Today is a big deal because tequila is a big deal. Happy National Tequila Day, people. We’re celebrating the disorderly, disruptive, undisciplined, flat-out naughty spirit with 9 tequila-centric cocktails you can find around Chicago. Get your limes and salt ready—here we go!
1. Seven Strangers ($13) at RM Champagne
116 N. Green St. 312-243-1199
This super-spicy cocktail combines jalapeno and cilantro-infused Maestro Dobel tequila, chareau, St. George absinthe, lime and damnation bitters.
2. Devonshire Fizz ($12) at Broken Shaker
19 E. Ohio St. 312-940-3699
If you’re a sucker for pretty garnishes, this one’s for you. Rare Tea Cellars Sicilian blood orange blend, local honey, campari, grapefruit soda, sweet vermouth and Milagro tequila are topped with an orange peel and edible flower.
3. Gypsy ($9) at Masa Azul
2901 W. Diversey Ave. 773-687-0300
Tequila blanco, maraschino, orange liqueur and citrus are accompanied by a kick-in-the-butt habanero green chile rim.
4.The Bulldog-garita ($17) at El Hefe
15 W. Hubbard St. 312-548-6841
The holiday falls on a Friday, so it’s OK to go hard with this 32-ounce margarita with a Corona planted inside. Kill two birds with one stone, right?
5. La Classica margarita ($10) at Bar Takito
201 N. Morgan St. 312-888-9485
Keep it simple with this too-easy-to-drink marg: Corazon blanco, combier, lime and agave.
6. Tequila Cobbler ($8) at Dove’s Luncheonette
1545 N. Damen Ave. 773-645-4060
A cocktail that rotates seasonally guarantees the freshest flavors, but what’s important here is TEQUILA.
7. The Tequila Mary ($11) at Salpicon
1252 N. Wells St. 312-988-7811
Like a bloody mary, minus the vodka, plus tequila. The perfect way to cure your hangover from National Tequila Day.
8. Chamomile Tequila Punch ($11-$65) at The Bedford
1612 W. Division St. 773-235-8800
Sip it by the glass or convince a few friends to go in on the punch bowl. This one combines chamomile tea-infused Cazadores tequila blanco, pamplemousse liqueur, lime, grapefruit juice and grapefruit soda.
9. The Cabrito blanco tequila with jicama and housemade “verdita” ($6) at Parson’s Chicken & Fish
2952 W. Armitage Ave. 773-384-3333
Cut the BS and get straight to the point with this shot and verdita chaser (translation: pineapple, jalapeno, cilantro and mint).
