While we're mostly concerned with what's on the plate at restaurants across the city—wine, beer, and booze are equally important, especially over the weekend. On Friday, for your drinking pleasure, we'll highlight notable events and news placing potables on a pedestal.
This weekend, The Southern adds some new rare bourbons like Jefferson 18 yr and Old Forester Birthday, along with an expanded selection of Scotch whiskeys.
Meanwhile, over at Province, new barman Adam Sieczka mixes up spring cocktails such as an Ancho pepper lemon drop, an orange juice-laced margarita, and the El Train Tea punch. We recommend enjoying them al fresco.
On the wine side, on Saturday night, from 7 to 9 p.m., Lincoln Park wine boutique Bodega Ramos will host a pinot noir tasting featuring wines from Oregon and Washington State. The knowledgable owner will guide you through the 12 wines, and light snacks will be provided. The cost is $20 at the door or $15 in advance (call 773-281-0067 or stop by the store).
And last but not least: Beer geeks should purchase tickets to Chicago Craft Beer week, hitting the city May 19. Expect pub crawls, restaurant events, and meet-ups. Passports are $10 and are available online. Chbeers! [The Feast]