Great Beer.
Genuine Hospitality.
Real Community.
A lot of flavor, a lot of heart, and a place where everyone’s welcome.
Whether it’s a busy night filled with laughter and dogs underfoot, or a quiet afternoon with a pint & a pizza—you’ll always find a seat and a sense of belonging here.
More Than Beer—A Place to Gather, Connect, and Belong.
Every beer we pour is crafted with care and meant to be shared.
Our dog- and family-friendly taproom, community room, and riverside patio are designed to bring people together.
From weekly gatherings to community fundraisers, we love creating a space where neighbors connect, friendships form, and everyone feels at home.
We’re proud to be part of one of the greatest beer cities in the world, and we can’t wait to welcome you in.
Meet Our Founder
Brent has an atypical path into beer.
Originally from Spokane, WA, Brent saw his life on the path of service.
Studying at Washington State University (Go Cougs!), he majored in secondary social studies education and served as a youth director at local churches. He later enrolled at Princeton Theological Seminary.
After spending a year teaching in Zambia and spending a short time in New York City, he and his wife Erin moved to Wilmette in 2011.
In 2012 Brent became the pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in North Riverside. At that time, Brent began home brewing and the dream of one day owning his own brewery was born.
Brent made the leap into brewing full-time when his church closed at the end of 2017.
After an extensive and exhaustive two year process that included honing his recipes and finding and renovating the perfect Chicago location, Burning Bush Brewery held its grand opening March 6, 2020. About a week later, COVID mitigation efforts closed Burning Bush to the public, but thankfully, he was able to continue brewing and selling beer to go. Later that summer, the patio opened, and guests were able to sit outside along the Chicago river.
And in the nearly five years since, the brewery has developed into a staple in North Center with a dedicated following and a commitment to supporting the community.
Brent is forever grateful for the support of so many friends and family who believed in him especially his incredible wife, Erin and two beautiful daughters Esme and Brooklyn.

Taste what we’re all about.
Our beer is brewed to be enjoyed fresh, available exclusively in our taproom. With 12 rotating taps, guest ciders, wine on tap, and snacks to pair with every pour, there’s always something new to discover.
Stop by, grab a pint, and experience it for yourself.
Meet Our Team
We’re passionate about beer, service, and helping you feel at home.
Press
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Burning Bush Brewery: From Sermons to Sours, Spruce Tip IPAs, and the Story Behind Tree Wrestling
Crafty Brewers: Tales Behind Craft Beer | October 2024
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Chicagoans flock to riverfront to try and spy elusive eagle
WGN9 Chicago | February 2024
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There’s A Bald Eagle Soaring Over The North Branch Of The Chicago River
Book Club Chicago | January 2024
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Meet a Former Pastor Who Now Brews Beer in North Center
FOX32 Chicago | August 2023
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From Pulpit to Pint Glass: How One Former Pastor Created a North Side Brewery
WTTW Chicago | August 2023
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Will hike for beer! Seven Midwest hikes with taprooms nearby
WBEZ Chicago | June 2023
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Burning Bush Brewery Expands With Event Venue And Riverside Patio In North Center
Block Club Chicago | March 2023
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Burning Bush Brewery: High-quality craft beer
WGN’s Daytime Chicago | February 2023
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A Brewery Where Faith Is Always On Tap
Presbyterian Mission | May 2021
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Burning Bush Brewery Celebrates One Year Anniversary
Block Club Chicago | March 2021
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Chicago Church Releases A Beer for Advent and the End of the World
Religion News | November 2020
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Burning Bush Brewery Opening Thursday in North Center
Block Club Chicago | January 2020
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From Pastor to Brewmaster, Man Brings Brewery to North Side
WGN News | November 2019
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How a Chicago Pastor Went from Running a Church to Opening a Brewery
WGN Radio 720 | November 2019
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Pastor Trades Church for Beer, Opening Burning Bush Brewery in North Center This Winter
Block Club Chicago | October 2019
Visit the Brewery
The best way to experience Burning Bush is in person.
Join us in our taproom, grab a spot on the patio, or bring friends for a community event.