Brewery Profile

Stubborn German Brewing Co

In the heart of downtown Waterloo, visitors to this taproom find a local brewery built around a broad draft list rather than a single narrow specialty. Stubborn German Brewing Co. keeps 18 taps for freshly brewed beer, with an emphasis on German and American style lagers, stouts, and ales. The room also functions as more than a beer stop: it carries a substantial selection of canned beer for off-site drinking, along with bourbon, rye whiskey, signature cocktails, and wine. For visitors comparing options in Waterloo’s compact downtown area, it is a place where a mixed group can sit down even if not everyone is ordering beer.

Travelers in this part of Illinois often look for straightforward neighborhood taprooms, seasonal traditions, and beers tied to familiar regional drinking styles. Stubborn German fits that pattern through its lager focus and its flagship Stubbornfest, a year-round Marzen-style Oktoberfest beer. The annual calendar also gives the brewery a community role beyond regular service. Sausagefest takes place in April, the main Stubbornfest event is held in October, and Black Beer Friday follows Thanksgiving. Those events point to a taproom that is used by local regulars as well as visitors passing through for a weekend, a downtown walk, or a stop before or after dinner nearby.

The brewery does not have an in-house kitchen, so visitors should plan accordingly. Outside food is allowed, and patrons may also order delivery from local establishments, which makes the taproom flexible for groups that want beer, spirits, or wine without committing to a single menu. The day’s pours are best confirmed at the bar, especially with 18 taps and canned options available for carryout. The premises also include a rentable basement Speakeasy area, and the brewery serves as a meeting place for local groups including The FERM Homebrewing Club and The Brown Water Society bourbon tasting meetings. For a practical visit, expect a downtown brewery with beer at the center, a wider beverage list than many taprooms, and a schedule that can range from a quiet stop to a busier community event day.

Stubborn German Brewing Co. operates in the heart of downtown Waterloo, Illinois, emphasizing German and American style lagers, stouts, and ales. The facility maintains 18 taps dedicated to freshly brewed beer, along with a substantial selection of canned products available for off-site consumption. Beyond beer production, the brewery features a large collection of bourbon and rye whiskey, signature cocktails, and wine, positioning it as a significant local purveyor of spirits. Stubbornfest, a year-round Marzen-style Oktoberfest beer, serves as the brewery's flagship offering. While the brewery does not maintain an in-house kitchen, patrons are permitted to bring in outside food or order delivery from local establishments. The venue hosts several recurring community events, including the annual Sausagefest in April, the primary Stubbornfest in October, and Black Beer Friday following Thanksgiving. Additionally, the premises include a rentable basement Speakeasy area and serve as a meeting location for local groups such as The FERM Homebrewing Club and The Brown Water Society bourbon tasting meetings.

Website available

119 S Main St, Waterloo, Illinois, 62298-1323

Phone: 618-504-2444

Website: http://www.stubborngermanbrewing.com

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday - 4:30pm – 10pm Friday - 3:00pm – 10pm Saturday - 12pm – 10pm Sunday - 12pm – 6pm

Popular Beers

A quick look at notable pours currently tied to Stubborn German Brewing Co.

Beer Styles at Stubborn German Brewing Co

Stubborn German Brewing Co brews across a range of styles. The current lineup includes Oktoberfest / Marzen. Specific pours rotate over time — check the taproom board on the day of your visit for what is currently available on tap.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming public events currently attached to this brewery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Stubborn German Brewing Co located?
Stubborn German Brewing Co is located at 119 S Main St, Waterloo, Illinois, 62298-1323. Use the map and directions on this page to plan your visit.
What are Stubborn German Brewing Co's hours?
Current hours are: Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday - 4:30pm – 10pm Friday - 3:00pm – 10pm Saturday - 12pm – 10pm Sunday - 12pm – 6pm. Hours can change on holidays and during private events — call ahead if your visit is time-sensitive.
How can I learn more about Stubborn German Brewing Co?
Visit http://www.stubborngermanbrewing.com for the brewery's own information about beers, events, and operations. Beer.Social aggregates public data and visitor-facing details to help with planning a stop.