Rockford on the rise

Prairie Street Brewing Co. is a popular spot to grab a bite — don’t miss the fried cheese curds — and a brew.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

The old, red brick building that says Rockford Brewing Co. is actually home to Prairie Street Brewing Co. The building dates to the mid-1800s, when it housed Peacock Brewing Co.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

Rockford Roasting Co. has fans from far and wide, including Food Network star Alton Brown, who stumbled upon the downtown coffee shop when he was in town for an event at the nearby Coronado Performing Arts Center.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

A comfortable place to relax and get caffeinated, Rockford Roasting Co. is at 206 N. Main St. in downtown Rockford.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

Last year, Food Network star Alton Brown named Rockford Roasting Co. one of the top eight coffee shops in the country.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

Built in 1927 by a prominent Rockford family who lived in an art deco apartment attached to the venue, the Coronado Performing Arts Center eventually fell on hard times. But the people of Rockford rallied, and it reopened in 2001 after an $18.5 million renovation.   (Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune )

Minglewood boutique in downtown Rockford sells an array of eco-friendly fashion and jewelry.   (Kate Silver/for the Chicago Tribune)

Mugs at Rockford Art Deli are another sign of Rockford pride.   (Kate Silver/for the Chicago Tribune)