Chicago Magazine Releases The Top Bars In The Windy City For 2014
Chicago is chock full of numerous drinking establishments, from cocktail bars to hotel bars. With all of the options that you have for dining and drinking, it can be difficult to choose. In fact, in the past year alone, there have been 65 new bars that have opened in the Windy City. Chicago Magazine has helped narrow that list down to 20 bars that have earned a spot at the top of the pack. We’re delving into the top three bars on that list – check out any of these establishments for tasty food, a unique ambiance and a variety of signature drinks:
1. Three Dots and a Dash: River North
If you live in Chicago, you know that warm weather is hard to come by. Stop by Three Dots and a Dash to get a taste of island living. Paul McGee is a mixologist at the tiki bar, and offers a 16-cocktail menu, all with a fun Hawaiian charm. Try the Jet Pilot, which is a mix of three rums and includes lime juice, cinnamon, grapefruit juice, absinthe and bitters. It’s dressed with pineapple leaves, citrus peels, a cinnamon stick and edible flowers for a beverage that looks just as delicious as it tastes. All of the drinks are served in unique glasses – one resembles a coconut, and others are constructed to look like a pineapple, a skull, a conch shell and more. Enroll in culinary courses online to be able to mix up your own beverages, much like McGee.
2. Billy Sunday: Logan Square
Alex Bachman is the mastermind behind the signature drinks and cocktails found at Billy Sunday. He’s known for his sweet creations as well as his ability to put a unique twist on classic cocktails, like a homemade gin and tonic. Each drink has its own creative name, like the Handle W/Care, which is made up of reposado tequila, high-proof falernum, and tonka bean bitters in black glass. There’s also the Hoar’s Frost, which includes London dry gin, orange curacao, lemon, London dock rum and grenadine. The ambiance is dark, charming and cozy, offering a 50 person capacity and playing a variety of indie rock tracks.
3. Parson’s Chicken & Fish: Logan Square
This establishment is a must-visit during summer – its spacious patio is filled with stringed lights for a warm and inviting ambiance. But that doesn’t mean that this bar isn’t just as popular during the winter months. Head inside to the intimate tavern, where you can sip on tasty drinks like the Smoky Paloma – made up of tequila, St. Germain, lime juice, San Pellegrino Pompelmo, mezcal and salt. This bar has been recognized for its Negroni Slushy, with Chicago Magazine saying that it’s “nearing iconic Windy City Status.” The signature cocktail contains Luxardo Bitter, Letherbee Gin, sweet vermouth and a bit of lemon juice.
