Local Brewery to Replace Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom in Dubuque
One of the staple businesses on Dubuque's Highway 20 is in the process of winding down operations this week, and a local brewery is poised to take over the existing space in what seems like a rapid transition.
Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom is set to close its doors at the end of this week. The business moved into 3100 Dodge Street in 2018, following the closure of Champps America. Owned by SPB Hospitality, Old Chicago has several dozen locations across the United States, and specializes in Chicago-style pizza, Italian entrees, and a wide variety of beers and cocktails.
READ MORE: Dubuque's Pita Pit Closes After Eight-Year Run
What is Taking Over in Place of Old Chicago in Dubuque:
While Old Chicago has yet to make a statement regarding its closing on their Facebook page, the announcement came from 7 Hills Brewing Company. Combining two surprises into one, in addition to revealing that Old Chicago will be closing, 7 Hills confirmed they will be opening up a brand new taproom in the existing space.
The following statement was posted on 7 Hills' Facebook page:
Life really is a crazy game of poker; we learn to play the hand we're dealt. Covid, however, really put the table on tilt.
Old Chicago Dubuque is putting down their cards and has invited us to take their place at the table.
We want to thank them for being pioneers in the craft beer industry, which continues to evolve and emerge. Locally, they grabbed the torch from Champps, weathered the pandemic, and passed it to us at 7 Hills Brewing Co.
This week will be their last in service for Dubuque, as we prepare to open a new menu concept under the 7 Hills Tap House.
Humbled by opportunity; excited for adventures. Cheers Dubuque! - per 7 Hills Brewing Company's Facebook post
7 Hills has been one of Dubuque's greatest success stories since its inception. Their motto is "unapologetically individualistic," and they're well worthy of that moniker. With a thriving brewpub in the Millwork District, they've successfully expanded all throughout eastern Iowa and even into Wisconsin. The upcoming Dodge Street taproom will be their fifth location, which also includes:
The sunsetting of Old Chicago is disappointing in its own right, given the impact its had combined with the longevity. The silver lining is the fact that the space won't lie vacant for too long, as 7 Hills management is working with Old Chicago representatives to make the transition seamless.
READ MORE: 7 Hills Brewing Company: Come for the Beer, Stay for the Weird!
Stay up to date with 7 Hills Brewing Company's expansion in Dubuque on their Facebook page.
Photos: 7 Hills Brewing Company in Dubuque
Gallery Credit: Tom Ehlers
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