Mickey Finn's Brewery Moves to Larger Space in Libertyville

Submitted by Sigale Public Relations

Mickey Finn's Brewery, the first and largest microbrewery in Lake County, has moved to larger quarters at 345 N. Milwaukee Avenue, one block south of the location it occupied the last 20 years. 

The new Mickey Finn's Brewery opened its doors on April 26 to record crowds and a Libertyville District 70 fund-raiser.  

The newly located 15,000 square foot brewpub is the result of a massive remodeling of an existing office building that includes a main dining room with seating for 175, 60-foot bar fashioned from rough-hewed white oak featuring 14 beer taps, a dozen big screen TVs, banquet facility serving up to 250 guests, kitchen double the size of the old one boasting state-of-the-art equipment, and future arcade room.  There is much more parking available at the new location.

"Our new building was a 98-year-old hidden gem," said Brian Grano, owner.  "Nobody knew what to do with it, but for us, it's the perfect building.  I bought it and I’m excited to continue our great tradition with a perfect mix of old and new.  We’re thrilled to bring it back to life.” 

Mickey Finn’s Brewery, whose credo is “Life, Libertyville, and the Pursuit of Happiness,” has expanded its brewpub menu but has kept guest favorites such as the Mickey Burger, Pat E. Melt Reuben, and brisket sandwiches; natural gas-fired pizza; and its signature hot wings.  

The menu is complemented by Mickey Finn’s award winning, hand-crafted ales and lagers.

In addition, Mickey Finn’s Brewery’s new, larger brewing facility, run by veteran brew master Greg Browne, will produce 25 percent more of its own, award-winning ales and lagers which previously outputted 2,000 kegs a year ago.  Last year, Mickey Finn’s Brewery served its five millionth pint of craft beer. All natural, free of additives or preservatives, Mickey Finn’s brewed beer will be back on tap by Father’s Day, said Grano.

Mickey Finn’s Brewery’s banquet facility fulfills a need in Libertyville which already has resulted in an increase in function reservations from the same time a year ago. The room, which includes a view of the brewery, can be partitioned for parties of 166 or 50 people. There is a 12-person conference room for business meetings and smaller, more intimate gatherings. 

The ambitious build out includes the original brick walls, restoration of the exposed wood trusses, and a smooth concrete floor which has created a trendy warehouse look.  Expected to attract a lively crowd is an outdoor beer garden which is accessible through 10-foot-tall garage-style doors.  Imposing are the prominent, Belgium-influenced step gable brick front and art-nouveau iron canopy.  

The brewpub has enjoyed overflow business, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.  It validated Grano’s decision not to move Mickey Finn’s Brewery out of Libertyville, a fleeting business consideration.

“The majority of our customers are from Libertyville,’ said Grano.  “They are extremely loyal.  I have made many friends in this town the last 10 years.  I am glad I decided to stay in the village. And, of course, it doesn’t hurt that 25,000 motorists drive by our new location every weekday.”