super reasonable prices and love the outdoor seating! i wish they served some apps on days they don't have a food truck. can't wait to come back to experience the live music! read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

A nice casual spot to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, this spot is enormous with tons of parking, a super spacious interior, and plenty of outdoor seating. The staff is friendly and decor is nicer than average as well -- with a large selection of drink at fairly reasonable prices. The only minor downsides are that the bar is basically in front of the door, so when there's a line to get a drink, this does disrupt traffic flow a bit. For the size of the facility, the amount of restroom facilities seems a bit low, but this wasn't an issue during my visit despite the entire main dining room being full. Finally, the setup of the main dining room can get quite noisy when full, so patrons may need to move to the bar area or outside to easily have a conversation. This is probably due to the setup of the space, without any way to really disperse or absorb sound. Also be aware that there is no food served here, but they often have food trucks stopping by. There are a good number of nearby options to pickup from within 3 to 8 minutes though. Overall, solid spot to visit for a drink and hangout with friends. They also have events like live music, bingo, and trivia on a regular basis as well. read more

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It's been great watching Tighthead grow from a small tasting room to adding outdoor space to two additional interior expansions. This is one of the better breweries around because they offer a wide selection of beers from low to higher IBUs, seasonal beers, and others inspired by locale Mundelein landmarks and history. The bartenders are always amazing. And, you can bring in or order delivery. read more

My husband and I went to Tighthead Brewing Company for a trivia night. Before going to the trivia game in the back room, we got a drink at the bar right inside the front door. All of their beers are brewed locally. I had the porter which was pretty good. The trivia game was not as fun. It went really slow and it was very hard to hear. We had to leave midway through the second round since it was on a Wednesday. read more

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Well rounded brewery. I love the space and the pizzas are truly good for a brewery. Beer is always good. Prices are reasonable read more

After wrapping up at another local brewery, a group of friends and I opted to walk over to Tighthead for one last beer. This is an "order at the bar" type of place, which is pretty obvious the moment you walk in. They have some swag you can purchase by the bar, which is always fun. I told the bartender my preferred beer taste profile, and she was spot on with the beer that she surprised me with. I loved the available outdoor seating, which was full so we couldn't utilize the space, but they do have space heaters! The back room was much larger than I expected - this would definitely be a fun spot for an event. My only complaint is that the entire bar area smelled of mildew from dirty bar rags being used over and over again. Not a pleasant smell when you're trying to order from a NOT-a-hole-in-the-wall establishment. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

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The afternoon I spent here with friends was quiet and relaxing - something I feel is not the norm, in reference to other reviews talking about crowds and busyness here. I'm not surprised. Its location near a commuter rail stop is certainly a plus. Of course the beers and atmosphere are also plusses. That large back room is especially nice, and I liked how they had their beer designs on many of the tabletops. Flights are reasonably priced. My Boxcar Porter had a richness beyond many stouts I've had recently. Many thanks to the friend who organized this pub crawl for including Tighthead. read more

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I like this place it's welcoming and nice as well. Craig the bartender, made our visit memorable. He's a great conversationalist and we had a fun time talking to him about so many different things. There's plenty of seating outside on a nice day and the inside has a lot of room in the bar area and there's a back room for special events too. It was great to see the beer can label artwork hanging on the wall and all the different micro brews that they make. I can't say that it was my most favorite microbrewed beer, but it was definitely one of the top 10. No food trucks that day when we were there but well worth a re-visit on an evening when they will be there. (I'd love to sit outside and eat dinner). Unfortunately the view is a parking lot like so many micro breweries are (so that was a minus to me) but, definitely worth going back to again. Check out all the cool things on the wall like I said, it's always neat to see the label artwork in real life and the work that went into it. Don't pass up the unique beers like the sweet potato beer. Something different for sure that you can say you tried. read more

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Great brewery in a hard to find location in Mundelein. It's actually close to the Metra station. Tighthead is known for having a pretty good variety. Mostly it's about the beer here. You can also get some frozen drinks, or come for the live music and things like that. After being here a few times, I have tried a few beers. It's about $6.50 a pint. That's not bad for a craft brewery like this. A good one is the 3 Lefts. This is a Mexican lager, and there's a hint of lime and saltiness. If you don't want beer, there's also cider. There's not really much food except the chips and containers of pretzels. Finding it can be hard at first. It's certainly hidden. There's enough people who can find it apparently, because the patio gets pretty hopping for the music or whatever. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - 3 Lefts - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

Was a good time Nice music. Good beer and good friends. Was a fun time had a fun slush. Service was ok. The did not see us for a while. But that was ok. We were not in a rush read more

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I ordered a pineapple cider to drink. Absolutely delicious! Service was good. It had an industrial vibe. read more

This place was packed! Outside seating was filled, and the inside was getting crowded. They also had a cover band playing in the back seating area. My girlfriend and I ordered a couple of beers at the bar and then decided to listen to the cover band. They took Venmo for song requests. Unfortunately, most of their music was country. Most of their beers are IPAs and ales. No sours here #sad. They dont serve food here, but they did have 1 food truck in the parking lot. According to their website, they have different food trucks each day. I thought their Five Guys beer was good. It was a honey ale. Overall, the place was inviting, and the staff was friendly. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - a glass of beer - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

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Showed up for "pack and a pint" and payed for two people. Charged $26 + tip for two beers and $8 worth of packs. Not worth $9 a pint. Environment was nice and service was friendly. Far too expensive for drinks. read more

I love coming here and have been coming here for years. I used to come every Wednesday nights for trivia, which was so fun. Since I have moved away from the area, I try to come here when I am visiting my family. The beers are so good! My favorites are the Scarlett Fire, Chilly Water, Boxcar Porter, We be Yammin, and Oktoberfest. Last night, I had the Scarlett Fire and it tastes just how I remembered it to taste. Love the red/amber color! read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Scarlett Fire - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

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Just handily the best brewery in the NW suburbs. Go here, high-five Travis, you'll have a great time. The Mexican Lager (3 Lefts) is to die for. Really though, it's the homey environs and friendly folks who keep me coming back. The great beer is just a bonus. read more

Awesome place with great service and great beer. I just don't understand why management (or parents) allow very young children to run around the taproom like it is their personal playground. On Wednesday 11/26/2025, the taproom sounded like a daycare center. Crying babies, and several 3- or 4-year-olds running around the taproom screaming in a pitch that has yet to be identified by musical notation while Mom and Dad drink beer. In one case, the father was actually chasing the kid around the taproom, tossing the kid in the air and encouraging him to scream. This behavior is for Chuck E Cheese's, not a taproom where the majority of customers are older (and paying) adults trying to have a conversation or relax after work. My personal opinion is that children do not belong in bars, but perhaps that view is outdated. Is there not some middle ground where children can still visit with their parents but must remain seated at the table with Mom and Dad? Or perhaps be required to sit in a different part of the establishment? read more

Positives Plenty of parking Lots of beer choices are available in 16 Oz or 10 Oz pours Lots of indoor and outdoor seating The staff was very friendly Negatives For as large as this place is there were small bathrooms read more

I can't believe I haven't written a review for this place yet! In our area, you have a lot of brewery options, but Tighthead is a consistent favorite of mine. There are tons of seating options, so when you first walk in and only see a small space in the taproom, don't give up. They have a whole other room, that I'm guessing turns into another taproom for either super busy days or events. There's also outdoor seating in a tent, but not sure if that carries on through the winter. There's a wide selection of different types of beers, we tend to hop around the menu to try anything new, but they do maintain their staples. Tighthead doesn't have food, but they are consistently bringing in food trucks, and there are tons of local places that you can order from and bring in. From the posters around the brewery, it looks like they have tons of events all the time, so looking forward to coming back for those. read more

I LOVE THIS PLACE!! great great vibes and great atmosphere and the owners are super nice. Great to sit on the patio and listen to live music

This brewery has good service and great beer! There is a lot space on the inside and nice outdoor seating when the weather cooperates.

This spot has a great outdoor seating patio and grass area. Tons of options on tap and a few slushies options that they switch out. Wish they had a sour but they have great cider options if you're not big into beer. They had food vendor and live music setting up when I visited. Got pretty busy but had good service. Had a small mishap with the tab but was easily and quickly fixed by the kind bartender. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Outside drinking - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

I recently went to Tighthead with my brother. We were meeting up for dinner, but wanted to stop here first! We were so pleasantly surprised! It is such an awesome space on the outside and in! There is a plethora of outdoor seating (covered with heat lamps and uncovered). Inside, you are greeted with the bar. Everyone was so friendly and helped answer all of our questions. We each ordered a flight so we could try a few of their brews. One beer in particular that I loved was "We be Yammin'" it's an American Amber Ale made with Sweet Potato. I would highly recommend trying that! We also loved that on the weekends they have food trucks come. We can't wait to go back and try some more! read more

Relaxed atmosphere...quality brews...welcoming staff! BOOM!! They don't sell food but you are allowed to bring outdoor food inside which makes this brewery an affordable hit. Scarlet Fire is my personal fav!! Been enjoying Tighthead since they first open and enjoying seeing them grow! CHEERS!! read more

So wonderful to have a Microbrewery in Mundelein!!! We have been coming here for years and especially like their Oktoberfest. I am partial to their Belgium style beer and others in the family lean to porters and of course the incomparable 'Chilly Waters'. Go, it's fun and the brews are exceptional! read more

I liked the beer flight I got (IPAs) and enjoyed the outdoor patio- busy for an odd area.

If your looking for great microbrew and local friendly appeal... this is an awesome brewery tasting room. It's order/bring-in so it's not gastropub, but the food trucks elevate it beyond just an awesome tasting room. I really appreciate the team working here making and serving, some of the best beers (unless you like taste-light beers) on this planet. I'm a hop snob so I'm partial to their Irie and Bears Choice, but there's always a diverse selection beyond my core. Perennial pourers are always here Erica, Travis, Stephanie, and even Shane providing great beers and camaraderie. If you don't like beer, not your place; unless you're looking for beer drinkers and friends. Skol! read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - IL Phase 3 TH extended the tasting room outside. - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

I absolutely love the beer and I love the venue. However there were at least 15 children there on a Friday night. It is a brewery and bar. There were so many children there that I thought a moms group had rented out the big room and I was in the wrong place. I'm a teacher.Not really interested in being around small children on a Friday night... in a bar. read more

For the best selection of Beers and a comfortable place to sit (in or out) go to Tighthead Brewery. On many days you have a great Food Truck waiting outside. Bar personnel KNOWS Beer! read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

Tighthead is legit. Sampled a good cross section of their offerings and everything I had tasted spot on and then some. Bears choice was a fine pale ale worth mention, as was their Irie West Coast style IPA, and Scarlet Fire, which I think they have won an award for. Great to see the craft beer movement is alive and well in the the Northern Chicago 'burbs. read more

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It took me about two years of living in the area to make my way over to Tighthead Brewing Company. On arrival I was surprised how busy they were in the mid-afternoon, by 5 PM, they cleared out however. The beers weren't bad, but not super great either - maybe its because I'm not a huge beer fan. I did like that they small sizes to try many different types. It would be better if they had a food menu as well. It sounds like they might eventually get a kitchen, but just not right now. It's also is a pretty industrial park type area -- the area plan is to have more of a downtown, it just hasn't happened yet! The staff is friendly. Overall, not a bad visit! read more

With so many of these craft beer breweries, what really makes the experience for me is the staff. There was just one guy working when we went on a Sunday afternoon. He was so nice and well informed, I overheard him telling another customer he's pretty sure he has the best job in the world (aka he was HAPPY to be at work and enjoying it), plus was very personable. During my few hours at Tighthead, it was clear I wasn't the only one who felt this way as people mulled in and out, everyone knew him by name! They greeted him, said bye to him, chatted it up. Tighthead has a real hometown type feeling and the bartender truly adds to that. Pro-Tip: Tighthead is right off of the Metra stop! I had no idea so next time I go up to Mundelein, I will definitely be training it there. However, it doesn't seem the train runs weekends or Friday nights. Wah wah. When I first walked got to Tighthead, I walked enviously past the four packed tables outside. They were enjoying their beers in the amazing weather with a nice breeze on a Sunday afternoon. That's pretty much my dream day. When I walked inside, I was a bit worried I wasn't going to like it there. Even though it was pretty full, it was nearly silent. People were sitting around drinking their beers but there wasn't any noise of people having fun and chatting it up. It weirded me out but of course I can't hold that against the brewery, just a weird client base that afternoon I guess. Outside of that eerie first impression, I really liked the atmosphere of Tighthead. They were playing older 60s music and if a place plays The Beatles, well they're alright by me. In retrospect, it was good we had seats inside at first as we got to chat with that awesome bartender and just generally see the inner workings of things. Don't worry though, I eventually got my super chill outdoor seat to round off my afternoon. I'm proud [or embarrassed] to say I tried every beer they had on tap that day. They numbered 15. Yes, I had 15 beers in one day. Now mind you, they were taster portions...I ended up sharing some with my buddy...but it was like my own personal beer festival! I had the... ~ready ~set ~go Boxcar Porter, Coffee Boxcar Porter on Cask (and significantly better), Go-Go Wit, Powerful Pils, Irie IPA, Chilly Water, Scarlet Fire, Tube, Mechanics Grove Maibock, Comfortably Blonde Ale, ReplicAle, Paint It Brown and then my favorite's of the days ~ Bear's Choice (a citrus IPA). Old Dog Kaya (2014 barrel aged barley wine) and Awesome Sauce (Imperial Brown Ale aged in 2nd use Woodford Reserve Barrels). Overall, I found most of the beers okay with those three significant standouts. They offer a flight of their 7 signature beers (Irie, Go-Go, Powerful, Boxcar, Blonde, Scarlet Red, & Chilly Water) for $14. But if they don't have your favorite in the flight, don't fret. They offer all beers in 5 oz tasting sizes for $1.50-3.50 depending on which it is. My friend also loved that they offered half pints! I think that's a great option for those who want something a bit in-between a pint & a taster. What's more, they don't just offer growlers for filling...but they offers squealers!!! Squealers are half a growler size, super cute and I had to get a squealer of the Old Dog Kaya for the road. More Pro-Tips ~ +Never had a Tighthead brew? Start with their signature flight & work your way from there. +When driving here for the first time, if you think you're in the wrong place, you're in the right place. It's in the way back of an industrial area. +If you get a growler or squealer, be sure to get their growler card to work towards a free one! +Wednesday is trivia night at Tighthead! +Monday & Tuesdays $1 off each pint! +Many Fridays have food trucks on site, check their calendar! +Bring Your Own Food! Or pick a place to deliver from their binder of local options. +They have an awesome shirt I bought that said "Support Your Local Brewer" but under the word Brewer was the word Hooker scratched out. YESH. +Sarah S. is fo' sho' coming back so you might just catch her when you go. read more

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Travis is the man. Best knowledge of beer of all time. Excellent service and the beers were amazing!

Bartenders are great!!! The beer is excellent. Newly renovated inside. Great place to have a private party

Always a favorite local craft brewery in the Chicagoland area! The Boxcar Porter is always a good one. The last time I was in I also tried the Chocolate Malty Balls (a Russian imperial stout), which was excellent. They have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. There are food trucks often on the weekend. We've also ordered food to be delivered there! read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - a glass of beer on a barrel - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

This place is awesome. The bartenders are inviting and funny, it feels like you've stepped into a community that cares about everyone within it. The people that visit (and their dogs) are all great. Awesome vibes and really tasty beers. Must go! read more

Good beer but unfortunately the bartender has a bad demeanor. Not a place I'd race back to. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Bar - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

Had a great experience stopping in while we were in the area from out of town. Beer was amazing and even had delicious hard seltzer. Food truck on a Friday night was a bonus. Lots of seating indoors and out. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - a glass of beer on a table - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois

The beer and staff here are absolutely top notch. They remember locals and take care of out of towners. Beer is well-priced and they bring in food often and/or have food trucks. You may bring your own food as well! Their Octoberfest is awesome! read more

Growing up in Mundelein we had nothing this cool! So glad to see a wonderful place to get a well-crafted beer along with good company and environment. It seems like everyone meets here and uses it as a true community hub. They allow food to be brought in, which is fantastic. I ordered to here twice (2 different visits...) and my friends and I were able to enjoy our time here longer. They have a table shuffle board which makes for a good time! Both IPAs I tried were fantastic. They have a wide selection with some interesting experimental beers. Highly recommend. read more

Oh calm down. Everyone acts like this place is magical just because it's a little hidden. Truth is, everyone is gaga over this brewery only because it's a local place and serves as a hangout. First of all, there's no food. You may find some candy on the bar counter but that's about it. The choice of beers are alright. I only found one or two that are stellar. Their infamous barley wine was so bad I couldn't finish it. If you want to grab a beer and sit around with some friends while pretending you're in a hipster dive place, come here I suppose. read more

Tighthead Brewing Company - Breweries Near Me - Mundelein, Illinois