Brother Chimp Brewing Celebrates Five Years with Major Expansion

When Brother Chimp Brewing opened its doors in North Aurora on March 16, 2020, the business faced an immediate challenge as the state of Illinois mandated closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic just one day later. Despite this rocky start, the microbrewery has flourished over the past five years, recently being recognized as the Best Microbrewery in Kane County in the Shaw Media Readers’ Choice Awards.

Owner Stephen Newman reflects on the brewery’s journey, noting the joy it brings to customers. “When I’m having a rough day, I go to the brewery, and there will be two or three people who come up to me with one of our beers in their hand and tell me how happy they are to be here,” he said. “And I know we’re putting good out into the world.”

Newman’s passion for brewing dates back to his college days, where an unexpected encounter with a cherry stout transformed his perception of beer. This revelation laid the groundwork for his future in brewing. After retiring from a corporate career at the age of 53, he turned his hobby into a profession. In 2015, he produced a sample of his homebrew that earned him a spot in a brewing incubator at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge, where he refined both his brewing techniques and business acumen.

In July 2019, Newman secured a lease for his North Aurora location, initially intending to name the brewery after his fantasy baseball team, the Chimp Monks. However, after realizing that many misheard it as “Chipmunks,” he rebranded it to Brother Chimp Brewing, a change that allowed him to keep his original logo.

The brewery officially opened on March 16, 2020. The following day, the pandemic forced all breweries, restaurants, and taverns to close. “It was not exactly the opening I had expected,” Newman admitted. Yet, the brewery adapted by offering beer for takeaway, gradually reestablishing its taproom and building a loyal customer base.

Since its inception, Brother Chimp has expanded its beer lineup, which now includes award-winning options such as a gold medal-winning Vienna lager at the 2024 World Beer Cup. Other popular brews include the “For the Masses” IPA, “Homer” American pilsner, “Smile” Coffee Brown Ale, and “Tropical Chimp,” a hazy New England-style IPA infused with flavors of pineapple, coconut, and cedar. Seasonal offerings, such as the Oktoberfest, further enhance the brewery’s appeal.

The taproom remains the heart of Brother Chimp, described by Newman as a warm and inviting space featuring 12 beers on tap, alongside cider, seltzers, and even Malört for adventurous customers. Weekly live music and rotating food trucks contribute to a vibrant atmosphere, while a dedicated staff—many of whom have been with the brewery since its founding—help maintain operations smoothly.

Looking ahead, Brother Chimp Brewing is set to expand with a second location opening in fall 2025 in downtown St. Charles, taking over the former site of D and G Brewing Co. “St. Charles is a great brewing community,” Newman said. “As we celebrate our five-year anniversary, we are really looking forward to bringing Brother Chimp to such a great spot.”

Newman’s journey from a homebrewer to the owner of a celebrated microbrewery illustrates the resilience and passion that drive small businesses in challenging times. With an expanding footprint and a loyal customer base, Brother Chimp Brewing is poised for continued success in the craft beer landscape.