In 1870, Herman Berghoff arrived in the United States from Germany at the age of 17. Over the years, he proved himself to be an excellent entrepreneur, growing the popularity of the brewery, fighting Prohibition by brewing “near-beer” and Bergo soda pops (root beer), and turning his rejection for participation in Chicago’s World Fair into an opportunity by setting up a beer station just outside the Fair. Today, his name is most well-known for the 120-year-old historic establishment in Chicago, The Berghoff Restaurant.
In celebration of The Berghoff’s 120th anniversary and as a nod to its adventurous roots, The Berghoff decided to bring the family art of brewing beer in house.
"We like to think we're coming full circle," says Pete Berghoff, Herman Berghoff’s great grandson. "We feel The Berghoff is a special place filled with family and Chicago history. Why not really incorporate our roots?"