Joining the throng of more than 1,000 breweries worldwide, One Lake Brewing, 1 Lake St. in Oak Park, has crafted a Black is Beautiful beer. Inspired by an initiative started by Weathered Souls Brewing in San Antonio, Texas, One Lake is using the beer to raise awareness for the injustices people of color face daily.
“We are hoping the beer connects with our diverse beer-loving community,” said One-Lake co-owner Jason Alfonsi. “Brewing it was a way to help facilitate hope and change.”
The Black German lager (5.7% abv) is made with five unique malts and boasts a “lightly roasty” flavor and note of chocolate.
“When you are done cutting the lawn you don’t often think of drinking a stout,” said Alfonsi. “This beer is dark, but not heavy. It’s smooth and easy to drink. It’s a thirst-quencher.”
Do not shy away from visiting One Lake’s rooftop for a pint. They are in the process of preparing their well-appointed open-air dining area for chillier temperatures. A wind reducing wrap, roof covering and heaters will keep patrons cozy while they sip their Black is Beautiful beer in the crisp autumn air.
Available by the pint on the roof top patio or in 32-ounce crowlers to-go, all proceeds from the sale of the One Lake’s Black is Beautiful beer will be directed to My Block, My Hood, My City — a Chicago based non-profit whose mission is to provide “underprivileged youth with an awareness of the world and opportunities beyond their neighborhood.”
