girl . The staff was very helpful. read more

Lots of liquor, but they seem to never have the liquors I'm looking for. Place is clean & the staff is friendly.

I'm not exactly sure what all the negative reviews are about. There is no tasting room; it's the Southside, where people don't respect anything and would completely take advantage of a tasting room. Can you imagine?! Ugh. I was definitely impressed with the selection. It's a lot more organized and much cleaner than Kimbark. Lots of accessory items like margarita salt and a variety of mixers. They even have ice (it's at the front of the store, which I didn't notice until we were leaving - so plan ahead!). Check out process was easy. The cashier was polite and we shared witty banter. read more

Damien the assistant manager is rude and unhelpful. The store is never fully stocked. Most of the staff is has attitudes. I visited yesterday there was tons of staff but the shelves in the vodka area were mostly empty. The assistant manager Damien was talking to other employees and security but not helping customers or filling the store up. read more

This location is always super clean and organized. The security guard at the door is very friendly and greets everyone who comes in. The staff is pretty responsive and helpful if you're looking for something you don't see. I'm glad they moved this store to a better location in the same neighborhood. It's much more accessible with the parking lot. read more

The prices are great (very frequent sales) and the staff is so friendly and helpful. The beer selection is great, and the cost/quality is the best in Hyde Park. The hours are not ideal for a liquor store (they close by 7 everyday), but really that just keeps it classy. It's always crowded inside, but for good reason. read more

This Binny's has a decent selection, but I wish the customer service was better. I've been here three times, each time a different cashier, and all have had bad attitudes. It's like they get mad at you for even coming to the register. Would love if the management of this location trained their staff better. Like several have commented below, it would be nice to have a tasting room. Not surprising for a store on the south side though. This city constantly skimps out when it comes to predominantly African American neighborhoods. read more

I'm split between a 4 and a 5. This location is convenient, but it's small. Wine selection is good. Greg is amazing. Some of the rest of the staff is indifferent. read more

My sister and I have been coming to this Binny's location in Hyde Park for the last couple of months and are never disappointed. If it's there, it's there, if not then either inventory is not in yet or it's at another store. The staff are very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The only downside I have a problem with are the way most of the customers treat the cashiers and even a few managers. I have dealt with my fair share of rude customers but at Binny's it's ridiculous on what I have seen. A lot of customers have issues showing their ID when it is a no brainer that they are in a liquor store and if they look like they are under 30, they are going to get carded whether they are buying liquor or not. Especially with regular customers, as if they wamt special treatment or something. The signs are all over the store, it's store policy, what do they expect? I have also seen how they yell, cuss, make false accusations and want to pick a fight with a worker because they are not getting their way or don't want to admit they are wrong. It's sad when I see the cashiers just stand there and take abuse. Of course, like many corporations, I doubt Binny's even care how their workers are treated as long as they are getting that almighty dollar. I get it's a business, but remember, the workers are the ones you need the most. Respect goes both ways, and speaking as a customer who actually acts like a 28 year old adult, I strongly suggest stop kissing these customers asses with attitude and obvious drinking problems and stand up more for your employees, do right by them. It's NOT hard. read more

Not the friendliest Binny's in the chain. They treat everyone as if they are a potential shop lifter and sometimes the cashiers can be down right rude! I prefer the Binny's in Mokena. They always greet you with a smile and ask you if you need help out to your car. The champagne tasting here was disorganized and just a mess! read more

While this location has always held the alcoholic beverage which I seek, they also offer a secret item which they do not advertise: a cell phone stealing business. On my way into the store to pickup some alcohol, my cell phone slipped from my reach without my knowledge. I noticed once I had gotten back into my car. It was still connected to the bluetooth, so it was close and likely in the store. I immediately returned, and several employees (who were gathered near the front of the store, congregating, ignored me). I retraced my steps only to not discover my phone. I asked two employees, who both seemed to be confused by my question. Again, I knew it was close because it was still connected to my car's bluetooth. Interestingly enough (after a 20 minute search in/out of the store, where no one acknowledged my presence or asked if I needed help), my phone was turned off. However, it remained on and connected to my car bluetooth for the twenty minutes prior. This lets me know that, not only was the offender nearby (in the store, watching me search for my phone, and getting paid while doing it), but their intentions were more sinister as they turned the phone off. I imagine that an employee who commits crimes of opportunity, such as stealing an iPhone because one finds it, also has other questionable morals. So, while I will work my own tireless hours to earn enough money and purchase another phone - Binny's will continue to have a thief on their hands. Furthermore, this experience highlights how unhelpful the Binny's employees are. I encountered at least 5-6 of them and not one of them proactively asked if I needed help, while all of them watched me searching. read more

Good customer service and friendly staff! You cant go wrong with Binny's. I came in here for the 4 pck shot bottles of CROWN!!! I Always carry shot bottles in my pocket if im going to out. I wish they had the crown in a 4 pack but Jack will do!! read more

One word describes this place: Claustrophobic. I'm in Hyde Park a lot, so this Binny's is in a great, convenient location. Alas, it is far too small and far too densely packed with booze, employees and people. Hard for me to concentrate on making a good selection when everyone is squeezing past one another and/or trying not to knock down bottles or trip over boxes in the middle of the floor. On the (sur)plus side, there's a great selection here and they have very good sale specials. On another note, I can't understand the usefulness of a wine shop that closes at 7 p.m... read more

You can find ANYTHING at Binnys!..Just not at this location. To be specific-You can not find the Japanese whiskeys here for some reason. AND...a $30 bottle sells for $80 here. -1 star The positive things are that the store pretty much is a wine enthusiasts playground. There are thousands of options here. They have tastings on the weekends and I just happened to have some Rose sample that were spectacular. I go here every time I'm at home and always find something unique and tasty. It's like a modern day treasure hunt for alcohol. If you like unique, high end, cheap affordable, hard to source items this is your places. Nestled in the Hyde Park neighborhood it's conveniently located and easy to get to by multiple forms of transportation. Staff are extremely knowledgeable and friendly and are always around to answer questions. I love this place! Not so humbly submitted King Michael C. read more

I love Binny's this one is a little smaller, but it still catered to my need. I am a repeat customer

I've been increasingly dissatisfied with Binny's. Like the cougar passing for 25, they have a great selection and often cheap prices. Unfortunately, 1 out of 5 beers I've had recently has been skunked. I've decided to stop going after obnoxious and condescending treatment from an employee, as well as the aforementioned problems of beer quality. Thankfully, Binny's isn't the only liquor store in Hyde Park, and for hard to find items the bounty of the South Loop is a but a bus ride away! read more

I really like this Binny's, and I think it's the best liquor store in Hyde Park. The prices here are usually on par with, but sometimes cheaper than Kimbark down the street. For example, once I got a bottle of St. Germain at Binny's for $35 whereas Kimbark was selling it for $42. Very good, solid and diverse selection of both 6-packs and individual beer bottles. I am not sure why people are complaining about it being claustrophobic/crowded and encountering 'rude' service... I've definitely never encountered either here. The man with glasses (maybe a manager?) who often walks around the store helping customers is excellent at giving advice, and steering you to a product that works for you. I was recently in the store looking for some inexpensive bourbon for a cocktail, and he pointed me to a product that was not only the cheapest bourbon at the moment (on sale for $11/bottle), but in his opinion, also a very good fit for the particular drink I was describing. That is good service! The only thing I wish could be changed is their hours of operation. Almost every time I want to buy alcohol, it's past the time they close. read more

I have been in Hyde Park for years and enjoyed Binny's selection and Gregory's advice on wines for a long time, but I wanted to highlight a particularly gracious act recently. My parents were coming into town, and I wanted to get them something nice and in budget. Gregory made several suggestions that sounded right down their alley--two especially so, which I nabbed. Later that day, I had them in the fridge and a shelf collapsed. Calamity ensued, with both bottles shattering into tiny pieces and even one of my kids cutting a foot. Determined not to let the devil drink my wine, I resolved to return the next day and get the bottles I thought my parents would like. The first I found easily; but there was an ominous hole where the second bottle had been the day before. I inquired for Gregory, but he was on lunch break. The staff came to help me look, and confirmed that they were totally out--I'd have to take another hour round trip to get the bottle. (This was, naturally, the one I had thought would be the highlight of the night.) I felt defeated until a staff member returned from a backroom with a bottle--the one Gregory had saved for himself before they sold out! I was touched by his generosity. Needless to say, the wine was enjoyed by all, and all the more so for the staff's persistence and Gregory's graciousness. We were all very grateful! (And the wine was plenty good too!) read more

Binny's Beverage Depot... First, can I just say, Binny's in Hyde Park is small because it's an express, also explains why it closes at 7 and 6 on Sundays. I went in here today, and it had my Moscato that I love so much, so I'm happy. I don't know why, but I was under the impression that this place was going to be cheap, not the case. Even though I did only spend $27 on two bottles of Moscato. If you're an alki, go for it. It's small, but as mentioned above, it is an express. I love that Hyde Park has great items for us. read more

Binny's makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. They've got a good staff, they have a discount program, and best of all, they've got Templeton Rye. Mmm...my only knocks on the place are the lack of parking and that this particular location isn't that large. read more

This Binnys is an express. Very quaint and the staff always takes good care of me especially Towanna. It might not carry everything the big stores have, but if you are knowledgeable there are ALWAYS gems to be had here. I've even come up on some fantastic rare and special releases. They don't have a walk in humidor but they do have a couple of tower humidors which are kept well stocked. It works for me! read more

For local convenience only - parking is brutal - minimal selection - express/down market wines. No matter the inquiry, seasoned staff inevitably steers to sales selection at the door. Recommended rot gut, when $ stated as no object. Looking for a dry Cabernet? There's always a sales item enthusiastically recommended for $10 that's not what you asked for. read more

I love this store for convenience and because I can count on Gregory for spot on recommendations. There is also another really cool chick who has great recommendations (I think she's got dreadlocks.) I wish I knew her name because she's really very helpful. Good selection and great customer service. I so prefer them over their neighbor to the west! read more

In my experience the online order pickup process was inefficient and frustrating. After notification by email of order ready for pick up, upon my arrival it took well over 15 minutes for a staff member to appear to complete my transaction. in the mean time, numerous customers were in and out with direct purchases while I waited. Worse was cashier Kayerika (forgive me if I incorrectly spelled the name, but you can imagine with a name like that no good service was coming - and, yes, I said it). She was rude. Made no offer of apology for her delay, and simply presented herself as if I had ruined her day by being an online customer. Problem is, if online ordering is upsetting to those in the store responsible for making it work, and it is more cumbersome than simply walking in the store to make a purchase, don't offer it. read more

Nice to have a Binny's closer to home with parking. Very organized with knowledgeable staff.

I was waiting for this Binny's to open at this location. I had high hopes for this Binny's. However, my hopes were quickly dashed the moment I walked into this place. The Binny's locations that I have been to are known not only for their quality, but their quantity, and this Binny's location does not I've up to the quantity aspect at all. They had all of the name brand stuff, as well as the stuff that only the true spirit connoisseurs know, but they only had a few bottles of anything. For instance, they only had a TOTAL of 3 mezcal bottles in the entire store. That's unacceptable. For a place that's brand new, they should've been swimming in mezcal, yet they were not. Also, how do you NOT have a tasting room? The downtown Binny's, as well as the Lincoln Park Binny's, have tasting rooms. The point of a tasting room is that it gives you a chance to not only try out certain spirits, but you can also try those spirits out within a cocktail. In addition, the point of a tasting room is that you can now have distillers come in and offer tastings to the customers. This Binny's location completely dropped the ball when it comes to having a tasting room. Don't bother going to this Binny's. This Binny's is nothing more than the typical, neighborhood liquor store with the Binny's name attached to it. If you've been to Kenwood liquors on 88th and Stony Island Avenue, then you've been to this Binny's. Trust me on that. read more

I'm not too much of a wine dude so I can't really comment on their wine selection. But they have a great beer aisle, with great selections anywhere from 12-packs of Corona on sale to some great high-end stuff: Trappists, St. Bernardus abt 12, some good French ciders, pretty much everything Unibroue has, etc. There are also a ton of imported six packs from not just the Americas and Europe, but Asia and Africa as well, and a good representation of microbreweries. You can find good variety in any style... ales, lagers, wheats, porters, barley wines, etc. The prices are competitive (probably slightly lower) with other liquor shops in the area. The selection of spirits is above average, though they're not big on selling by the handle (college parties are almost always supplied by kimbark liquors down the street). The staff here are also helpful and knowledgeable. For what would normally be a 4-star review, I deduct one star for closing early (7 pm) and having a stupid carding policy (friends of mine who are under 21 aren't even allowed in the store). read more

I've never had an issue at this Binny's. Cashiers arent super friendly, but they aren't rude either. I don't need them to drop down and get their eagle on...just take my money and get me out of there fast. I'm giving them four stars because according to other reviews...some Binny's have a tasting room and this one doesn't. read more

Awesome new location! Super glad they moved into a space with parking. Major plus. Manager was helpful in deciding on a tequila. Good to have such a large selection in the neighborhood! read more

I really like this location but the customer service at the counters really need help. They have no personality and are not friendly at all. I even told one the cashiers she was not at all she replied I spoke back but I need to move my line. I then said well why can't you do both. Again love the new location but the overall customer experience needs some work. read more

I enjoy this location! They are really friendly with great customer service. Sometimes I'm in a hurry and can seem rude but they are always patient and courteous with me. They understand what be going on! Lol. I'm trying to head there today before an event! Lol read more

The best liquor store in Hyde park. Great selection of wines, they carry my favorite Sancerre. Staff is very helpful. They even have a great rewards program. read more

They have frequent sales with serious discounts on good stuff. These sometimes sell out quickly because the more attentive customers are paying too much attention and get there on the first day and descend like a herd of locusts, so that those of us who merely swan in on the weekends are out of luck. The friendly and knowledgeable staff and the omniscience of Gregory the wine guru make up for the fact that they always have slightly more stock than they can comfortably accommodate when there are a lot of customers, so it's a bit of a slow-motion obstacle course. The occasional tastings draw an interesting crowd of loyalists and new people. The combination of deep knowledge and complete lack of pretense is refreshing. read more

Yea, Binny's is awesome but I have the same gripe as everyone else. I mean I don't mind the small location really, as long as they have the stock, I'm fine. But why close at 7pm. Seriously, I really think the amount of revenue in which they'd make if they were open till say 9 would offset any faulty logic they have for closing so early. I got there one time at 7:00 on the dot and got refused, that's lame in my opinion dude. It is going the extra mile in customer service but come on man, that goes a long way, especially since we have tools like yelp so consumers can say how lame you really are. I just think its sad that I can go get some whole vitamins down the street at GNC while the liquor store is closed. read more