The best bars & nightlife in Kane County

47 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 47 places · showing the latest additions first

Sports-focused, family-friendly pub with an American menu of salads, sandwiches, pizza & tacos.

12220 Princeton Dr (Huntley)

“Sports-focused, family-friendly pub with an American menu of salads, sandwiches, pizza & tacos.”

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JT's Tavern & Tap brings a friendly, no-frills bar-and-grill vibe to Batavia with char-grilled burgers, wings, pizza and more, plus a full…

113 S Batavia Ave (Batavia)

“JT's Tavern & Tap brings a friendly, no-frills bar-and-grill vibe to Batavia with char-grilled burgers, wings, pizza and more, plus a full bar. An easy weeknight move when you want solid comfort food without crossing town.”

From the Aurora newsletter, September 15, 2026

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Sturdy Shelter Brewing pours 18 taps of highly crafted classics, seasonal favorites, and newly created expressions in a cozy taproom along…

10 Shumway Ave (Batavia)

“Sturdy Shelter Brewing pours 18 taps of highly crafted classics, seasonal favorites, and newly created expressions in a cozy taproom along the Fox River, perfect for meeting up after work. Bring takeout, catch free and ticketed community events, sample a flight, then linger until you find a new go-to.”

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Barrel + Rye

Nightlife

Popular choice with a hip vibe for specialty whiskey cocktails, charcuterie & American bistro fare.

477 S 3rd St Ste 184 (Geneva)

“Popular choice with a hip vibe for specialty whiskey cocktails, charcuterie & American bistro fare.”

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Down-to-earth joint offering American & Greek fare such as gyros, burgers, wings & spanakopita.

120 Butterfield Rd (North Aurora)

“Down-to-earth joint offering American & Greek fare such as gyros, burgers, wings & spanakopita.”

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Gammon Coach House nails the vibe locals want, with classic smash burgers, fresh jumbo wings, and a thoughtfully curated craft beer list…

3 &, 7 S Batavia Ave (Batavia)

“Gammon Coach House nails the vibe locals want, with classic smash burgers, fresh jumbo wings, and a thoughtfully curated craft beer list served inside an 1886 carriage house. It feels like a true neighborhood living room where you linger, catch up, maybe celebrate something small, then order another round.”

From the Aurora newsletter, October 6, 2026

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When the beer fridge needs a quick glow-up, Energy City Brewing makes it easy with online order pickup from their Batavia brewery, so you…

917 1st St (Batavia)

“When the beer fridge needs a quick glow-up, Energy City Brewing makes it easy with online order pickup from their Batavia brewery, so you can keep fresh local beer ready for porch hangs. Simple, fast, and reliably tasty... basically the neighbor you actually want to see.”

From the Aurora newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Geneva Winery & Tasting Room pours Illinois-made wines with flights that swing from crisp dry whites to sweet fruit favorites, plus…

5 N River St (Batavia)

“Geneva Winery & Tasting Room pours Illinois-made wines with flights that swing from crisp dry whites to sweet fruit favorites, plus easygoing cheese pairings. A low-key, close-to-home spot for lingering with friends and discovering something new without crossing half the suburbs.”

From the Aurora newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Bamboozels

Nightlife

Bamboozels is a local bar and diner turning out unique from scratch plates and crafted cocktails, plus daily lunch specials, a kids menu,…

101 W Main St (West Dundee)

“Bamboozels is a local bar and diner turning out unique from scratch plates and crafted cocktails, plus daily lunch specials, a kids menu, and a Spanish menu if your crew rolls deep. They’ll even host your next shindig, so you can focus on fun while they handle the tasty.”

From the Elgin newsletter, September 5, 2026

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From new, pre-owned, and antique tables to cues, dart boards, and Presidential Billiards furniture, M.C. Billiards keeps the fun local.…

2212 E Algonquin Rd (Algonquin)

“C. Billiards keeps the fun local. Family owned for 10+ years, their pros handle moves, re-felts, re-levels, and set-ups so your table actually plays true.”

From the Carpentersville newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Emmett's Brewing Company keeps it neighborly with award-winning, small-batch beers brewed on site and American comfort plates that actually…

128 W Main St (West Dundee)

“Emmett's Brewing Company keeps it neighborly with award-winning, small-batch beers brewed on site and American comfort plates that actually taste like someone thought about them first, from steaks and seafood to pastas. Ideal for an Elgin night when you want a pint that pairs with real dinner.”

From the Elgin newsletter, October 4, 2026

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Fox Social

Nightlife

Fox Social takes the old-school, hole-in-the-wall vibe St. Charles folks love and gives it a modern glow up, right by the Fox River. Slide…

104 E Main St (St. Charles)

“Fox Social takes the old-school, hole-in-the-wall vibe St. Charles folks love and gives it a modern glow up, right by the Fox River. Slide in for craft cocktails, easy conversation, and a low-key spot to disappear for a bit...”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Rookies Sports Bar & Grill (St. Charles) is the local hangout for wall-to-wall games, famous wings, tavern-style pizza, burgers, ribs, and…

1545 W Main St (St. Charles)

“Rookies Sports Bar & Grill (St. Charles) is the local hangout for wall-to-wall games, famous wings, tavern-style pizza, burgers, ribs, and ice-cold drinks with daily specials. Grab the crew for bingo, trivia, karaoke, or a UFC night, or chill on the patio while the NFL and NBA action takes over.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 30, 2026

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The Lewis

Nightlife

The Lewis pairs a cozy 70s groove with creative cocktails, whisky and wine, the kind where bartenders dial in a drink to match your mood.…

106 E Main St (St. Charles)

“The Lewis pairs a cozy 70s groove with creative cocktails, whisky and wine, the kind where bartenders dial in a drink to match your mood. Perfect for a low-key night in downtown St. Charles or a private-room hang when the group chat aligns.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, October 2, 2026

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Rosie O'Hare's Public House nails the neighborhood-pub vibe in East Dundee with burgers, sandwiches, cold beer, and sports on TV, plus a…

702 Water St (East Dundee)

“Rosie O'Hare's Public House nails the neighborhood-pub vibe in East Dundee with burgers, sandwiches, cold beer, and sports on TV, plus a riverside patio facing the Fox. Go for Fish Fry Fridays, stick around for Smoked Prime Rib on Saturdays, then recover with Sunday breakfast.”

From the Elgin newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling Company - St Charles is the rare spot where a working brewery and distillery meet an intimate music venue.…

106 S Riverside Ave (St. Charles)

“Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling Company - St Charles is the rare spot where a working brewery and distillery meet an intimate music venue. Expect rotating seasonals, barrel-aged gems, house spirits, even coffee, then stick around for Pollyanna Music’s local, regional, and national acts in a cozy setting.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 22, 2026

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Stockholm's Restaurant & Brewery is the cozy Geneva spot locals claim as their own, pouring unfiltered, naturally conditioned beers brewed…

306 W State St (Geneva)

“Stockholm's Restaurant & Brewery is the cozy Geneva spot locals claim as their own, pouring unfiltered, naturally conditioned beers brewed right in the front window and serving from-scratch, upscale comfort food with seasonal monthly specials.”

From the Batavia newsletter, September 10, 2026

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If you want big-game energy with a side of island mood, Bandito Barney's Beach Club delivers with a sprawling year-round beer garden, five…

10 N River St (East Dundee)

“If you want big-game energy with a side of island mood, Bandito Barney's Beach Club delivers with a sprawling year-round beer garden, five bars, live music in the warmer months, and those signature turquoise cups. Solid American grub, huge beer list, easy hang for locals.”

From the Carpentersville newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Riverside Pizza & Pub - St. Charles keeps locals happy with creative pies, crisp drafts, and cocktails that pair way too well with another…

102 E Main St (St. Charles)

“Riverside Pizza & Pub - St. Charles keeps locals happy with creative pies, crisp drafts, and cocktails that pair way too well with another slice. Beyond pizza, the menu runs deep with wings, burgers, pasta, and salads, plus catering when you need to feed the whole crew.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, October 4, 2026

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93 Octane Brewery - St Charles keeps things fun and flavorful with a wide array of well made ales and lagers from a crew that clearly loves…

1825 Lincoln Hwy (St. Charles)

“93 Octane Brewery - St Charles keeps things fun and flavorful with a wide array of well made ales and lagers from a crew that clearly loves the craft. Chill taproom vibe, a food menu that actually holds up, and community-minded events make it an easy weeknight staple.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, October 7, 2026

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Brother Chimp Brewing keeps it classic with small-batch beers that actually taste like beer, plus ciders, wines, seltzers, and premium…

303 N 4th St Ste A (St. Charles)

“Brother Chimp Brewing keeps it classic with small-batch beers that actually taste like beer, plus ciders, wines, seltzers, and premium spirits if your crew is mixed. Try Ludwig, their 2024 World Beer Cup gold-winning Vienna lager, then stick around for live music, special releases, and easygoing neighborhood vibes.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 9, 2026

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This local beer business boasts Belgian-style brewing & an inviting tasting room.

509 Stevens St (Geneva)

“This local beer business boasts Belgian-style brewing & an inviting tasting room.”

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Rochaus Music & Spirits is the area’s premier live music venue, right over in West Dundee, and it’s perfect when you need a night that…

96 W Main St (West Dundee)

“Rochaus Music & Spirits is the area’s premier live music venue, right over in West Dundee, and it’s perfect when you need a night that actually feels like a night out. Peek the 360° tour, sign up for show alerts, or even rent the place for your own event.”

From the Carpentersville newsletter, September 2, 2026

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If you want scratch-made burgers, sandwiches, and a patio that soaks up summer, The Filling Station Pub & Grill delivers for Batavia folks…

300 W Main St (St. Charles)

“If you want scratch-made burgers, sandwiches, and a patio that soaks up summer, The Filling Station Pub & Grill delivers for Batavia folks right over in St. Charles. Antique charm, big screens for Chicago games, and 35 years of local cred make it an easy yes with family or friends.”

From the Batavia newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Carol's Corner has been an East Dundee staple for over 40 years, the kind of no-nonsense bar where locals trade stories, toast small wins,…

5 E Main St B (East Dundee)

“Carol's Corner has been an East Dundee staple for over 40 years, the kind of no-nonsense bar where locals trade stories, toast small wins, and settle in like it's their second living room. If you're craving a low-key spot with real staying power, this is it.”

From the Carpentersville newsletter, September 12, 2026

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EvenFlow Music & Spirits is that three level, renovated bank where Saint Charles folks catch live rock, jazz, and the occasional dueling…

302 W State St (Geneva)

“EvenFlow Music & Spirits is that three level, renovated bank where Saint Charles folks catch live rock, jazz, and the occasional dueling pianos or live band karaoke, then refuel with from scratch American comfort food. You can also book birthdays, fundraisers, and other shindigs when your playlist needs a bigger room.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Nobel House

Nightlife

Seafood & smoked meats headline an eclectic menu at this airy, understated pub with 30+ draft beers.

309 W State St (Geneva)

“Seafood & smoked meats headline an eclectic menu at this airy, understated pub with 30+ draft beers.”

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When you just want a cold drink and zero fuss, 3rd Street Pub hits the sweet spot with friendly faces and a classic neighborhood vibe. It’s…

11 N 3rd St Unit B (St. Charles)

“When you just want a cold drink and zero fuss, 3rd Street Pub hits the sweet spot with friendly faces and a classic neighborhood vibe. It’s the kind of spot where catching up after work feels natural, conversation flows, and the evening somehow lasts longer than planned.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, September 17, 2026

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French 75

Nightlife

French 75 is where beautifully made cocktails and gallery vibes actually get along, with curated pieces on the walls and live jazz nights…

56 E Galena Blvd (Aurora)

“French 75 is where beautifully made cocktails and gallery vibes actually get along, with curated pieces on the walls and live jazz nights that sneak up on your week. Slide in for something crafted, linger for the tunes, leave feeling a little extra Paris.”

From the Aurora newsletter, October 2, 2026

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When you want wood-smoked comfort and something interesting in your glass, Obscurity Brewing & Craft Mead brings house-brewed beers, meads,…

113 W N St (Elburn)

“When you want wood-smoked comfort and something interesting in your glass, Obscurity Brewing & Craft Mead brings house-brewed beers, meads, and ciders together with legit brisket and a picturesque beer garden where live music drifts through. Gather a crew this week and make it a low-key Elburn hang.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 8, 2026

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When the forecast acts up or you just want a different kind of night, Chip Shots Golf & Whiskey Bar in Elgin’s Wing Park pairs Full Swing…

1012 Wing St (Elgin) · ✓ checked Jul 28

“0 simulators with a whiskey bar pouring flights and cocktails. Grab food truck bites between swings and join leagues, tastings, or watch parties.”

From the Elgin newsletter, September 30, 2026

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Village Vintner is Chicagoland’s only winery, brewery and restaurant combo, pouring house-crafted wines and small-batch beers from its…

2380 Esplanade Dr (Algonquin)

“Village Vintner is Chicagoland’s only winery, brewery and restaurant combo, pouring house-crafted wines and small-batch beers from its 7-bbl brewhouse with 12 rotating picks. Swing by for a relaxed tasting or try the August wines of the month, Syrah and Caribbean Lime, then call it a night well spent.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 8, 2026

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Black & Gray Brewing Co. keeps a current tap list pouring in a chill taproom that’s perfect for midweek catchups. Make it your quick,…

311 Barrington Ave Unit B (East Dundee)

“Black & Gray Brewing Co. keeps a current tap list pouring in a chill taproom that’s perfect for midweek catchups. Make it your quick, close-to-home move this week, grab something crisp or malty, and let the conversation do the heavy lifting.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 20, 2026

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Comedy Vault

Nightlife

Comedy Vault keeps Batavia buzzing with touring headliners and rising standups, from Yannis Pappas and Greg Fitzsimmons to open mic nights…

18 E Wilson St (Batavia)

“Comedy Vault keeps Batavia buzzing with touring headliners and rising standups, from Yannis Pappas and Greg Fitzsimmons to open mic nights showcasing local talent. When you need a midweek mood reset, this stage reliably serves up fresh bits and the kind of belly laughs that follow you home.”

From the Aurora newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Obscurity Mead Hall & Cidery transforms 100% wildflower honey into meads and hard ciders, no extracts, just hive-to-glass goodness across…

21 S Main St (Elburn)

“Obscurity Mead Hall & Cidery transforms 100% wildflower honey into meads and hard ciders, no extracts, just hive-to-glass goodness across from Obscurity Brewing. Check their rotating draft list and make this the week you rediscover mead, crisp cider, and the simple joy of sipping it right where it’s made.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 12, 2026

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Hardware Sustainable Gastropub and Brewery grows its own greens in a greenhouse, pulls hops from a 1.5-acre farm for BBGB brews, and pours…

2000 W Orchard Rd (North Aurora) · ✓ checked Aug 6

“5-acre farm for BBGB brews, and pours over 1,000 whiskeys. Expect thoughtful, seasonal plates, housemade bacon and charcuterie, and cocktails that taste like someone actually cares... because they do.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, August 15, 2026

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When the group text needs a classy yet fun plan, Foxy's Hideaway delivers precision-made martinis, inventive cocktails, and a…

319 Meier St (East Dundee)

“When the group text needs a classy yet fun plan, Foxy's Hideaway delivers precision-made martinis, inventive cocktails, and a globe-trotting wine list that actually earns the word curated. Settle in, watch the bartenders work their magic, and discover a new favorite sip this week.”

From the Elgin newsletter, August 22, 2026

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Martini Room

Nightlife

Downtown staple Martini Room has been crafting award-winning martinis since 2004, with 100-plus options and seasonal flights that make…

161 E Chicago St (Elgin)

“Downtown staple Martini Room has been crafting award-winning martinis since 2004, with 100-plus options and seasonal flights that make choosing half the fun. Bring your favorite takeout, then swing in for Latin Night on Tuesday or live music Friday and let the evening turn into a story.”

From the Elgin newsletter, September 23, 2026

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Whether you're team rye, peaty, or "surprise me," The Distance Social in East Dundee lines up 400+ whiskeys and spirits, inventive seasonal…

314 N River St (East Dundee)

“Whether you're team rye, peaty, or "surprise me," The Distance Social in East Dundee lines up 400+ whiskeys and spirits, inventive seasonal cocktails and zero proof options, plus local beer picks and snacky bites. It's the cozy, historic-feeling lounge you hit when you want conversation to linger.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 21, 2026

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Plank Road Tap Room nails the adults-only cabin vibe here in Elgin, with a rotating lineup of American craft beer, plus wine, ciders,…

39W149 Plank Rd (Elgin)

“Plank Road Tap Room nails the adults-only cabin vibe here in Elgin, with a rotating lineup of American craft beer, plus wine, ciders, cocktails, and whiskey. Grab a seat in the beer garden or covered porch, bring your own food when there's no truck, and bookmark those cozy fire pit nights in the cooler months.”

From the Elgin newsletter, October 14, 2026

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Meet, drink and eat at River Street Tavern where elevated American favorites share space with a dedicated Beer Menu and a cheeky Vinos,…

102 N River St (East Dundee)

“Meet, drink and eat at River Street Tavern where elevated American favorites share space with a dedicated Beer Menu and a cheeky Vinos, Cocktails & Dreams list. It’s a laid-back spot with an events calendar and room for private gatherings when your crew gets ambitious.”

From the Elgin newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Riverlands Brewing Company in St. Charles pours crisp pilsners, hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and deep, dark stouts in a spacious,…

1860 Dean St Unit A (St. Charles)

“Riverlands Brewing Company in St. Charles pours crisp pilsners, hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and deep, dark stouts in a spacious, high-ceilinged taproom built for hanging out. Expect weekend food trucks, live music, and the kind of brewed-by-friends vibe that turns a quick pint into a lingering catch-up.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 22, 2026

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Napa-style tasting rooms and a modern, casual restaurant with American fare and wine.

1741 S Randall Rd (Algonquin)

“Napa-style tasting rooms and a modern, casual restaurant with American fare and wine.”

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Need an excuse to dress up a little this week? Club Arcada Speakeasy & Restaurant hides behind an elevator password, then rewards you with…

105 E Main St (St. Charles)

“Need an excuse to dress up a little this week? Club Arcada Speakeasy & Restaurant hides behind an elevator password, then rewards you with dinner and a legit throwback night of live entertainment, perfect for date night or corralling the crew for a private party.”

From the Saint Charles newsletter, October 13, 2026

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Up North Wine Tasting Room brings Northern Michigan to Geneva with pours spanning crisp whites, cherry-friendly reds, and sparkling picks…

9 N 2nd St (Geneva)

“Up North Wine Tasting Room brings Northern Michigan to Geneva with pours spanning crisp whites, cherry-friendly reds, and sparkling picks from names like Black Star Farms and Mawby. Swing by when you want a laid-back upgrade, and ask about their Wine Club or Whiskey Club.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, August 12, 2026

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Whether you want a laid back drink, a family dinner, or a friends' night that accidentally turns into a second round, The Walnut Speakeasy…

214 Walnut Ave (Elgin)

“Whether you want a laid back drink, a family dinner, or a friends' night that accidentally turns into a second round, The Walnut Speakeasy delivers hearty American classics, craft cocktails, and that cozy neighborhood bar energy they’ve honed for over 15 years.”

From the Elgin newsletter, September 22, 2026

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Broken Brix

Nightlife

Broken Brix is a winery, cidery and meadery with a tasting room that doubles as a fermentation emporium, so you can sip house pours then…

225 W Main St (St. Charles)

“Broken Brix is a winery, cidery and meadery with a tasting room that doubles as a fermentation emporium, so you can sip house pours then grab supplies to brew your own. take a friend and compare notes.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 21, 2026

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