Budget Liquors

This is the other place that was a go to pre-Friar Tuck’s. very good range of micros, as well as your standard BMC fair for the frat guys. Prices are reasonable. Offers plenty of choice in a not so bad area.

From outside the place, and based on the sign and the fact that it’s in a college town, most beer folk would probably pass this place by, but if you’re in town, stop in.

I’ve been here a million times because they keep good beers around and because it just so happens to be literally a few steps from my fiancee’s apartment.

The ambiance is fine. It’s bright, clean, and full of goofy shit that mainly appeals to a college crowd. There are frequent give-aways like kegerators, fridges, etc.

The service is fair to bad. Unless you’re getting a keg, nobody really knows what they’re selling you. If you go during the day and catch the manager, you’re in good shape. Go at night and the brah and blondes working won’t be able to tell you where the Expedition Stout is because it’s not by the Skol Vodka.

The selection is pretty good for the area, the location, etc. They carry tons of Bell’s, Three Floyds, Ommegang, Schlafly, and I could go on. They have a lot, and they focus a fair amount on keeping good craft beer in stock. It was one of the first places I saw Hopslam after Bell’s finally recontracted Illinois.

The value is pretty average. They aren’t screwing you, but you won’t get any great deals.

Overall, definitely stop by for a bomber or good six pack if you’re in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.