Tinley's Flipside Brewing, The Open Bottle Bring Back Frogger Lager

TINLEY PARK, IL — Tinley Park's Flipside Brewing and The Open Bottle are kicking it old school, with the return of a beer brewed after a classic arcade game.

Frogger Lager, named for the iconic Frogger video game, is back for a second stint, released fresh Friday. The beer is a collaboration between Flipside owner Erik Pizer, and The Open Bottle and its owners Patrick and Julia Bisch.

"Patrick, Julia and I have known each other a long time, we’ve always wanted to do something together," Pizer told Patch.

They put their heads together and came up with the lager, a Helles with a hint of zesty lime, Pizer said. With a 4.7% ABV, Pizer said it hits the spot as a light beer. They wanted to get a jump start on the season, so they're releasing it May 24.

"It’s nice and refreshing and summery," Pizer said.

The two businesses—just a jaunt across 183rd street apart—have also planned a themed fun run for Sunday, June 9. In tribute to the object of the original game—to direct five frogs to their homes by dodging traffic on a busy road, then crossing a river by jumping on floating logs and alligators—they've laid out a family-friendly course bridging the two spots.

"We mapped out a whole race course, had a little fun with it," Pizer said. With adult supervision, kids are encouraged to participate.

Frogger lagar is available at Flipside Brewing, 7144 183rd St., and both the TInley Park (7101 W 183rd St.) and Lockport (16437 W. 159th St.) locations of The Open Bottle.

Pizer is pumped for the release, the start of a busy weekend for Flipside. The Flipside Bazaar, hosted by the Streetz Artz Alliance, returns Sunday, May 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Flipside Brewing’s Burger of the Month, the "Chorizo Burger," will be featured during the event. The burger consists of two beef-chorizo blend patties, Oaxaca cheese, refried beans, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Pair it with their latest beer release, the Golden Snozzberry, a 5% ABV Golden Ale infused with strawberries and vanilla.

"We took a 5% ABV Golden Ale, added some strawberries & vanilla to bring you this delicious treat!" said Flipside Brewing on their website.

Fourteen vendors are lined up for the artisan market, with items ranging from handmade soaps to eco-conscious pet toys made from upcycled materials by Chomp Monsters to decorative truffles and fudge by Now That's Fudge & Sweets.

The event is family-friendly, free to attend, and suitable for all ages. Ample, free parking is available on-site.

The bazaar is one of several the brewery will hold this year, Pizer said.

Patio Seating Coming Soon

Pizer is excited to begin work on temporary patio seating, with the Village's permission. He plans to create the space in the parking lot, cordoning off several spaces, adding some tables, chairs, and umbrellas. He's eager to firm up plans, and hopes to have that completed as soon as possible.

"... A little bit of outdoor space to enjoy a burger and a beer," Pizer said.