It’s finally summertime in Chicago, so I’ve got beverages on the brain. Here’s a round-up of a few recent favorites.
Rum cocktail, Homestead on the Roof
With bursts of blueberry, thyme, and lemon, plus lots of ice, this rum-based cocktail was frothy and refreshing.
Homestead on the Roof, 1924 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago.
Cortado, Intelligentsia Logan Square
Once you order this off-menu beverage that combines espresso and milk in perfect balance, you’ll never go back (and, to be honest, this is also what you order if you want to impress a barista!). It was perfect to sip slowly as I lost myself in a great book.
Intelligentsia Coffee, 2642 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.
Mango-orange-kiwi juice with honey, Meli Cafe
I fell in love with this unique tropical juice combination and the added silky sweetness from the honey.
Meli Cafe, 540 N. Wells St., Chicago.
Masala chai latte, Reno
I’ve sung Reno’s praises before, but this spicy chai became my new go-to for camping out to get a couple hours of work done.
Reno, 2607 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago.
Blood orange Radler, The Radler
This beer cocktail screamed summer, from its fiery orange color to its citrusy, fizzy, and thoroughly thirst-quenching character.
The Radler, 2375 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.
Dark Matter Chocolate City draft iced coffee, Longman & Eagle
While there’s no actual chocolate in this draft iced coffee, the cocoa notes and bold, fruity complexity make it the dreamiest of morning beverages, especially outside on the patio with a splash of cream.
Longman & Eagle, 2657 N Kedzie Ave., Chicago.
Hot chocolate, La Colombe
Dark, rich hot chocolate is always a treat, but even more so in such a beautifully intricate cup and saucer.
La Colombe, 1552 N. Damen Ave., Chicago.