Great beers and amazing food!! Definitely one of the best breweries in town
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Culinary Chronicles of Central Illinois SevenMALKIN
Culinary Chronicles of Central Illinois: An Adventure at Lil Beaver Brewery
Some adventures don’t require a passport — just a short drive across Bloomington. Our latest stop took us to Lil Beaver Brewery, a bold and creative hub of local beer innovation that has been delighting Central Illinois since 2016.
We were greeted by General Manager Brandon Ciasnocha, who shared stories of the brewery’s evolution and local impact. Owners Adam and Justin Bellas have taken their “small but mighty” brewery from a homegrown dream to a Bloomington favorite that’s crafted over 200 beers throughout the years. Their flagship hit — the ever-popular Wainbows — continues to fly off the taps.
Step inside and you’ll quickly sense the energy: the beer garden extends the space beautifully, offering room for friends, families, and laughter under the open sky. Sustainability also plays a proud role here — Lil Beaver partners with local farmers, sending their spent grains to feed cattle and close the local loop in true community fashion.
Tasting the Adventure
Our tasting flight read like a tour through the brewery’s creative DNA. Wyezick – a crisp and refreshing wheat ale with balanced citrus notes. Wainbow – their iconic fruited IPA that bursts with tropical character. CHRA Space Crystals – a hazy IPA that’s smooth, juicy, and cosmic in both flavor and name. Dipped and Deride – a dessert-inspired stout that turns indulgence into art. Peach Crumble – like summer in a glass, softly sweet and fruit-forward. Jitters – coffee lovers rejoice; a bold brew that marries rich roast with silky texture. PDC Lager – clean, crisp, and perfect for a classic beer moment. Amber Ale – toasted malt warmth for those who love tradition done right.
Brewers Collin Shaffer and Tyler bring creative fire to every keg they craft, while bartenders TJ and AJ make each pour a friendly experience that keeps regulars coming back.
Bites to Match the Brews
Don’t miss the Wisconsin white cheese curds — simply outstanding when paired with a pint of amber. The homemade pretzels dipped in beer cheese are another highlight — warm, flavorful, and flat-out addictive.
For mains, we couldn’t resist the Birria Nachos, piled high and full of rich flavor, and the Beaver Wrap, a crowd favorite featuring tender chicken and house-made flair.
Every corner of this brewery hums with creativity, community, and care — proof that great beer tastes even better when rooted in local pride.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
PK
I ordered a Rueben sandwich and fries. The sandwich was a bit on the dry side. It needed a little more sauce. The fries were well seasoned and had a good crisp. The service and atmosphere was good.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
John B.
Went with my brother and sister in law Sunday after Thanksgiving. Great selection on beers, food fantastic and service was great. It would be nice if they had a couple pool tables in the back area outside of the slots room. Lil B would be an awesome place for pool leagues with their food and beers.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Chris Hartley
Delicious beer! Great food, atmosphere and service. I brought some home with me.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Alex V
A nice hangout spot for medium and larger groups since they have a nice outdoor space. Fun beer options. The food has been hit or miss for me. The birria and cheese curds are solid. The house potato chips are always disappointing.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
JF Bruns
11/25 - Played golf with HS buddies & brought them here afterwards. All of them were impressed with the food, service, and atmosphere. Me, I come for the beer, but the wings were pretty good.
9/25 - Came here on a recommendation and glad we did. Great Beer, Great Service, fun & lively place on a Friday evening. but parking can be a problem. Had the Tacos, good but you need a bib. Wife had the Ruben & onion rings and our friend a grilled cheese. No complaints. Will be my place of choice next time I'm in Bloomington.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mei Mei's Cookies \u0026 Creamery LLC
The beer and seltzers were refreshing and the decor and whimsy were fun. We would love to stop again when we have more time to try more items on the food and beverage menus.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Casey S
Always a great time! Servers, food, and brews have been fantastic every time I’ve been. Casual, laid back atmosphere with ample indoor and outdoor seating.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jodi Brtva
We had the best experience tonight! We had Cara as a server and she was wonderful. Very pleasant and fun. We had some appetizers that were great. Very laid back atmosphere and we were not rushed at all. One of our favorite places!
What a cool place. Great food great beer. Great stop off spot between cr and indi
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jeff Bakken
Nice time sitting out back enjoying food and brews.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Birria Tacos, Skillet Cookie, The Dam Smashburger
Gretchen Shelly
Lots of flies and gnats. Real silverware and plates etc but Styrofoam to go boxes.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Peter Downs
Such a great space inside and out. Checks all the boxes for a place to go out to and have a great time. Service, space, food and of course the atmosphere was top notch. Will definitely stop again when in area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Diana Deutsch
Service and beer were good. Food was served quickly, but home made potato chips were stale. The A/C was really cranked up and it was quite cool inside. Wish I had a jacket.
Great beers and amazing food!! Definitely one of the best breweries in town
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Culinary Chronicles of Central Illinois: An Adventure at Lil Beaver Brewery
Some adventures don’t require a passport — just a short drive across Bloomington. Our latest stop took us to Lil Beaver Brewery, a bold and creative hub of local beer innovation that has been delighting Central Illinois since 2016.
We were greeted by General Manager Brandon Ciasnocha, who shared stories of the brewery’s evolution and local impact. Owners Adam and Justin Bellas have taken their “small but mighty” brewery from a homegrown dream to a Bloomington favorite that’s crafted over 200 beers throughout the years. Their flagship hit — the ever-popular Wainbows — continues to fly off the taps.
Step inside and you’ll quickly sense the energy: the beer garden extends the space beautifully, offering room for friends, families, and laughter under the open sky. Sustainability also plays a proud role here — Lil Beaver partners with local farmers, sending their spent grains to feed cattle and close the local loop in true community fashion.
Tasting the Adventure
Our tasting flight read like a tour through the brewery’s creative DNA.
Wyezick – a crisp and refreshing wheat ale with balanced citrus notes.
Wainbow – their iconic fruited IPA that bursts with tropical character.
CHRA Space Crystals – a hazy IPA that’s smooth, juicy, and cosmic in both flavor and name.
Dipped and Deride – a dessert-inspired stout that turns indulgence into art.
Peach Crumble – like summer in a glass, softly sweet and fruit-forward.
Jitters – coffee lovers rejoice; a bold brew that marries rich roast with silky texture.
PDC Lager – clean, crisp, and perfect for a classic beer moment.
Amber Ale – toasted malt warmth for those who love tradition done right.
Brewers Collin Shaffer and Tyler bring creative fire to every keg they craft, while bartenders TJ and AJ make each pour a friendly experience that keeps regulars coming back.
Bites to Match the Brews
Don’t miss the Wisconsin white cheese curds — simply outstanding when paired with a pint of amber. The homemade pretzels dipped in beer cheese are another highlight — warm, flavorful, and flat-out addictive.
For mains, we couldn’t resist the Birria Nachos, piled high and full of rich flavor, and the Beaver Wrap, a crowd favorite featuring tender chicken and house-made flair.
Every corner of this brewery hums with creativity, community, and care — proof that great beer tastes even better when rooted in local pride.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I ordered a Rueben sandwich and fries. The sandwich was a bit on the dry side. It needed a little more sauce. The fries were well seasoned and had a good crisp. The service and atmosphere was good.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Went with my brother and sister in law Sunday after Thanksgiving. Great selection on beers, food fantastic and service was great. It would be nice if they had a couple pool tables in the back area outside of the slots room. Lil B would be an awesome place for pool leagues with their food and beers.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Delicious beer! Great food, atmosphere and service. I brought some home with me.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A nice hangout spot for medium and larger groups since they have a nice outdoor space. Fun beer options. The food has been hit or miss for me. The birria and cheese curds are solid. The house potato chips are always disappointing.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
11/25 - Played golf with HS buddies & brought them here afterwards. All of them were impressed with the food, service, and atmosphere. Me, I come for the beer, but the wings were pretty good.
9/25 - Came here on a recommendation and glad we did. Great Beer, Great Service, fun & lively place on a Friday evening. but parking can be a problem. Had the Tacos, good but you need a bib. Wife had the Ruben & onion rings and our friend a grilled cheese. No complaints. Will be my place of choice next time I'm in Bloomington.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The beer and seltzers were refreshing and the decor and whimsy were fun. We would love to stop again when we have more time to try more items on the food and beverage menus.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Always a great time! Servers, food, and brews have been fantastic every time I’ve been. Casual, laid back atmosphere with ample indoor and outdoor seating.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We had the best experience tonight! We had Cara as a server and she was wonderful. Very pleasant and fun. We had some appetizers that were great. Very laid back atmosphere and we were not rushed at all. One of our favorite places!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
What a cool place. Great food great beer. Great stop off spot between cr and indi
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nice time sitting out back enjoying food and brews.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Birria Tacos, Skillet Cookie, The Dam Smashburger
Lots of flies and gnats. Real silverware and plates etc but Styrofoam to go boxes.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Such a great space inside and out. Checks all the boxes for a place to go out to and have a great time. Service, space, food and of course the atmosphere was top notch. Will definitely stop again when in area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Service and beer were good. Food was served quickly, but home made potato chips were stale. The A/C was really cranked up and it was quite cool inside. Wish I had a jacket.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
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