Lucidi Distilling Co., Peoria

It's not always popular with the community when someone decides to repurpose a historic building. But Christopher Lucidi has done it with respect to everyone involved. Upon making the former Fire Station No. 1 the new home of his eponymous distillery, he's changed what he's needed to, but kept what should be kept. The facade is the same—save for a shiny new sign that, yes, still says Fire Station No. 1—and the inside is a love letter to the first responders who once filled it. Logos from local fire departments brand handmade tables supported by old hydrants, and a giant American flag stitched together from old firehoses was made by Christopher himself.

While locals are often eager to come by to see what he's done with the building, they're also there to get a drink. Christopher 's first spirit is Forceable Entry, a vodka named for the firefighter technique. Since opening in 2016, Lucidi Distilling Co. has won dozens of spirits awards and contests, all on display at the distillery. With the addition of the new Craft Kitchen and eclectic menu, they are sure to have something for everyone' taste.