EDGEWATER — The developer who built Fountainhead restaurant in Lincoln Square plans to bring a brewery and a tap room to Devon Avenue.
Brittany Groot and Alex Drayer, former Loyola University students who recently moved back to Chicago from Colorado, intend to launch D and G Brewing Company at 1221-23 W. Devon Ave.
"I'm excited to work with them," said developer Scott Whelan, who has begun renovations in the building. He also plans to add three floors of residential units there by the end of the year. "Right now we're just doing the community process, which I think is going to go well."
The zoning of the block would need to be changed to commercial and a liquor moritorium would need to be lifted, Whelan said.
Groot and Drayer could not be reached for comment, but they are on the agenda of a neighborhood group's meeting Monday to present the plans.
The couple also distributed a statement to neighbors as an introduction.
They said they learned to brew in Colorado, where they both taught criminology at the University of Northern Colorado.
D and G would begin with a capacity of 500 barrels of beer a year.
"We see making beer as a chef sees food," the statement said.
The brewery and taproom would serve four beers, including a saison, IPA, American Stout and American Amber.
Patrons would be able to see the brewing process and ask questions.
Beer would be served by the glass, in growlers and by keg to local restaurants and bars. Customers would be allowed to bring in food from other restaurants.
Whelan said he hadn't found a tenant for the corner storefront, but expects a restaurant to eventually open there.
Five years ago, Whelan built out the space at 1970 W. Montrose Ave. for Fountainhead, including the lauded rooftop. Whelan is also responsible for the extensive construction at 5352 North Broadway, the future home of Pearl's Southern Comfort.
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