Pantagraph.com | Money | Brewery/restaurant Destihl opens at Shoppes

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

i love it wrote on Dec 12, 2007 7:59 PM:

" great restaurant "

response from idea wrote on Dec 12, 2007 7:55 PM:

" I never once said I was more cultured than the next person. I guess the fact that I hold an undergraduate degree from IWU and a graduate degree from ISU and the fact that I have traveled to many different countries doesn't account for much with you. Not to mention I have lived here for 17 years. In response to the other guy, I don't frequent the "fried food restaurants" because I support local restaurants such as Biaggi's, Destihl, etc... "

Why? wrote on Dec 10, 2007 10:21 PM:

" All the comments on this article are ridiculous. The city did not pay for this resturant to open for one thing! Why all the negative comments about other resturants? The resturants listed are all different and cater to different people. Be glad that there is alot to offer in this town. And there is much more to do than just eat- there is the collesium, the cultural center and different events all over this area. Broaden your horizens people! "

Please explain... wrote on Dec 10, 2007 7:44 PM:

" why several of you have insinuated that this restaurant was paid for by the city. As an investor, I wonder what happened to my money if Normal paid the bill. "

They have a great menu! wrote on Dec 10, 2007 6:51 PM:

" its about time that we had something other than the regular chain restaurants...don't know what it is about Btn-Normal, even with all the money, people like their buffets and bar food and cheap beer. There is nothing wrong in liking such food but there's enough of that in this area. This is a place for those who are looking for quality not quantity. Thanks for trying something new and upscale. "

Whatever wrote on Dec 10, 2007 2:32 PM:

" Why did the town pay for this? "

to: to...the idea wrote on Dec 10, 2007 1:54 PM:

" Why then don't the cultured set, those who do tend to have better taste buds, demand and support more good restaurants. Why do you, who obviously sees yourself as cultured, not only settle for but promote "fried chain restaurants"? "

to: ...the idea wrote on Dec 10, 2007 11:08 AM:

" before you make disparaging ("if you even know what that means") remarks toward those who live in Bloomington/Normal, you may want to consider the fact that you are living in a town with two universities. Most of the professors and families that are employed by these schools are much more cultured than even you (I know this will be hard for you to accept, but just swallow it down, anyway.) Many people in this town are world travelers who have seen and done a lot more than you, and are, in fact, aware of what you are referring to (Zagat's guide). Since you are such a wonderful culinary expert, do us all a favor and stay at home and whip up a Zagat 5-star quality meal for your perfect, thin children, while we are out enjoying our "fried chain restaurant" food. It would be a blessing to us all. "

More food please wrote on Dec 10, 2007 11:04 AM:

" VERY SMALL portions ruined the experience for me. Everything was great, but I only received three small pieces of cod. (no longer than my index finger) Now I don't need a all you can eat buffet and often take a doggie bag from the huge portions some places serve you, but the portions at Destihl were kiddie sized at a premium cost. I may try it again, but don't really know... "

beggin' wrote on Dec 10, 2007 9:33 AM:

" we need a buffet. Either a Ryans, Old Country, Hometown, or Bishops. Where are you people? "

Yum! wrote on Dec 10, 2007 9:24 AM:

" My husband and I ate there Friday night, and the food was awesome. I had the dijon chicken, and my husband had the pork chop. Can't wait to go back and try something else on the menu. "

Not if you're hungry wrote on Dec 10, 2007 8:05 AM:

" The menu is lacking. Since nothing jumped out as “yum”, it took us about 10 minutes to finally settle on something to order. He got the Potts Roast Sandwich (salty, not like mom used to make) and I the Beer Battered Cod (was as I had expected). Portions were small and we left hungry. Not quite worth the price tag or the wait. "

To: We Still wrote on Dec 9, 2007 5:49 PM:

" How about you just move to Peoria!! "

to: Disapointed wrote on Dec 9, 2007 10:24 AM:

" But you see, that why they offer a variety. Unlike you, I'll take freshly brewed beer anytime over the processed beer that you prefer because it's "cheaper" and "better". Along the same vein, I'll take a baked cake from my mother anytime over a factory cake I get at the local grocer. I like my ravioli from a good home made Italian restaurant much more than I like Chef Boyardee. It's just a matter of taste, and as long as we have a choice, that's what is important. "

Make no mistake wrote on Dec 9, 2007 9:37 AM:

" Duffy McKaws did not close due to a lack of capital. They closed because their food was DISGUSTING (can I get anything in this place without that muddy tasting jerk seasoning?) and the decor was cheap motel. "

BN Girl wrote on Dec 8, 2007 6:52 PM:

" Great addition to B/N! The food & atmosphere were a welcome change to the "usual" restaurants. A new favorite for me. Welcome to B/N Destihl! "

Disappointed wrote on Dec 8, 2007 4:04 PM:

" Just came back from Destihls. Two beers (Normal and Hefeweizen) not available on a Saturday afternoon? Seems a little upscale compared to other micros we gone to in St. Louis, Chicago, and Indy. I'll stay with locals places like Maggies and Fat Jacks. Though they don't brew their own, better beers at more reasonable prices. "

Great wrote on Dec 8, 2007 12:44 PM:

" My husband and I went to Desthil last night and loved it! The atmosphere, food, and beer was great. It is so nice to have a classy modern restaurant open here in town that is not a major chain. Kudos to Matt Potts! "

Thankfully!! wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:48 PM:

" I'm am thankful that the world is not run by whiners. Good luck in your future whiney world while the rest of us enjoy life. If you don't like a place, no matter what the place is, don't go. But why try to make my decisions for me. I'll tell you what, I'll make my own decisions and form my own opinions. Go back to the Judy Dome articles to do your whining. "

It's yours wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:50 PM:

" Enjoy it, you all paid for it. They didn't "

mmmm....beer wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:22 AM:

" i had a beer(s) at the Olive Garden once...oh no! this town is becoming all alcoholics!!!! "

b wrote on Dec 6, 2007 10:23 AM:

" this cracks me up! people it is JUST a new restaurant. why not go there check it out and then make your decision. sit back, relax, and enjoy a beer... jeez louise aren't there bigger things in life to worry about then a new restaurant that serves adult beverages! "

. . .the idea wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:02 AM:

" . . . . why don't some of you actually try cooking your own meals at home instead of taking your kids out to these deep-fried chain restaurants and contributing to the fattening of America. If for some reason that's just not going to work, then after the Saturday night H.S. sports even, the Sunday morning mass followed by watching NASCAR and drinking cheap, horrible tasting beer (no offense to either), get out of your cookie-cutter house and go support good local restaurants like Destihl and Biaggi's. They are not Zagat (if you even know what that is) 5 star restaurants by any means, but they are good restaurants that provide better quality food and drink than the deep-fried chain restaurants that rule this town. Don't be afraid to think just a little, itsy, bitsy, bit outside of the box Borington, I mean Bloomington! "

Not Impressed wrote on Dec 5, 2007 9:04 PM:

" Our family tried this newest restaurant last Sunday, and were not impressed. The "double dog" tasted of propane and the "Potts roast beef sandwich" was like over cooked "steak-ums". The mashed potatoes that accompanied the sandwich were equally....blah. Our server was not too interested when we shared that we weren't too impressed, and was shocked that we didn't want a box for ALL of the leftovers. Sorry, this one is crossed of our list. "

A dummy sez: wrote on Dec 5, 2007 7:07 PM:

" I have waited until the firestorm was out to post a comment. First of all, I confess that I was too dumb to pick up on the wordplay of the name. I kept saying "duh-steel", "duh-STEEL". I guess that was a hang over (pun intended) from diction class in music school. Secondly, I didn't realize that beer was duh-stilled. I thought you just threw the stuff in a tub, let it rot, then drank it. I think people in prison do this with apple peels and stuff in K-mart bags. All of this suggests that the lawyer turned restauranter is a whole lot smarter than I. All the best to him, but count me out. I like my licker distilled. Cheers! "

To We Still... wrote on Dec 5, 2007 2:32 PM:

" Yeah...that's real smart to spend your money in Peoria. Way to support your local B-N business and economy!! "

INCREDIBLE!!!! wrote on Dec 4, 2007 2:27 PM:

" Why are all these Nay-sayers putting down the newest, and most likely, best restaurant B/N has to offer. As someone who worked closely with the entire management team of the Destihl during their opening, I am excited to see them finally open their doors. I have spoken with them about the food and the beers, and I personally cannot wait to eat there. Give them a chance before you start planning their closing. "

We Still wrote on Dec 4, 2007 6:53 AM:

" spend most of our time and money in Peoria. Many more intersesting restaurants and shopping choices. It really isn't a bad drive from our North Normal home. "

People please! wrote on Dec 3, 2007 5:05 PM:

" For the "SF hang out" nay sayers, could it be that there are 17,000 SF employees and yes, even they like to leave their house and offices every now and then. And for those of you that think there's SO much to do in this town lets look at it- you can go to a movie, after eating dinner. You can go ice skating, and then eat dinner. You can have a picnic in the park once you stop and pick up dinner. You can shop, and stop for something to eat. You can golf, but then go eat and have a beer. You can tour SF Corporate, or MMMA, or Beich- and then go have a drink because that's really boring! Seems to me that eating is a necessity so why blame a guy for trying. Frankly- it's nice to have another option. Those who don't want to drink in front of the kiddies- don't take them or don't go. Those who want to smoke- guess you have to go outside or quit. Those who hate everything- it's best you not leave your house! "

to Cool wrote on Dec 3, 2007 4:26 PM:

" Yeah great for a local guy to prosper, oh wait at your expense of course. You know the town paid for it? and it is just a SF hang out? If it goes belly up they don't care. "

HeHe wrote on Dec 3, 2007 4:11 PM:

" What do they care if it works out or not? The town of Normal paid for it. Until there SF buddies get tired of it, lilke in the blink of an eye, it will stay open. "

cost? wrote on Dec 3, 2007 1:25 PM:

" how much do they charge for a pint of one of their micro-brews? "

to insulted: wrote on Dec 3, 2007 12:38 PM:

" what is there to do in this town besides eat and shop?????????!!!!!!!!!! "

to: Cool wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:36 AM:

" The enclosed mall trend is over. That's a 60'ish concept now. "

to: al wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:33 AM:

" You're wrong. Support for the restaurant will not come from the Hampton alone, but from other hotels as well, and most importantly, the community. Furthermore, the Hampton is no dive, and it's customers who travel are surely exposed to more than the bud and burger fare. "

One man's poison... wrote on Dec 3, 2007 8:21 AM:

" It looks like some people like this new restaurant and other's don't like it. Gosh, that sounds like every other restaurant in town. Believe it or not; no restaurant will cater to every single person's tastes. Some are too pricey, some too spicy. Some too loud, some too quiet. Some too diverse in food selections, some too limited. Some too gourmet, some too peanut butter-n-jelly. In a community our size, we should have a large variety of restaurants, and this place adds to that variety. If you don't like this restaruant, go elsewhere. If you do like it, then enjoy it. "

Hey Matt wrote on Dec 3, 2007 8:05 AM:

" Don't worry about O'Daffey (letter to the editor). Your main sins are you are an entrpreneur, capitalist, and you work. That's anathema man to the intelligencia. However, if you happened to take a city handout to startup then you have a degree of redemption. "

Anchor wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:14 AM:

" I wish B/N had more Mom and Pop joints. I am sick of eating a chain restaurants. "

To: al - Frm:Anchor wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:11 AM:

" I disagree. Bloomington/Normal goes CRAZY over anything new or different. Heck, when Krispy Kream came to town people LOST THEIR MINDS! This guy is going to "pull in" big. Mark my words. B/N is so 'Chicago-want-to-be' they'll eat this place up. "

very good wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:03 PM:

" This is certainly a new favorite. The beer is very good, as is the food. It is a little more expensive then some places and a little less then others. Over all I would say you get exactly what you pay for. I very pleased to see a new unique place in Normal I think that they will do very well. As for the people bashing here this place is not for you obviously that does not mean that you need to fly off the handle. Some of us like something a little more upscale that serves a bold menu. If it is over priced for you, remember that their is somewhere over priced for everyone. As for me I like this place and will be a nice place to goto after work. "

al wrote on Dec 2, 2007 11:41 AM:

" pure genious, an upscale bar next to a hampton..give it six months till he realizes the folly and that to make it work he will need bud and burgers. "

Cool wrote on Dec 2, 2007 9:07 AM:

" Like other said, it's great to see a more local place get a chance to prosper. Of course the Shoppes outdoor mall concept is an extremely poor idea, no matter how you slice it. "Hey! Let's create an outdoor mall in the midwest where it snows, rains, and gets way below zero! That way, business will be well below normal and we'll have to raise our leasing rates to drive the smaller ones out!" Total, complete, and unqualified idiotic decision made by a bunch of fools, approved by a bunch of bigger fools, who should have known better. "

Impressed wrote on Dec 1, 2007 11:41 PM:

" My new favorite place! I went with a group of friends for happy hour. The service was great, the food fantastic, and the ambiance . . . the best in town! Congratulations on the opening of a wonderful new establishment in Normal. BTW, I drink "wimpy beer" and I loved it. "

to: Beer lover wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:42 PM:

" Funny you mention that. I'm opening a beer joint featuring only Bush Lite..... you know, kind of a mecca for beer lovers from throughout the world...right here in B/N. Just some of the posters on this board, and their friends of taste, should be enough to keep me in the black. "

Dan wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:19 PM:

" I went there for lunch on Thursday and the place is fantastic. I'm a quite a craft beer fan and and for the most part I was very happy with the beer. The Hefewiezen and Java Oatmeal Stout were absolutely fantastic. The mild and IPA were not brewed to the syle I normally like though the girlfriend really liked the IPA. The menu is very innvovative and the food was fantastic. The Brewmaster pizza was amazing. I lvoed everything about the place, except the Growlers are overpriced. Most breweries for 8-11 dollars you get a half gallon of beer. Here you get the "

Home Brewer wrote on Dec 1, 2007 3:09 PM:

" I home brew and am excited to go try what this place offers. I believe people who have commented that the beer is terrible are just upset because it doesn't taste like Bud Light. Cry me a river. "

Beer lover wrote on Dec 1, 2007 3:05 PM:

" Do they have Busch Lite? "

If there were a lot of things to do... wrote on Dec 1, 2007 7:54 AM:

" ...in the twin cities, we wouldn't be wasting all our time bashing each other on pantagraph.com, now would we? "

to: in my opinion wrote on Nov 30, 2007 8:01 PM:

" I would assume that you are so used to green beer (like the old Bush Bavarian for example), beer that is rushed, that real beer takes you by surprise. What chemical beer is your favorite? "

to pants wrote on Nov 30, 2007 1:05 PM:

" Biaggi's is a franchise - yes. But that is because it had such tremendous success at its first location - here in Bloomington. Kudos to places that take a chance in Bloomington and make it work! "

Pants wrote on Nov 30, 2007 12:19 PM:

" All of you people who are appluading this unique, non-franchise restaraunt should do some more research before you shoot your mouth off. This place has ties to Biaggia's....guess what Biaggi's is? A FRANCHISE!!! On a different note I have visited this establishment and while I truly enjoyed the beer, and the decor, I did not like the menu. I agree that unless the menu changes drastically, Destihl is closed in less than two years. And before some of you wannabe elitists bash my tastes, I lived almost my entire life in Chicago and frequently visited some of the finest eateries in the town, both suburbs and city. "

Good Job wrote on Nov 30, 2007 10:53 AM:

" Bloomington is an icon of chain and franchise restaurants, but not enough distinctive ones. Now we have real beer and good food. Welcome Destihl. "

Destihl Fan wrote on Nov 30, 2007 9:29 AM:

" I've been to this restaurant 3 times in the last 2 weeks. Bloomington-Normal needed something like this and Matt Potts and the fantastic staff that he put together serves up what us "uppity" folks in BN have been looking for. The menu has a lot of class and creativity and even the pickiest vegetarian friend that dined with me at lunch the other day found something that she loved! Kudos to Matt and staff and keep up the good work! As for all the bashers out here on the blogs - seriously get a life, open your mind, try something new, you might be surprised! "

Adam wrote on Nov 30, 2007 9:11 AM:

" One of the most disappointing things I found about moving to the twin cities 6 years ago is that this is area is not a place where small businesses thrive very well. I am glad to see some new, bold attempts. "

to insulted and ntt wrote on Nov 30, 2007 1:33 AM:

" ok geniuses, tell us exactly what there is to do in this town that is so entertaining? Shopping? get that anywhere. Golfing? Not everyone's thing. Go to something at the coliseum? We all see how well THAT is working out. OOOH, we had a chance to go to the racetrack several years ago, but Judy decided that was too "blue collar" for this town. Tell us exactly what there is to do here, and then tell us what most people do before going out to an event. Here's a clue: THEY GO EAT SOMEWHERE!! And now Mr Potts has provided a new place to do that. "

Things in B-N? wrote on Nov 28, 2007 12:47 PM:

" Mr. Potts grew up on a farm and has spent a lot of time in Elmwood. B-N is the most "exciting" place he's lived, but he's not blind. There just isn't a whole lot of things to do here. How is that an insult? We should be happy that he is trying to help out. I wish people who say there is plenty to do here would provide a list here. Do we have a choice of professional Broadway plays every night in this town? How about every other week? Do we have art museums with Picasso's, Monet's, etc. hanging in them? How about we go down to the river and go boating? Maybe we can try some middle eastern food? Instead, I'll go to the professional sports game or the big concert that is stopping through our town. I'm not complaining about B-N - just taking issue with someone who thinks there is already plenty to do here. For those that claim that this new restaurant is "uppity", I really hope so - that's the point. "

To "Response to: "To Insulted & NTT"" wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Oh get off your high horse, you are the type who likes to look for hidden stuff, you are one of those "the man is out to get me type of people" I have worked with many peopel like you and thank god you won't be going to Destihl you would be the one to ruin it for the rest "

To Insulted & NTT wrote on Nov 28, 2007 10:38 AM:

" I guess all of you who were so hurt by his comment are fine enjoying overpriced hamburgers and crudely cooked steaks drowning in overseasoned BBQ sause. So be it; have fun perpetuating the banal and exploitive existance of a fast-food culture. I for one am happy to have a fun, exciting place in town which champions the art of food and beverage creation. If attention to detail & quality is insulting, then go head Destihl, insult away. "

Response to: "To Insulted & NTT" wrote on Nov 28, 2007 8:43 AM:

" I don't think INSULTED is misreading anything. Mr. Potts made a broad negative statement about the B-N community. His comment is what it is. And I'm a person in the demographic that frequents the type of establishment Mr. Potts has opened. But because of his comments you won't find anywhere near his. "

To: In Japan's List wrote on Nov 28, 2007 1:29 AM:

" Naw, I think it's time to switch my diet from fishy and salty to beefy and fatty. ;p Also, I have not heard of this Paisanos...I'll have to try that out too. I tire of mayo and corn pizza. "

To Insulted & NTT wrote on Nov 27, 2007 10:19 PM:

" I believe you are misreading a truly benign statement. For the size of our combined communities, you have to admit that we like our restaurants and collectively do not value much in the way of alternative entertainment. As you can independently verify, our local commercial demographics illustrate that we have an extremely high percapita restaurant patronage relative to the size of our community. It seems as though Mr. Potts simply took advantage of an obvious opportunity in an attempt to provide a unique establishment which caters to our, as well as his own desires. Thus, he is not insulting us, he is simply pointing out our collective character. This establishment certainly takes B-N dining to another level, and it surely stands beyond the boarders of the mundane. In fact, it defiantly stands up against just that as if to say "we will not stand for the perpetuation of mediocrity which has for so long defined this community's dining experience!" (with the exception of Lucca's and Central Station) "

dont drink the water wrote on Nov 27, 2007 9:54 PM:

" i hate IBC downtown , desthil is a great addition except for their beer its no good "

INSULTED!!! wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:59 PM:

" I agree with "New To Town". This guy just insulted the entire community of Bloomington/Normal. "In a town where there’s not much else to do besides dining..." Puhlease....there are plenty of quality things to do in our community that don't involve dining. And after reading his comments I'll definitely be choosing to participate in those instead of eating at this restaurant. And if he thinks these kind of comments are going to make the community want to frequent his establishment...well, he's sadly mistaken. And opening a restaurant/brewery isn't rocket science...I hate to tell you, Mr. Potts, but your restaurant's format is nothing new...it's been done many times over. I'm just glad he showed himself upfront before I spent any of my time or money in his restaurant. With his attitude and his restaurant's uncreative format I give it 24 months at the most before the doors close. "

New To Town wrote on Nov 27, 2007 5:38 PM:

" "'In a town where there’s not much else to do besides dining, we wanted to really give people a place where they could have a dining experience' I was rooting for the guy until I read this. It's wise not to insult the city you need to support your business. It's OK to brag about your product but show some humility and talk about how you wish to complement other attractions. Don't act like you're coming in to teach the local yokels something. "

Local wrote on Nov 27, 2007 5:16 PM:

" I just hope they don't squash Central Station or the Lucca... two truly local one of a kind restaurants in depressed areas then need more traffic. This "brew Pub" sounds like the first unit of a chain restaurant and not a one of a kind restaurant with only local market aspirations. "

love my beer wrote on Nov 27, 2007 5:13 PM:

" Whats wrong with you people. If you dont like it take your kids to Taco bell, McDonalds, or Steak-n-shake. Most places that serve steak and chicken serves beer also. Outback, Lonestar, TGI Fridays, etc.... Heck I can even enjoy a beer at Mings with my chinese. Give it a rest...I home brew (beer and wine) and will be visting Destihl this saturday. And the less whining kids there the better....HA! "

Re: In my opinion wrote on Nov 27, 2007 5:04 PM:

" Go visit a comparable place like Rock Bottom or Goose Island and you would see that these are more of restaurants and don't have huge bars. "

What's this?! wrote on Nov 27, 2007 4:39 PM:

" Someone trying to steal big chain and brand name beer money?! BLASPHEMY! You're all sinners! "

homer simpson wrote on Nov 27, 2007 4:35 PM:

" mmmmm nachos and beer "

some menu wrote on Nov 27, 2007 4:22 PM:

" I don't know why people are bashing the menu. I just looked at in on line and they have everything under the sun. Oh wait, we're in B/N. All we eat are cheeseburgers and chicken fingers. Never mind. Horrible menu. No chicken fingers. "

Proof wrote on Nov 27, 2007 4:04 PM:

" You've all just proved it is over priced for the area. I wouldn't be bragging up the prices. "

Towny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 4:03 PM:

" Isn't there a micro brewry down town? Why don't you all go there? "

Pastafarian wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:58 PM:

" I for one am very happy Destihl has opened up. We need more upscale eateries in this town. I am also all for constructive criticism, like Big City Girl was giving. A restaurant will never survive if it does not listen to customers. As for the dangers of drinking, yes, drunk drivers definitely pose a risk. However, and this is my conjecture, more accidents are caused by aggressive and inattentive driving than by drinking. Doesn't excuse DUIs though. Frankly, I am more concerned with the people zooming out of Eastview on a Sunday than with the patrons of Destihl. "

J wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:40 PM:

" Drinking beer is not contrary to family values. I like to hang out with my wife and kids in the backyard, cooking out, throwing the football around, many times while having an adult beverage. I don’t hide it from my kids, and it certainly does not harm them. They will grow up around it as I did, learn about the dangers of excess drinking from school, and learn from me that responsible drinking is part of being a responsible adult. They will then choose as I did whether or not to partake as an adult. Not everyone who drinks is a menace to society. I spend time with my family, don’t run around on my wife, AND I drink beer. I will be stopping by Destihl for a brew and a meal. "

Bear Essentials wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:33 PM:

" Just another uppity place in Uppity Normal and the shops on college and towanda..pricey, pricey, and even pricier...been there done that and the food is not much better than any other place in town...so now I can get beer for $4.50 microbrewed whoopy...let us have gambling and then we will look like Vegas or Atlantic City....go rest ye on the mountain of a new Sonic or IN-OUT Burger..we got Maid Rite...so this is just another place for the people to show their snobiness and eliteness that they are better than the working folk "

Steve wrote on Nov 27, 2007 3:04 PM:

" "re: Its funny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:12 PM: " Last time I checked, I won't get liver cancer from sitting next to you at the restaurant while you drink a beer. Hmmmmmm..........if you don't see or understand that difference I apologize and wish you the best. " He may not hurt your liver, but he could be drunk and run you over and kill not only you but your whole family in one instant. Think about that one!!!!!!!! Drinking doesn't only harm the individuals liver! "

Henny Penny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:59 PM:

" I especially like the youneek spelling. My husband and I home brew and love to try new beers. I can't wait to go for a date night. "

Bandana's wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:55 PM:

" Does anyone know: Why are they closed? Are they going to re-open? "

Pants wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:22 PM:

" My wife and I went to this place last night. The beer was pretty good and the 2 appetizers that we shared were very tasty, however the menu was not very impressive. While the items were very unique I was not impressed. Not a very wide selection to choose from. For the person who said Biaggi's is over priced, we paid $30 for 1 beer, 1 glass of wine, and 2 appetizers. The portions were not the best either. We left and went to Biaggi's for dinner. I'll go back to try the different beer, but I won't be eating there any time soon. "

Check the mgt staff wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:02 PM:

" Think John Schmitt will show up there? Everyone better keep one eye open and start boycotting as soon as he shows up!! Wouldn't want to give them a fair chance at making it work. "

Big City Boy wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:00 PM:

" Sorry but an hour wait for a $12 sandwich is nothing to get excited about. I'm not in Chicago. "

A Friend wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:54 PM:

" As long as Mr Potts doesn't hire the former manager of Duffy McKaw's and Ned Kelly's he might have a chance. I'm still fuming how that guy ruined 2 restaurants and cheated the employees. "

To: Big city girl wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:51 PM:

" You must not be from the big city because these prices are in line with the other microbreweries in the state (Flossmoor Station, Harrisons, Talyor Street, Govnor's, Goose Island, Flatlanders, Emmett's, Brass, Blue Cat, Walter Payton's Roundhouse, The Onion, Prairie Rock, Mickey Finn's and even the now defunct Crooked Waters). I have been to all of these and find Walter Payton's Roundhouse the best which is definately not cheap. "

MJL wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:44 PM:

" Very cool place, but their root beer is terrible. Said they still need to work out the recipe, but sheesh they shouldn't serve it if it's not ready. Don't they watch Top Chef? "

hmm. wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:38 PM:

" Great - another place for drinking. I drink enough as is, don't we have enough bars in this town? Rather than letting a movie theature sell an occassional brew to few patrons lets open another establishment that fully devotes itself to the cause. "

family places wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:23 PM:

" Chucky Cheese serves beer. How many of you take your kids there and then get on here and are bashing this place because it serves beer. "

re: Its funny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:12 PM:

" Last time I checked, I won't get liver cancer from sitting next to you at the restaurant while you drink a beer. Hmmmmmm..........if you don't see or understand that difference I apologize and wish you the best. "

Biaggis wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:10 PM:

" Still rules...sorry all of you Olive Garden folk!!! "

To Big City Girl wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:02 PM:

" What are you blathering about? "

To Pantagraph wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:59 PM:

" Could you please stop allowing comments on here. I can't get any work done. All I do is read these all day and laugh. Then, I drive home after "work" and wonder which ones are the freaks. "

Big city girl wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:37 PM:

" Where are the chefs trained? At that price point I want a Culinary Institute. More than one restaurant is a chain. Selling kegs and hardgoods soon?... I would like to see a changing menu of seasonal flights instead for my gas bill. I would rather they went for a downtown location in a place that did not have such similar places accross the street like the Elmwood. This spurns growth to communities not just investors. In Champaign I have to wonder which restaurant are they going to bump, and how many bad meals will I have to endure before the competition falls. Do they have folks who can pair food with beer? Just remember folks - good service depends on honest feedback. Despite any critcial thought I still can't wait to try it. "

Great place! wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:29 PM:

" My husband and I went to Destihl on Saturday and waited an hour for a table...but it was well worth it! The food was amazing and the beer was very good too! While I enjoy many of the chain restaurants in town, it's nice to have some non-chain places with their own flair around as well. I think this place is going to be a hit! "

Ha wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:16 PM:

" It is not independent, the city of Normal built it, or atleast paid for it. Why is everyone sticking up for this place but not any other independent place. I hate chains but that is all you people normally want. Oh it's the beer, of course. Great family place. "

TO the end is near wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:44 AM:

" I know what you mean! what next? people wanting to smoke in bars? who da thunk it? "

Costanza wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:31 AM:

" My wife and I... I'll call her "Susan" ...went last week and it was great! Good food, not the typical fare. "

Jason wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:19 AM:

" Why does this article have a Bloomington "dateline" on it when the restaurant is in Normal? And for those considered by the smoking ban, perhaps you have forgotten that all of Illinois goes smoke-free on January 1. You'll just have to do your coffin nails outside. "

Great Restaurant wrote on Nov 27, 2007 11:06 AM:

" Tried it and it was great... Food, Beed and Service all were fantastic. Tihs is going to be a hit! "

beer bashers wrote on Nov 27, 2007 10:37 AM:

" The place is a brewery...people aren't going to go to get "hammered". People will go to enjoy the home brewed beer. Get a clue, and give it a chance. "

One of the good guys... wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:53 AM:

" I think it's fantastic to see another independent place like this.. enough with Applebee's and Noodles. I want REAL food! "

Pasino's wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:51 AM:

" Is SO good! Great pizza! Oh man... give it a try. "

In Japan's List wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:27 AM:

" Kobe, Kobe, Kobe, Kobe, Desthil, Kobe, Kobe "

Great wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:27 AM:

" "In a town where there’s not much else to do besides dining...." We wanted to get you drunk and bring your kids. It's not our money. "

ummm wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:01 AM:

" "The restaurant is designed to cater to a variety of customers, from business people to families" Taking your kids to a place that has beer-thats family values for ya. Teaching your kids "its okay to drink beer" But don't let Tommy and Sally see you smoking because that is just OH SO WRONG! *rolls eyes* "

Another In My Opinion wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:59 AM:

" Biaggi's has always been over priced and overrated. And to those nay-sayers out there, why not give this place a try? It's right on your way home from State Farm. Oh wait, that's right, you guys got smoking banned at bars and didn't start going out to them more, probably will do the same with this place. "

Note to B-N'ers wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:58 AM:

" If you are ever thinking about opening up a new restaurant, you better serve alcohol or people will won't give your place a chance. The blogs for Paisano's were aweful. Bloggers were trashing the place before it even opened. Meatheads, those blogs were the same talking about how it is not a chain restaurant it will never survive. But a place that is not a chain opens up that specializes in Beer, you guys are all over it. Pathetic. "

Its funny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:55 AM:

" how when Paisano's opened, a majority of people were bashing it because it was not a chain restaurant. But, when a new place opens that specializes in beer opens, everyone is excited. On a site note: I love how society is so quick to judge those who smoke, but places that serve alcohol are welcomed- i mean damaging your liver is so much better. And drinking at a restaurant, increasing your chances of driving drunk is acceptable- i mean omg heaven forbid people should smoke, but drinking is A- okay!? "

Watch for cops! wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:16 AM:

" .08-won't take long!! Good luck, Mr Potts! "

In Japan wrote on Nov 27, 2007 12:57 AM:

" Oooh, sounds neat! I wish this place the best of luck. I'm coming home for Christmas and I have made a list of all the places I am eating at when I get home. I think I'll add this to the list. "

not impressed wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:49 PM:

" crappy, hidden location, especially since they are never going to finish Towanda Ave "

in my opinion wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:48 PM:

" First of all Biaggi's never reigned in Bloomington-Normal, are you crazy! Why do you think Troy left to co-own this place! I have been to Destihl twice; the atmosphere is awesome as well as the service. Unfortunately, the menu leaves a lot to be desired. I would think that a brewery would have a decent sized bar, which is NOT the case. The wait staff walks right through the bar area to get to the kitchen, horrible lay out. I tried every beer and was extremely let down. The after taste of the beer was dreadful! "

Good Luck wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:19 PM:

" I hope everyone gives this operation a chance. They sound like they have a creative flair and are doing things the right way. Hopefully they are well capitalized to stay afloat longer than Duffy Mackaws and some other non-chain places that have opened recently. In that vein, also support the Redfire Grille, which is another independent that is unique and has some class. "

It is fantastic! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:27 PM:

" WOW! I ate lunch at Destihl today. It was unbelievable! This will be the new place to dine in B/N. The rein of Biaggi's is over. Best of luck to the Destihl team. You have a real winner!! "

Awesome! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:24 PM:

" I can't wait to go. It's great to see something besides another chain eatery. I plan to make this my regular spot! "

MikeMan wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:16 PM:

" Thank you sir for starting a business in the community,taking a risk, growing the economy and creating jobs. "

120 days wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:51 PM:

" thats what I give them. Wanna bet? "

The end is near... wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:05 PM:

" Beer in a RESTAURANT???? SINFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pretty soon people will be wanting to drink beer at the movies. What is this town coming to? "

Todd wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:14 PM:

" I personally like Rock Bottom Brewery and Gordon Biersch, so I am looking forward to trying this place. "

Fantastic Place wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:32 PM:

" We went there and the food, beer, service, atmosphere is FANTASTIC. Really nice to see a great restaurant in town, keep up the good work!! "

to: Cant wait wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:04 PM:

" I also will go by this weekend...Also check out Fat Jacks and Illinois Brewing in downtown Bloomington. IB is across from the colesium and FJ's is a couple blocks north of the court house on the east side of street. Great beer's. "

MKV wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:51 PM:

" Congratulations to the team at DeStihl and Matt Potts! What a great team you have put together. The food and Beer is top notch. The atmosphere is really great and I am looking forward to many meals and beers in this location. Hey everybody, a locally owned restaurant. WE are very fortunate to have Matt and his group and the investors open this in this commmunity. He could have gone anywhere. Way to go! "

Just another country girl wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:29 PM:

" That's awesome! I'm glad to heard a brewery has opened up. Other towns seem to have their own and they're really nice and fun to visit. I'll definately be checking it out soon. Good luck to Matt Potts! "

TO: Just a Guy wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:22 PM:

" You're too funny, but I agree totally with what you've said. LOL! "

Just another country girl wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:21 PM:

Can't wait wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:16 PM:

" going there this week, been looking forward to a home brew since I heard of this place. "

Just A Guy wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:56 PM:

" Look, everyone, a restaurant opened that is NOT a chain restaurant. Too bad most of you will just see the words "restaurant" or "beer" or "brewery" and make unneeded comments about chain restaurants, not enough family venues and people becoming alcoholics because a restaurant dares serve adult beverages. "