Even a hard core Chicagoan would be forgiven if they weren't thinking about warmer destinations this time of year.
If you can't swing the plane ticket south, Nacional 27 might have the next best thing.
Every Friday night, the restaurant transforms into a sexy South Beach nightclub with sultry signature cocktails, Miami fashion week footage and dynamic beats performed by special guest DJs and live percussionists.
"Miami Nights" is hosted by renowned master mixologist Adam Seger, so the drinks are definitely on point, like the Suba -- a low cal/low carb/low fat martini.
Other featured cocktails include Nacional 27's Passion Colada Mojito, LookBetterNaked, Ham and Cheese, Smoky Float, Latin Manhattan and Brazilian Southside.
Complimentary South Beach-inspired tapas and ceviche will be served between 5-6:30, live percussion between 6:30 and 9:30, and Latin house music will be on tap from 9:30 until 11. The party continues after 11 with a $10 cover charge and complimentary passion-ginger sangria for the ladies.
It may not actually be Miami, but on a cold December night, it's a pretty good alternative.
To view more of D.C. Crenshaw's reviews and videos, log on to www.efete.net and the NBC Chicago Street Team Blog.