Don't look now, but summer is passing you by. Have you even had a spiked lemonade yet? Not to worry, summer lovin' restaurants and bars around town are putting the ultimate warm-weather drink to good use by dreaming up decidedly adult variations on an unassuming, refreshing glass of lemonade.
Tavern at the Park, the sprawling, sophisticated dining and drinking destination on the north side of Millennium Park, is a comfortable spot to revive yourself after a sunny afternoon spent exploring the gardens or steamy evening outdoor concert. Recharge your batteries with a frosty highball glass of "de Castro Lemonade," a zingy blend of Bacardi Limon Rum with freshly squeezed lemon and lime juices, Sierra Mist and Tang ($10).
River North's ZED451 is tailor-made for balmy summer evenings, with a sleek and sexy rooftop lounge. While you're enjoying the air up there, order a "Ginger Bourbon Lemonade," a potent mixture of citrus-infused Woodford Reserve Small-Batch Bourbon and fresh lemonade with a zesty kick of ginger ($12).
State and Lake, the charmingly upscale-meets-rustic restaurant in theWit, the snazzy new Loop boutique hotel, is serving up its version of the classic "Shandy" ($8). Take Metropolitan Lager, add freshly made house lemonade, and you've got the perfect simple summer concoction. Bottoms up!
