I almost titled this post Best Cocktails in Chicago, then thought twice. Taste is subjective, and I’m not here to pretend I’ve sampled every gin-forward negroni in the city. (Spoiler: I probably skipped those.)
If you’re a tequila, bourbon, vodka, or whiskey kind of person – you’re in the right place. These are the cocktail bars I go back to again and again. No gimmicks, no overcomplicated garnishes, just great drinks and even better vibes.
Bottoms up.
Green House – Eden
Eden’s seasonal menu is rooted in fresh flavors, many of which come straight from their on-site greenhouse. Our server spoke passionately about it (shoutout to people who love what they do), which made ordering the ‘Green House’ cocktail a no-brainer. The martini-style cocktail checked every box: citrusy, refreshing, and sneakily strong. I sipped it on a rare 75-degree April evening and found myself daydreaming of warmer months ahead.
Espresso Martini – Gemini
No espresso martini on the menu? No problem. Gemini’s bartenders will still make you one anyway, and you’ll be glad they did. Made with fresh espresso (no syrupy, faux-coffee liqueur here), vodka, and a mystery something I can’t quite place, this one’s smooth, rich, and balanced. You can’t go wrong at Gemini, and their espresso martini further proves that point.
Oaxacan Old Fashioned – Trivoli Tavern
Trivoli’s Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a bold reimagining of a classic. Instead of bourbon, they use Corazón blanco tequila, and as a fan of both, I was instantly on board. The tequila brings an agave-forward warmth that pairs beautifully with the smoky, bittersweet notes of the Old Fashioned. If you’re into tequila or just want to shake up your usual Old Fashioned, it’s worth a try. A rare exception to the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” rule.
Lychee Martini – Le Colonial
There are plenty of reasons to book a table at Le Colonial: the Vietnamese-fusion menu, the dreamy lighting, the people-watching. But the lychee martini deserves its own moment. It’s perfectly chilled, not overly sweet, and better than Nobu’s (yes, I said it).
