Lena Brewing Company is nestled in the heart of Lena, Illinois, offering a unique blend of hand-crafted beers and delectable food options. The menu features a wide array of craft beers, classic pub fare, and inventive entrees that cater to every taste.
a comprehensive look at their offerings, helping guests plan their visit and savor the best of Lena’s brewing tradition.
“At Lena Brewing Company, we believe in pairing great beer with exceptional food. Our menu is designed to excite your taste buds and complement our rotating taps.” – Head Brewer
Signature Craft Beers
The heart of Lena Brewing Company is its impressive selection of handcrafted beers. Each brew is made on-site, highlighting both classic styles and creative seasonal ingredients.
Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth lagers, or rich stouts, there’s a pint for every palate.
| Beer Name | Type | ABV | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lena Lager | Lager | 5.0% | Clean, crisp, malty finish |
| Blackberry Wheat | Fruit Wheat | 4.8% | Light, fruity, subtle berry |
| Iron Horse IPA | India Pale Ale | 6.5% | Hoppy, citrus, pine |
| Railroad Red | Red Ale | 5.7% | Caramel, toffee, balanced hops |
| Coal Train Stout | Stout | 6.2% | Chocolate, coffee, roasted malt |
| Seasonal Rotator | Varies | Varies | Ask your server for details |
Guests can order tasters, half-pints, or full pints of any house brew. The staff is always happy to recommend food pairings for each beer, making every visit an adventure in flavor.
Appetizers: Start Your Experience Right
Begin your Lena Brewing Company journey with a selection of crowd-pleasing appetizers. The menu focuses on bold flavors and shareable plates that pair perfectly with a cold brew.
| Appetizer | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pretzel Bites & Beer Cheese | Warm, soft pretzel bites served with house-made beer cheese dip | $8 |
| Beer-Battered Onion Rings | Thick-cut onions fried in Lena Lager batter, served with zesty sauce | $7 |
| Loaded Nachos | Tortilla chips, cheese, jalapeños, tomatoes, and choice of chicken or beef | $10 |
| Buffalo Chicken Wings | Crispy wings tossed in buffalo sauce, served with celery and ranch | $11 |
| Fried Pickles | Crispy fried dill pickles with tangy dipping sauce | $7 |
These appetizers are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a starter before diving into the main course. The beer cheese dip, made with Lena’s own brews, is a fan favorite that captures the essence of the brewery.
Salads and Lighter Fare
For diners seeking something on the lighter side, Lena Brewing Company offers a variety of fresh salads and wholesome options. Each salad is made to order, using crisp greens and house-made dressings.
| Salad | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Brewmaster’s Garden | Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, shredded carrots, croutons | $9 |
| Southwest Chicken Salad | Grilled chicken, romaine, black beans, corn, avocado, cheddar, chipotle ranch | $12 |
| Classic Caesar | Romaine, parmesan, croutons, creamy Caesar dressing | $10 |
| Steak & Bleu Cheese Salad | Seared steak, mixed greens, bleu cheese crumbles, walnuts, balsamic glaze | $15 |
Salads can be customized with added grilled chicken, crispy chicken, or shrimp for a small upcharge. The Steak & Bleu Cheese Salad is especially popular for those seeking a hearty yet fresh meal.
Burgers and Sandwiches: Hearty and Satisfying
The burger and sandwich lineup at Lena Brewing Company is both classic and creative. Featuring hand-formed beef patties, artisan buns, and house-made sauces, these menu items are designed to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
| Burger/Sandwich | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lena Classic Burger | 1/2 lb. Angus beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, cheddar, brewery sauce | $13 |
| BBQ Bacon Burger | Beef patty, smoked bacon, cheddar, onion ring, BBQ sauce | $14 |
| Mushroom Swiss Burger | Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato | $13 |
| Buffalo Chicken Sandwich | Crispy chicken breast tossed in buffalo sauce, lettuce, tomato, ranch | $12 |
| Brewer’s Pulled Pork | Slow-roasted pork, house BBQ sauce, coleslaw, toasted bun | $13 |
| Veggie Black Bean Burger | Black bean patty, avocado, lettuce, tomato, chipotle mayo | $12 |
All burgers and sandwiches are accompanied by your choice of house fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a side salad. Gluten-free buns are also available upon request, making these options accessible to all.
Signature Entrees: Beyond the Bar Food
While Lena Brewing Company is known for its burgers and beer, the kitchen also serves up a range of satisfying entrees. These dishes are perfect for those seeking a heartier meal or something that pairs beautifully with a special brew.
| Entree | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fish & Chips | Beer-battered cod, crispy fries, house tartar sauce, lemon | $15 |
| Brewery Mac & Cheese | Cavatappi pasta, cheddar ale sauce, toasted breadcrumbs | $12 |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | 12 oz. ribeye, garlic mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables | $24 |
| Chicken Tenders Basket | Crispy chicken tenders, fries, honey mustard dipping sauce | $11 |
| BBQ Baby Back Ribs | Slow-smoked ribs, house BBQ sauce, fries, coleslaw | $20 |
| Vegetarian Pasta Primavera | Seasonal vegetables, penne pasta, garlic white wine sauce | $13 |
The Fish & Chips is especially popular, with fish fillets fried in Lena’s signature beer batter. For a comforting, cheesy delight, the Brewery Mac & Cheese is a must-try, blending the flavors of local cheese and Lena’s own ale.
Flatbreads and Pizzas
For those who crave something shareable or a bit different, Lena Brewing Company’s flatbreads and pizzas hit the spot. Each is made with fresh dough, premium toppings, and baked to crispy perfection.
| Flatbread/Pizza | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita Flatbread | Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, balsamic drizzle | $11 |
| BBQ Chicken Flatbread | Grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, red onion, mozzarella, cilantro | $12 |
| Pepperoni Pizza | Classic pepperoni, mozzarella, house tomato sauce | $13 |
| Veggie Delight Flatbread | Mushrooms, peppers, onions, olives, spinach, feta | $11 |
| Meat Lover’s Pizza | Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, ham, mozzarella | $15 |
These pizzas and flatbreads are perfect for sharing or as a main course. The BBQ Chicken Flatbread, topped with Lena’s own BBQ sauce, is a standout option that pairs wonderfully with a pint of Iron Horse IPA.
Kid’s Menu: Family-Friendly Choices
Lena Brewing Company welcomes families with a kid-friendly menu that ensures little ones have plenty to enjoy. Each meal includes a small drink and a choice of fries or apple slices.
| Kid’s Meal | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Cheeseburger | Grilled beef patty, cheddar, soft bun | $6 |
| Chicken Tenders | Two crispy chicken tenders | $6 |
| Grilled Cheese | American cheese on toasted bread | $5 |
| Mac & Cheese | Creamy cheddar macaroni | $5 |
| Pepperoni Pizza Slice | Cheesy pizza slice with pepperoni | $6 |
Parents can relax knowing there are tasty, wholesome options for every child. The kid’s menu portions are generous, ensuring even the pickiest eaters leave satisfied.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
No meal at Lena Brewing Company is complete without sampling their house-made desserts. Each sweet treat is crafted using high-quality ingredients and often features local flavors.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Stout Cake | Rich chocolate cake made with Coal Train Stout, chocolate ganache | $7 |
| Warm Apple Crisp | Baked apples, cinnamon streusel, vanilla ice cream | $6 |
| Cheesecake of the Day | Rotating selection, ask your server | $7 |
| Ice Cream Sundae | Vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, cherry | $5 |
The Chocolate Stout Cake is a decadent favorite, featuring the brewery’s own stout for a deep, malty flavor. Warm Apple Crisp is another highlight, especially comforting on cool evenings.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
In addition to craft beer, Lena Brewing Company offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. These drinks are perfect for designated drivers, families, or anyone seeking a refreshing alternative.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Root Beer | House-made, small batch root beer | $3 |
| Lemonade | Fresh-squeezed lemonade | $3 |
| Iced Tea | Freshly brewed, unsweetened | $2 |
| Soft Drinks | Cola, diet cola, lemon-lime, ginger ale | $2 |
| Hot Chocolate | Rich cocoa topped with whipped cream | $3 |
| Coffee | Locally roasted, bottomless cup | $2 |
The house-made Craft Root Beer is a must-try, delivering nostalgic flavor with every sip. For a cozy touch during colder months, the hot chocolate is a comforting choice.
Seasonal and Special Menus
Lena Brewing Company frequently updates its menu with seasonal specials and limited-time offerings. These dishes often highlight local ingredients and creative collaborations with area farms and artisans.
Past specials have included Oktoberfest platters, smoked brisket sandwiches, and summer berry salads. The brewery also hosts themed nights, such as Taco Tuesdays and Friday Fish Fry, each with unique menus and beer pairings.
“Our kitchen loves to experiment with fresh, local produce and inventive recipes. Every season brings new flavors to our guests.” – Lena Brewing Culinary Team
Dietary Accommodations
The menu at Lena Brewing Company is designed to be inclusive, offering several vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests with allergies or dietary restrictions are encouraged to speak with their server, who can recommend suitable dishes or customize meals as needed.
Notable options include the Veggie Black Bean Burger, Vegetarian Pasta Primavera, and gluten-free flatbreads. The kitchen staff is attentive and happy to adjust preparations to ensure every guest enjoys a safe and delicious meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Part of the Lena Brewing Company experience is discovering the perfect pairing of food and beer. The staff is well-trained in suggesting combinations that enhance the flavors of both the meal and the brew.
| Menu Item | Beer Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Fish & Chips | Lena Lager | Light, crisp beer complements the fried fish |
| BBQ Bacon Burger | Railroad Red | Malty flavors balance smoky, savory notes |
| Buffalo Wings | Iron Horse IPA | Hoppy bitterness cuts through spicy heat |
| Chocolate Stout Cake | Coal Train Stout | Rich, roasted flavors echo the dessert |
| Southwest Chicken Salad | Blackberry Wheat | Fruity notes refresh the spicy salad |
These recommendations are just a starting point for your own explorations. Feel free to ask for tasting notes or sample flights to discover new favorite combinations.
Atmosphere and Experience
While the menu is a major draw, the inviting atmosphere at Lena Brewing Company elevates every meal. The rustic décor, friendly staff, and regular live music nights create a welcoming environment for all.
Outdoor seating is available during warmer months, offering views of the Illinois countryside. The brewery also hosts community events, beer release parties, and trivia nights, making it a lively gathering spot year-round.
Takeout and Catering
Lena Brewing Company offers takeout for most menu items, making it easy to enjoy their food and beer at home. Special catering packages are available for parties, corporate events, and celebrations, with customizable menus to suit any occasion.
Growlers and crowlers are available for beer to-go, so you can share your favorite Lena brews with friends and family. Orders can be placed by phone or online, with curbside pickup for convenience.
Visiting Tips
To make the most of your Lena Brewing Company visit, consider arriving early on weekends, as the taproom can fill up fast. Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially during special events or live music nights.
Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations, whether you’re new to craft beer or a seasoned enthusiast. The staff’s passion for food and brewing ensures every guest receives exceptional service and guidance.
Conclusion: The Lena Brewing Company Difference
Lena Brewing Company’s menu is a vibrant celebration of local flavor, craft beer, and community spirit. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to complement the brewery’s handcrafted beers, making for a memorable dining experience.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a night out with friends, the diverse menu ensures everyone will find something to love. From signature ales to inventive entrees, Lena Brewing Company continues to be a destination for food and beer lovers alike.
