Enjoy A Beer And A Burger Inside An 1800s-era Church In Illinois

Churches have been hosting potlucks for almost 100 years. It is believed the tradition began in the 1930s during the Great Depression. I know Jesus turned water into wine but I didn't think there would be a day to enjoy a beer and a burger in the chapel of a church, guilt-free. Turns out there is a place in Illinois to do that and the visuals are remarkable.

Imagine enjoying dinner and some drinks and looking up at this ceiling.

That specific view appears to be inside a meeting area or private area. Don't worry because there are plenty of similar views throughout the building. According to Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery's website, the church was built in 1889. The architect, W. W. Boyington for this award-winning building is the same person responsible for Chicago's iconic Water Tower.

"Eat Well and Drink Better Beer!"

The menus are slightly different between the Peoria and Springfield, Illinois locations for Obed & Isaacs but both include pub burgers, "signature" flatbread pizzas, pub burgers, and (of course) horseshoes - a signature Springfield food.

I'm not 100% sure which burger this is but I'm all in on it. Its beauty is as great as what you'll see inside the eatery.

The architecture inside is well worth seeing in person no matter where you are in Illinois. Even if you're in Wisconsin or Iowa you might want to plan a trick to Peoria for this. The church was built as a Presbyterian church over 100 years ago but you'll still find stunning stained glass and woodwork.

On the interior, dark wood beams, detailed ceilings and other decorative woodwork combine with ornate limestone column capitols.

Look at some of these views.

There is no arguing the spectacular craftsmanship inside this building at 321 NE Madison Ave in Peoria. Who cares about how close the spot is to the riverfront? Pour me a drink, bless me with that food, and let me just gaze at every detail of this place.

If you want to talk about feeling the right vibe during lunch or dinner, this place will provide the best without question.

When the weather is suitable there's an outdoor beer garden for guests to congregate and enjoy each other's company. I feel like I would need to visit Obed and Isaac's in Peoria a few times before passing up being inside. I mean, just look at this view of this craft beer.

Unlike churches, Obed and Isaac's Peoria location is closed on Sunday (and Monday) but open the rest of the week. Check out more photos of the restaurant.