The city of Chicago is a tease. When temps hit 80 this week, I knew it was too good to be true. An April Fool’s joke, perhaps. Be that as it may, I’m in a South of the Border mood and all of the sunshine and smiles around town have got me thinking of one of my go-to, warm weather pleasures in life: Margaritas.
From agave to prickly pear; fine, even a Skinny Girl marg, you can’t go wrong.
In honor of the first week of good weather in far too long, here are our top picks for paying homage to Mexico’s national spirit:
Zocalo (358 W. Ontario)
Try: Partida Organic Margarita – Partida Reposado tequila, fresh lime, organic agave nectar served on the rocks.
On the Horizon: As part of their monthly tequila distillery events, next Thursday, April 8th, from 6:30 – 9 pm, Zocalo will be shining the spotlight on Corralejo tequila. The spirited soirees ($20 a person) will highlight different tequilas through informal tastings, specialty cocktails, and Zocalo’s flavorful Mexican fare. Guests will taste Corralejo’s blanco, reposado, and añejo tequilas, as well as specialty cocktails created by resident tequila ambassador Victor Baheza. Nosh on passed apps, including items from Zocalo’s new “street fare” menu and dance to live music by Vivian Garcia.
de cero (814 W. Randolph)
Try: The Hibiscus Margarita – Tea and honey infused tequila is paired with hibiscus tea and splashed with lime.
Why We Love It: The crowd is always bustling with PYTs, first-daters, and casual neighborhood locals at this modern, chic taqueria. There’s an extensive tequila menu and fantastic mescal offerings (opt for the Santo Domingo Alba, which is less spicy and smooth).
Zapatista (1307 S. Wabash)
Try: Margarita Zapatisa – 100% agave tequila, Torres orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice create this classic.
Why We Love It: True tequila lovers will join their Agave Club for specials, exclusive invites, and rare tastings. Zapatista is the go-to spot in the South Loop for rich mole sauce, strong drinks, and fresh food.
*Featured Cocktail* at Dos Diablos (15 W. Hubbard)
Try: The Red Devil – Don Julio Silver, grapefruit juice, fresh squeezed lime, and blood orange puree are hand shaken and garnished with lime. Know What’s Trendy- Know Your Tequila.
On the Horizon: Set to open in the next few weeks (mid-April), the three amigos, also known as Marc Bortz, Todd Rubin, and John Merlo, will be introducing Dos Diablos, a casual, cantina-style Mexican joint in River North. It will complete the golden triangle or trifecta of Hubbard street hot spots (Rockit, Hub, now DD). Think classic Mexican fare such as fajitas and fresh guac, and a deep selection of tequila varietals and tequila-inspired cocktails such as the Paloma and Mexican Moonshine.
