Pig Minds Brewing Co., located at 4080 Steele Dr. in Machesney Park, IL, is redefining vegan dining with an impressive fusion of flavor and creativity. This welcoming venue combines a 100% vegan menu with an extensive selection of craft beers, creating a culinary experience that stands out in Rockford’s dining scene.
Customers rave about the vibrant atmosphere, filled with eclectic art and industrial flair, making it a cozy yet lively setting. Reviewers frequently highlight must-try dishes like the "smash burger," which delivers mouthwatering satisfaction, and the irresistible "brussel sprouts" enhanced with tofu. Many diners note the exceptional quality of the housemade hummus and bruschetta, celebrating the innovative preparations that elevate vegan cuisine beyond imitation to memorable dining experiences.
The attentive, friendly service rounds out the visit, with staff like Tayler consistently receiving accolades for their warmth and expertise. Whether you're a vegan or simply a food enthusiast, Pig Minds Brewing Co. promises a flavorful, fulfilling meal that leaves a lasting impression. Don't miss out on this hidden gem; it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the blossoming world of plant-based dining.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has live music
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Pig Minds Brewing Co.
Jeff Cowman
Jun 22,2025
So right off the bat, I'm not a vegan. Lol but my vegan daughter had her wedding reception here and I have to say I enjoyed the food. Excellent Brushetta, excellent vegetables and one of my friends said it was the best Hummus she had ever had. The private room in the back was great and the service was top notch! Thank you for making my daughters wedding day really special.
Karen Dee
Jun 9,2025
It's a little too loud. The smash burger was DELICIOUS. The fries were nicely spiced. I would have preferred them a little less fried. Splurge and have the warm brownie with peanut butter and chocolate sauce m You won't be sorry. Our Server was attentive and very personable! Great lunch experience!
John Shepherd
Jun 9,2025
I’ve lived in Rockford for years—just a mile down the road from Pig Minds Brewing Co.—and somehow, I had never stepped foot inside. Chalk it up to habit or oversight, but I’d always heard the buzz: a 100% vegan menu, top-tier craft beer, and a chill, alternative vibe that made it more than just a brewery. Still, it wasn’t until my best friend came into town to compete in the Rockford Ironman that I finally had the perfect reason to go. My friend is a vegan—but not just any vegan. He’s a discerning, no-shortcuts, flavor-hunting vegan. And even with my lack of personal experience, I knew immediately where I wanted to take him. It was time to finally visit Pig Minds. Let me just say: what was I waiting for?! The food was absolutely phenomenal. We tried a mix of small plates and mains, and every bite was bursting with bold flavor and creativity. This isn’t vegan food that tries to imitate meat—it’s food that stands tall on its own merit. Rich, satisfying, and inventive. My friend was deeply impressed, and that’s saying something. As a fan of craft brews, I ordered a flight and was delighted with the range—everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, each one distinct and expertly brewed. You can tell this place takes its beer seriously, and they do it well. The atmosphere struck the perfect balance: laid-back but thoughtful, with cool industrial vibes, eclectic art, and just enough edge to remind you that this place is anything but cookie-cutter. It felt like the kind of spot you’d stumble upon in a hip Chicago neighborhood—only it’s right here in Rockford. But the real star of the night? Tayler, our server. Friendly, knowledgeable, and completely dialed in. Tayler made us feel instantly welcome, gave great suggestions, and seemed genuinely proud to represent the place. It’s rare to see someone who brings that much warmth and professionalism to the table. She elevated an already-great experience into something memorable. Walking out, I couldn’t help but shake my head and laugh. How had I waited this long? I may have been late to the Pig Minds party, but I redeemed myself by choosing the perfect spot to show off Rockford to my out-of-town friend. This wasn’t just a good vegan meal—it was a great Rockford experience. If you’re local and haven’t been yet: go. If you’ve got guests in town: take them. Pig Minds Brewing Co. is more than worth the visit. It’s a hidden gem hiding in plain sight.
Thomahhawk
May 29,2025
I’ve been a frequent visitor since their opening over ten years ago. The beers are amazing and the vegan food is the best around. Get the flight and get buzzed for sure.
Vaughn Bauscher
Apr 7,2025
very very cozy place to eat. the art and design of the place is so cool. the food is amazing. my personal fave is the brussel sprouts. it's an appetizer but I add tofu and it really shakes shit up and makes it feel like a meal. the tater tots are perfectly cooked and seasoned as well. the servers are very sweet and not pushy at all. because it's small, it can be loud at times but it's well worth it because of how good the food is. my biggest and really only complaint is there is usually a 15-30 minute wait to get seated almost whenever you go. all in all, a very good vegan friendly spot that you must try if that's what you're into
Nathan Hoelscher
Mar 31,2025
A brewery and all-vegan restaurant conveniently located near the interstate which sounded great and pulled off for a lunch-dinner. It happened to be at the same time as a community book fair so it was busy, but we sat outside so noise wasn't so bad. I ordered the quinoa bowl thinking it would be more of a dense grain bowl but it was more of a salad. I'm not a crazy salad person but this bowl was amazing. The fries and tots were delicious and everyone enjoyed their sandwiches! An absolute gem in Illinois!
Bill Loulousis
Mar 17,2025
We have been here twice and to continue to come here whenever we are nearby. The beer is fantastic. We love getting the flight of ask 10 beers on tap and sharing. The food is some of the best you'll ever have. Service is always on point and the atmosphere is perfect. Did I mention this place is 100% vegan? We're omnivores, but everything on the menu is superb. I how this place stays here forever.
Rachel M
Mar 8,2025
I cannot say enough great things about this place!!! I’d heard about it for years and finally had the perfect opportunity to try it. It did not just meet my expectations, it exceeded them!! It’s hard to believe a brewery (in what feels like ...
Reviews For Pig Minds Brewing Co.