Pig Minds Brewing Co. - Machesney Park

This restaurant offers a fantastic variety of beers, a wonderful plant-based menu (we enjoyed the Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and curry sweet potato fries), and a spacious patio that welcomes dogs. It's conveniently located near Rock Cut State Park, where we are currently camping. I highly recommend this spot!

Whenever I'm in town, I always make sure to visit this restaurant as it is the only vegan option in the Rockford metropolitan area. In addition to serving delicious food, they also brew their own beer which is of excellent quality. My non-vegan family especially enjoys the quesadilla burger, which has become a regular favorite for them. Whether you're looking for pizza, bowls, sandwiches, or salads, this restaurant has a menu that will please everyone, regardless of dietary preference. On weekends, the restaurant tends to be very busy, a sign of its popularity. The owners are dedicated to continually improving their menu, offering new and exciting dishes. With generous portions of tasty food, top-notch brews, and friendly staff, Pig Minds is a highly recommended spot for anyone in the area.

The Brussels sprouts appetizer was delicious, but as a meat lover, I was not a fan of the vegan Rueben sandwich. The background noise at the restaurant was excessive and made it hard to concentrate. While I regret not fully enjoying my meal, I am not sure if I would choose to dine here again.

I’ve recently had to switch to a GF/DF diet and immediately thought of Pig Minds. We had the cauliflower buffalo wings and the elote chorizo bowl. Both were phenomenal! Large portions- couldn’t finish. Only negative was the lack of a GF beer/cider to try. They package their own beers that they brew, but also have regular liquor also. Outdoor seating available with about 10 tables on their patio.

MINDBLOWN by the entirely vegan menu! Visited mid-afternoon on a Saturday and the place was packed! It was a beautiful spring day, so outdoor seating was open as well and we still waited for a seat. It was a very short wait and so worth it! Great flight prices—10 5oz pours for $18 and there’s something to appease every taste! We tried the Korean style cauliflower wings, soft pretzels, bruschetta Mac and cheese and Loaded fries. Everything was delicious! With an ever-evolving menu and a weekend brunch menu, you can always find something new to try. My vegan-skeptic husband enjoyed everything too—bonus! Can’t wait to visit again!