Kindling Spirits & Grill

Cool log cabin liquor store. Talked with some older guy who seemed like he was trying to help, but didn’t really know what he was doing. Pretty decently selection, but Picks and Westroads in town are bigger and better by far. Also, this place is super expensive. Like, $2-3 more expensive per 6pack. Overall, it’s ok. When I was there, I didn’t really see anything that made me have to come back, but I’ll stop if I’m in the area though.

For being in the middle of nowhere in Southern Illinois, this place has a pretty good selection. The people there are very friendly, and I’ve generally found most of them to be fairly knowledgeable. They can get rather expensive pretty quickly, especially when buying singles, but it’s worth a stop in. They have a few on tap if you’re stopping in for a meal or lengthier shopping. And there is a drive-through, if you know exactly what you want.

This place has great ambiance and, for the most part, super friendly staff. Unfortunately, their staff really knows nothing about beer and refer to many craft beer offerings as "this stuff" or "this different stuff right here", etc... They are normally always willing to look something up or shoot the breeze with you and this is sometimes a very pleasant break from many more rushed places. This place’s downfall comes from their extreme prices and un-knowledgeable staff. I frequented this place for around 4 months before I finally gave up when a cashier tried to tell me that a mix-and-match 6-pack of Bell’s was going to be $30+ after tax. Two of the Bell’s were Two-Hearted Ales and Bell’s can be found WITH EASE anywhere in Southern Illinois. The most I have paid ANYWHERE else in the area for Bell’s was a $14.99 6pack of Hop Slam. I’d say $14.99 for a pack of one of Bell’s finest offerings is much better than $30 for some variations. In my opinion, if you’re in a bind and need a good beer then this is your spot. Be prepared for a 25% or MORE mark up on anything you buy but don’t expect a fellow beer geek to help you with suggestions.