Hopvine Brewing Company

A laid-back atmosphere that buzzes with comradery (and hops), Hopvine Brewing Company sits just beside the Fox Valley Mall. Owners Doug and Jan Isley opened the restaurant and brewery close to 11 years ago, aiming to pair craft kitchen eats with brews that fit the flavor profile to match.

The couple, who has been married for 38 years, are not Aurora born and bred—yet their passion for the art of brewing came in conjunction with the desire to build a space where offerings felt big city, but where the vibe felt hometown; Aurora fit that bill. With a menu that aims to please a variety of tastes and needs—from vegetarian options, traditional Mexican offerings, and even a gluten-free beer—the Isley’s wanted Hopvine to be a place of gathering and community in the center of the Fox Valley.

Empty grain and malt bags decorate the industrial ceilings, boasting the hundreds of pounds worth of ingredients that the Isley’s and Brewmaster Zach Sutton have used to develop their on-tap brews, including a Mexican Lager. Local hops—including those you can find planted in Hopvine Brewing’s outdoor patio—are key to keeping all that the restaurant provides feeling native to the community.

The Isley’s daughter, Kristin, serves as the Front-of-House manager, while barkeep Tom Rice is known for his ability to spin a craft drink for regulars and newbies alike. Oftentimes, he is crafting your drink before you’ve even gotten the chance to order it.

Various quotes about the special quality of brews and fellowship line the walls, with one, in particular, summarizing what Doug Isley hopes visitors feel when sitting back at Hopvine Brewing Company:

"Things don’t make me nearly as happy as talking and having a beer with my friends, and that is something everybody can do.”

4030 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora, IL 60504

Find out more about Hopvine Brewing Company HERE.