Cocktails in Chicago?

[bolognium]

Going to Chicago for a few days over the holidays. Any suggestions as to where to go for real cocktails? Thanks for any imput!

[Ed Hamilton]

I was just having this conversation with industry friends yesterday. Unfortunately, the cocktail culture in Chicago isn't nearly as mature as it is in New York, San Francisco or even Atlanta. However, there are a few places where the bartenders recognize that customers want more than a glass of flavored vodka.

Though better known for their beers, Clark Street Ale House, just south of Chicago on Clark St is one of my first stops. They're one of the few places where you can get a real ti punch.

The Peninsula Hotel is on the other end of the spectrum, the surroundings are very impressive and the bar staff is knowledgable.

If you're looking for the best selection of whisky, and other spirits, as well as the best selection of beers in the area you need to go to Delilah's on Lincoln Ave. In addition to the assortment of spirits behind the bar, the clientele is almost as entertaining. And if you smoke you'll feel right at home at Delilah's.

The Intercontintental Hotel is also recommended, the Beverage Manager could be considered a spirits geek, if you know what I mean.

There are other places to enjoy good cocktails just north of the downtown area and I'm sure the next post will be even more enlightening.

[kvltrede]

...Clark Street Ale House, just south of Chicago on Clark St is one of my first stops. They're one of the few places where you can get a real ti punch.

The Peninsula Hotel is on the other end of the spectrum, the surroundings are very impressive and the bar staff is knowledgable.

If you're looking for the best selection of whisky, and other spirits, as well as the best selection of beers in the area you need to go to Delilah's on Lincoln Ave. In addition to the assortment of spirits behind the bar, the clientele is almost as entertaining. And if you smoke you'll feel right at home at Delilah's.

The Intercontintental Hotel is also recommended, the Beverage Manager could be considered a spirits geek....

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Thanks for the update to this post, Ed. I had no idea a real Ti Punch could be had in Chicago.

Kurt

[Ed Hamilton]

I just went to Matchbox, just south of Chicago on Milwaukee and I'd have to add Matchbox to the list of bars that take real pride in their cocktails. The first bottle I saw when I walked in the door was Germain Robin brandy. Yeah, they have too many Stoli flavors but that's the standard in this city. But if you're looking for good gin, whisky, rum or real vodka you won't be disappointed.

[BTR]

The biggest problem with the Matchbox is that it's about a foot wide.

[K_A_S]

If I could piggy-back on this thread with a related question:

Can anyone recommend somewhere that both has good drink selections and is cigar-friendly?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.