Only Child Brewing | No Way Jose | Pale Ale | 5.3% ABV
Let’s be honest: after spending a year exploring the craft beer world, I’ve noticed we sometimes overcomplicate things. Beer is an everyday, blue-collar drink—enjoyable and approachable. Lately I’ve caught myself taking beer a bit too seriously, parsing tasting notes and IBUs when often the simplest reaction is the best: “That’s a good beer.”
No Way Jose from Only Child Brewing delivers that straightforward enjoyment. This pale ale is brewed with organic agave and lime zest, but don’t let those ingredients send you straight to beach-bottle associations. The lime is subtle and integrated rather than overpowering, and the agave adds a light, balancing touch. The result is a year-round, crushable ale that stands on its own without needing extra garnish or gimmicks.
This beer doesn’t rely on heavy fruitiness or exaggerated flavor tricks. Instead, it offers a clean, refreshing profile that makes it easy to reach for another. It’s the kind of beer you can sip on a warm afternoon and immediately appreciate without overthinking.
Thinking back to early summer, I wish I had discovered Gurnee’s craft beer scene sooner. There’s great beer beyond the Chicago city limits, and Only Child Brewing is a highlight. If you find yourself in the area, pair a visit to Great America or some bargain hunting at Gurnee Mills with a stop at this family-run brewery. The black-and-white decor adds character, and the atmosphere invites lingering over howlers or a pint.
If you’re looking for an approachable pale ale that feels at home wherever you drink it—backyard BBQ, post-ride cooldown, or a casual evening—No Way Jose is worth trying. It’s proof that a beer can be both thoughtfully crafted and simply enjoyable.
Plan a trip to Gurnee, explore the local attractions, and make time to visit this welcoming brewery. I’ll definitely be heading back for another round.