5 Illinois Bars Featuring Build-Your-Own Cocktail Kits That Will Put You In The Holiday Spirit
A lot of things might seem topsy-turvy this holiday season; maybe your travel plans are up in the air, or you won’t get to exchange presents with your favorite people like you’re used to. Fortunately, in Illinois, you have access to one mix-up that will raise your spirits: make-your-own-cocktail kits and to-go spirits from your favorite bars in the state. Here are five Illinois institutions where you can have a merry night out in your very own home.
Machine is one of Chicago's classiest cocktail joints and their most exquisite craft creations are available to go. Choose from one of their singular offerings, like the Little Empress which combines top-shelf bourbon and a homemade mix made from Raspberry lemon and mint. Machine is located at 1846 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622.
Esquire Lounge is a more casual spot for good times and good drinks. As far as their to-go options are concerned, there's really only one way to go: the signature pineapple margarita. It comes in single-serving sizes, but we recommend you grab a growler. After all, you know the saying: go big, then go home. Esquire Lounge is located at 106 N Walnut St, Champaign, IL 61820.
The Violet Hour is a famously tucked-away bar in Chicago, hidden behind a rotating mural. Now, you can bring their artsy, underground vibe home to your place. You'll feel like the coolest kid in school while sipping an amazing cocktail that's sure to warm your cheeks. The Violet Hour is located at 1520 N Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60622.
Mystic Kitchen and Tasting Room is a locally owned bar and restaurant, started by two women with a passion for wine. While wine may be their focus, their craft cocktails are a wonder to behold in their own right. Grab either for a great night in. And keep your eyes on their website; on special occasions, they even offer wine tastings to take home. Mystic Kitchen and Tasting Room is located at 306 N Center St, Bloomington, IL 61701.
Last but not least is Warrenville's own Two Brothers Tap House. For those who can't imagine crafting their own cocktails, Two Brothers has got you covered with their pre-mixed Yule Mule, which is basically holiday cheer in a can. On the other hand, if you're really the DIY type, you can take home your own bottle of their house-distilled bourbon, or another lively liquor, straight up. Two Brothers Tap House is located at 30W315 Calumet Ave W, Warrenville, IL 60555. You can also check out Two Brothers Barrel House in Naperville at 16 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540.
Safety doesn’t have to put a damper on your holiday spirits this year. Mix up your winter’s evening with a classy, crafty to-go drink from one of these fantastic bars. Who knows? You might find you have a flair for bartending.
What’s your favorite bar in Illinois selling cocktails to go? What’s the best drink you’ve brought home this holiday? We love hearing your suggestions and seeing your photos. Get in touch!
Benjamin Clancy is the Illinois and Indiana writer at Only In Your State, a doctoral candidate at UNC Chapel Hill in Communication, and an artistic type who has attended the Vermont Studio Center residency in poetry writing and makes something like music as "little other." They grew up in Austin, Texas and currently live in Chicago, IL with their partner, two dogs, and a cat. Get in touch by emailing bclancy@onlyinyourstate.com.
