The Berghoff on Route 66 on Adams in downtown Chicago

The Berghoff Restaurant opened in 1898, after Herman Berghoff”s beer stand at the 1893 World’s Fair became very popular. It first offered free sandwiches with the purchase of a nickel beer. During prohibition, it became known for its authentic German food. When Prohibition was lifted, Herman was able to procure the city’s first ever liquor license, opening up The Berghoff Bar while still running the restaurant. The building is located at 17 W. Adams St. which is on Route 66. Not only was it a popular establishment for locals, but it was also a favorite destination for Route 66 travelers.

Continue walking west along Adams, one block west is the famous German Restaurant, Berghoff's. Don't miss its neon sign.

black and white, 1930s, people walking sidewalk, truck with meat sign reads PRIZE BEEF, for the Berghoff restaurant, seen behind it

17 West Adams. This restaurant has been owned and operated by the Berghoff family since it opened back in 1898. Herman Berghoff emigrated from Germany to America in 1870, and among other things, he opened his own beer brewery in Indiana. He moved to Chicago in 1893 to sell his beer at the Chicago World Fair, and it went so well that he moved here to W Adams St. in 1898.

Berghoff neon sign and beyond to the right the "Sears" Tower in Chicago, Illinois