Morgan Jae Cohen, Concierge, Sofitel
The Darling
The cocktails at The Darling in the West Loop are a thing of beauty. Garnished with stunning fruits, designs, and flowers, you are sure to elevate your Instagram feed with a photo of one of these delicious drinks. Not only do the cocktails impress, so does the bar itself; from the Library to the Ballroom, this two-floor spot is home to Chicago performers like magicians, drag queens, and dancers. Drinks and a show? Absolutely. Try one of the most popular cocktails like The Darling Buds of May or the Desert Rose.
Marcus Hollis, Concierge, Omni Hotel Chicago
The Aviary
Science meets creativity at The Aviary, a hip cocktail bar nestled in the Fulton Market District. From the interactive In the Rocks cocktail where you break apart your ice to release the drink, to the mind-boggling Bring Another Smurf – a drink that literally changes color when you blow into a straw – an experience at The Aviary is the stuff from which dreams are made. Go ahead, make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Shannon Boland, Chef Concierge, LondonHouse
Violet Hour
Wicker Park’s super-chic cocktail bar, Violet Hour, is a mecca for some of the coolest cocktails that you’ll love. A seasonal rotating cocktail list keeps the choices fresh, but don’t worry – you can still try (and post!) a classic Violet Hour cocktail like the Juliet & Romeo or the Hunter Gatherer. As a social media bonus, Violet Hour also has an amazing art motif, from the facade to the interior; the outside wall is ever-changing so you’re sure to see an awesome selfie opportunity when you visit!
Diane Martinez, Concierge, The Palmer House
Beacon Tavern
The robust cocktail list at Beacon Tavern includes hot and cold libations, a rotating seasonal menu, non-alcoholic beverages, and more. Located on the Magnificent Mile, Beacon Tavern features a rustic setting with both indoor and outdoor seating – perfect for when you ‘gram your drink – and an artfully curated cocktail list with classics like the Punch, to the Vieux Carré which features Whistlepig 10 year Rye and 1970s vintage Bénédictine.
