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Meadowlark

Chicago

Convivial neighbourhood bar vibes underscore the speakeasy-like ambiance of Meadowlark, one of the most compelling cocktail bars to open in Chicago in recent memory. Housed in an historic building in the Logan Square neighbourhood and dressed with weathered exposed brick and a pastiche of antique accoutrements; it’s an intimate cocktail den where generous Midwestern hospitality meets a humble celebration of the region’s flavours, history and culture.

Since opening in 2022, beverage director Abe Vucekovich (formerly of pioneering cocktail bar The Violet Hour) has conjured a collection of cocktails made for rotating menus featuring themes inspired by contemplative topics like birds of the Midwest and landmarks of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Its latest drinks list is inspired by ‘childhood activities for grown-ups’, with recess reimagined as bright highball of tequila, gin, red wine, madeira, lemon and ginger. With drinks ranging from light and refreshing to bold and boozy – with the occasional lowbrow beer-and-a-shot special tossed into the mix for good measure – there’s something for everyone to enjoy, including alcohol-free versions of many menu offerings. And, because Meadowlark is sister bar to adjacent restaurants Lardon and Union, we recommend you don’t skip the bar snacks. Expect everything from vermouth-marinated olives to Chicago-style pork belly with mustard, cornichons, pickled peppers, celery salt and cherry tomatoes.

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