“National Margarita Day”

Five Area Restaurants and Bars Offer Magnificent Margs

Wednesday, February 22
Times and prices vary

Salt, or no salt?  That will be the question of the day on Wednesday, February 22, also known as “National Margarita Day.”  The margarita ranks as one of America’s most popular drinks, and National Margarita Day is the perfect time to kick back, relax and enjoy the tequila and lime libation (as if you need a reason). Whether you prefer them on the rocks, straight up, frozen or fruity, these five local restaurants and bars offer mouthwatering margaritas:

ZOCALO Restaurant and Tequila Bar

ZOCALO Margarita – Gran Centenario Plata Tequila, triple sec and fresh lime juice; served up, on the rocks or frozen with a salt rim $8

Tropical Margarita – Gran Centenario Plata Tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice with choice of pomegranate, prickly pear, passion-mango or guava; served up, on the rocks or frozen with a salt rim $9

Partida Organic Margarita – Partida Reposado Tequila, fresh lime juice and 100% organic agave nectar; served up or on the rocks $12

LeBlon Guava Margarita – LeBlon Cachaca, fresh lime juice and guava nectar; served up or on the rocks $10

Nacional 27

N27 Margarita – El Jimador Reposado, Bacardi Anejo, Grand Marnier and lime $11

Cantina Laredo

Casa Rita – Signature margarita, premier blend of Giro Silver Tequila by Sauza, Cointreau Orange Liqueur and fresh-squeezed lemon and lime juices $9

Cabo Margarita - Cabo Wabo Reposado blends seamlessly with Grand Marnier Orange Liqueur $12.50

Pomegranate Margarita – Add an extra splash of Sauza Blanco and pomegranate puree to the Casa Rita $10

Herradura Margarita – Herradura Reposado and Cointreau Orange Liqueur $11.50

Perfect Patron Margarita – Patron Silver and Patron Citronge Orange Liqueur $12

Cinco Rita – Giro Silver Tequila by Sauza, Hornitos, Herradura and Cazadores Silver Tequilas with Cointreau Orange Liqueur, lime juice and agave nectar $11.50

Mango Margarita – Frozen Casa Rita with fresh mango puree and an extra splash of Sauza Blanco $10

Milagro Blackberry Smash – Milagro Silver, lime and mint, muddled with blackberries and agave nectar $11.50

Cactus Bar & Grill

12 oz. Margarita $7; 16 oz. Margarita $9; 20 oz. “Man vs. Margarita” $11

The Cactus Classic – Cactus’ world famous classic recipe; frozen or on the rocks

Guiltless Margarita – A slimmed down version of Cactus’ classic, made with silver tequila, fresh lime and orange juices, agave syrup and club soda; served on the rocks

Frosty Fruit – Made with real fruit purees and served frozen; available in strawberry and mango

NOTE: Add a floater of Patron silver tequila to any margarita for $3

Taco Joint

ZOCALO Margarita – Lunazul Blanco Tequila, triple sec and fresh lime juice; served up on the rocks or frozen with a salt rim $8

Tropical Margarita – Lunazul Blanco Tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice with choice of: prickly pear, passion-mango, blood orange or guava; served up on the rocks or frozen with a salt rim $9

Herradura Organic Margarita – Herradura Reposado Tequila, fresh lime juice and 100% organic agave nectar; served up or on the rocks $10

Black & Green Margarita – Negra Modelo beer over frozen ZOCALO Margarita $8

Grapefruit Margarita – Gran Centenario Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, citrus-chile infused agave
nectar, fresh ruby red grapefruit & lemon juice, dash of bitters; served on the rocks with a chile piquin rim $9

ZOCALO Restaurant and Tequila Bar
358 W. Ontario
Chicago, IL 60610
312.302.9977
ZocaloChicago.com

Nacional 27
325 W. Huron
Chicago, IL 60654
312-664-2727
n27chicago.com

Cantina Laredo
508 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60654
312.955.0014
CantinaLaredo.com

Cactus Bar and Grill
404 S. Wells
Chicago, IL 60607
312-922-3830
DontDrinkAndTrade.com

Taco Joint
1969 N. Halsted
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 951-2457
TacoJoint.com

Espolon Tequila Events at ZOCALO

Four Course “Day of the Dead” Tequila Dinner and Festive Tequila Tasting

“Day of the Dead” Tequila Dinner
Wednesday, October 12
6:30 p.m. cocktail reception, 7 p.m. dinner
$65 (plus tax and gratuity)

Espolon Tequila Tasting
Thursday, October 13
7-9 p.m.
$25 per person (all inclusive)

This October, Zocalo will host back-to-back tequila events with Espolon tequila in the spotlight. On Wednesday, October 12 at 6:30 p.m., the restaurant and tequila bar will welcome guests for a “Day of the Dead” themed tequila dinner, complete with a welcome cocktail, tequila pairings and infusions, and an open bar of Zocalo margaritas, beer, and wine. The four course menu, listed below, features ingredients that are indigenous to the region of Oaxaca. A representative from Espolon tequila will be leading this tasting event. Limited seating is available. Please call Zocalo 312-302-9977 to reserve your spot.

The following day, Thursday, October 13, Zocalo will host its monthly tequila tasting from 7-9 p.m. The all-inclusive fee of $25 includes two creative cocktails by resident tequila ambassador Victor Baheza, a tasting of Espolon tequilas, “Day of the Dead” themed appetizers and live music. A raffle will be held for a chance to win Zocalo gift cards and bottles of Espolon tequila complete with tequila locker service at either Zocalo or Taco Joint.

“Day of the Dead” Tequila Dinner Menu and Pairings
Wednesday, October 12

First Course: Ceviche de Camaro
Poached shrimp tossed in a morita-blood orange dressing with cilantro, shallots, diced avocado and blood orange segments paired with Espolon Tequila Blanco

Second Course: Crema de Calabaza
Crème of butternut squash with a hint of vanilla and a cotija cheese crostini paired with morita & citrus infused Espolon Tequila Blanco

Third Course: Moles de Oaxaca
Braised beef short ribs in rich, flavorful black mole andpan seared halibut with green mole prepared in the traditional style of Oaxaca; served with caramelized sweet potato purée, sautéed baby carrots and grilled asparagus paired with Espolon Tequila Reposado

Fourth Course: Tres Leches de Chocolate
Vanilla sponge cake soaked in a Oaxacan chocolate spiked three-milk sauce with cajeta whipped topping and mixed berry compote paired with roasted cacao & cinnamon infused Espolon Tequila Reposado

*dinner also includes open bar of Zocalo margaritas, beer and wine

Handcrafted with 100% pure blue agave, Espolon premium tequila celebrates real Mexico and its storied culture through classic 19th century artistry and the iconic rooster, a symbol of national pride. This super premium 100% pure Blue Agave tequila is crafted at the acclaimed San Nicolas distillery located in the Los Altos region of Jalisco, and is recognized as the “Best Factory in Mexico.”

ZOCALO Restaurant and Tequila Bar
358 W. Ontario
Chicago, IL 60610
312.302.9977
ZocaloChicago.com

This July, Sip “Make-A-Wish Margaritas” at Taco Joint and Zocalo

Bonus Margarita Making Class Held at Zocalo

Make-A-Wish Margaritas: July 1-31
$10 each

Margarita Making Class: Thursday, July 21
6:30-9 p.m.
$20 per person

Throughout the month of July, both Taco Joint and Zocalo will offer a “Make-A-Wish Margarita” for $10. Of each purchased cocktail, $2 will be directly donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois.

Make-A-Wish Guava Chipotle Margarita
Karma tequila blanco, triple sec, fresh lime juice and guava-chipotle puree with sugar-chipotle rim. The drink may be enjoyed up, on the rocks or frozen.

Shake. It. Up.

Everyone’s favorite Mexican libation will be featured in a cocktail class at Zocalo. The restaurant and tequila bar will hold a margarita-making course on Thursday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. Led by in-house beverage director, Victor Baheza, this spirited soiree will teach the “Make-A-Wish Margarita,” along with other flavored margaritas and recipes. The class will include informal tequila tastings, specialty cocktails and Zocalo’s flavorful Mexican fare. The cost to attend is $20 per person, call Zocalo for reservations. Fifty-percent of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois.

ZOCALO Restaurant and Tequila Bar
358 W. Ontario
Chicago, IL 60610
312.302.9977
ZocaloChicago.com

Taco Joint
Urban Taqueria and Cantina
1969 North Halsted
Chicago, Illinois 60614
412.951.2457
TacoJoint.com

Father’s Day: 12 Dining Ideas for Dad

Chicago Restaurants for Every Type of Dad

Free Pints, Prix Fixes, Picnics, Gourmet Goodies and More

Sunday, June 19
Prices and Times Vary

(1) For the Dad who loves pints, pub grub and plenty of golf: Timothy O’Toole’s Pub
Pop receives his first pint free (with the purchase of another). The US Open Golf Championships will be shown on over 60 screens. Brunch, lunch and dinner will be offered on Father’s Day starting at 9:30am. 622 North Fairbanks, Chicago, 312.642.0700, TimothyOTooles.com

(2) For your Daddy, who loves All-American BBQ: The Smoke Daddy
You can’t go wrong with good ol’ American BBQ on Father’s Day. Give dad a break: get him off the grill so he can enjoy a meal with his family. The Wicker Park restaurant will be open for barbeque and blues from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Or, stay in – The Smoke Daddy will literally drive the que to you. Simply call the catering line at 773.369.6656.

Gift Alert: If Dad insists on manning that Weber, then gift him with Smoke Daddy’s Father’s Day Gift Set, which includes three BBQ sauces (Original, Mustard Q and Sweet & Smokey) and a bottle of Smokin’ Mary Bloody Mary Mix for $15. Pick up is available at Smoke Daddy or order online at TheSmokeDaddy.com. 1804 West Division, Chicago, 773.772.6656

(3) For your witty, wanna-be-Brit: Blokes & Birds
If your Dad longs to be across the pond, Blokes & Birds has a most satisfying Sunday brunch  – from Scotch Eggs and Fish & Chips to Bangers and Foie Burgers. Tip: this contemporary English gastropub has a bloody good, bloody mary and over 70 global imported brews. Brunch is offered from 11am-4pm; dinner starts at 5 p.m. 3343 North Clark, Chicago, 773.472.5252, BlokesAndBirdsChicago.com

(4) For history buff Dads: The Chicago Firehouse
Dad will enjoy the history of this landmark firehouse building (did you know Backdraft was filmed here?). With a meat-centric menu and in-house butcher, The Chicago Firehouse definitely has the “chops” to make any dad glad. Open for brunch (9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) and dinner (3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.); gorgeous outdoor dining is offered on the large back patio. 1401 South Michigan, Chicago, 312.786.1401, ChicagoFirehouse.com

(5) For retro Dads: The Red Canary
Dad will “dig” The Red Canary’s decadent parlor room and the enormous, enclosed garden patio. He’ll “flip” for the American comfort cuisine and impressive selection of libations, including an extensive list of classic cocktails and craft beer. He’s sure to be “jazzed” by the brunch menu, featuring bottomless mimosas and bloody marys. Go Daddio! 695 North Milwaukee, Chicago, 312.846.1475, TheRedCanaryChicago.com

(6) For draught Dads: Rock Bottom Brewery
Brewmaster Chris Rafferty offers more than a dozen handcrafted ales on tap, while Chef Chris McCoy presents a large menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrees (a perfect dish for every palate). Tell Dad he’s “tops” on Rock Bottom’s rooftop beer garden, while enjoying a cold pint, good conversation and amazing views of the city! Open for brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night from 10:00a.m. to 1:00 a.m. One West Grand, Chicago, 312.755.9339, RockBottom.com

(7) For taco and tequila-lovin Dads: Taco Joint Urban Taqueria and Cantina
Take Dad out for tacos, tortas and tequila this Father’s Day. Belly up to the bar or choose from the communal tables and counter seating. If the weather’s great, head to the window for Taco Joint to-go. Fathers and families love a picnic in the park! 1689 North Halsted, Chicago, 312.951.2457, TacoJoint.com

(8) For Dads who like…Divas: Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
Fun-loving and open-minded fathers will enjoy the glitz and glamor of Hollywood during Kit Kat’s fabulous Sunday brunch (11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.). The day is filled with live performances by Diva Madam X, free flowing mimosas and bloody martinis. Dining guests may choose a la carte or prix fixe. Kit Kat will be open ’til 2:00 a.m. with half-price martinis and evening entertainment. 3700 North Halsted, Chicago, 773.525.1111, KitKatChicago.com

(9) For dapper Dads: Quince at the Homestead
If you want to treat Dad to dinner in a sophisticated setting (but your trying not to break the bank), Quince in Evanston has the answer. Chef Andy Motto’s three course Sunday evening prix fixe is only $35. Each person may choose an appetizer, entree and dessert. Tip: request a table on the front porch veranda. 1625 Hinman, Evanston, 847.570-8419, QuinceRestaurant.net

(10) For the pizza-lovin’ Papa: Frasca Wine Bar & Pizzeria
Brunch will be served on Father’s Day from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., featuring breakfast pizzas, omelets, fresh fruit pancakes and bottomless mimosas. The dinner menu (3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) offers a large range of wood-fired pizzas, market-fresh salads, farmer’s table charcuterie plates, seasonal pastas and hearty entrees paired with great wines. Tip: kids eat free from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m and draughts are $3 on Sundays. 3358 North Paulina, Chicago, 773.248.5222, FrascaPizzeria.com

(11) For Dads who like to park it: Park Grill
Dad will love the classic American grill menu, which is open for both lunch and dinner – and just so happens to be located in the heart of Chicago’s beautiful Millennium Park. The Plaza at the Park Grill offers the best alfresco setting, just steps off Michigan Avenue and the lakefront. 11 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, 312.521.Park, ParkGrillChicago.com

Plan ahead and pre-order a “Picnic in the Park” pack from Park Cafe and treat Dad to a leisurely Sunday in the park (chair rentals are available). Call 312.521-7276 extension 200.

(12) For the Father that likes to keep it local: LOKaL
This modern, European-inspired neighborhood restaurant located in Wicker Park offers Sunday brunch from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  LOKaL’s brunch features free-flowing cocktails (mimosas and marys), farm-fresh egg dishes, salads and sandwiches prepared with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. 1904 West North Avenue, Chicago, 773.904.8113, LokalChicago.com

Opening Soon: TACO JOINT

Urban Taqueria and Cantina Comes to Lincoln Park

Taco Joint Urban Taqueria and Cantina, opening mid-January, will bring regional Mexican street fare to Lincoln Park. The restaurant will feature the unique and festive flavors found throughout the streets and marketplaces of Mexico. Taco Joint is the brainchild of Edgar Castaneda, partner, Zocalo Restaurant and Tequila Bar in River North.

The menu, executed by a trio of chefs from Zocalo, will offer a selection of tacos made with braised and grilled meats, homemade salsas and handmade tortillas. Signature tacos will include Barbacoa from Central Mexico, Cochinita Pibil from Yucatán and Birria from Jalisco. Taco Joint will also offer tortas (sandwiches), huaraches (flatbreads), antojitos (snacks), guacamoles, salads and sides. Each day, Taco Joint will feature a regional street fare “Especial del Dia” available at market price.

The cantina will offer over 50 tequilas made from 100% Blue Agave, which will be showcased in a variety of tequila flights, along with signature margaritas, sangria and cocktails. The beer list will include Mexican imports by the bottle and six craft beers on draft. Taco Joint will provide Chicago’s first tequila lockers, offering guests the option to store bottles for future visits.

The restaurant will accommodate up to 70 guests at the bar, communal counters, low top tables and banquettes. The interior design combines natural wood accents and iron paired with colorful distressed walls and hand painted murals that encompass the feeling of a small town in Mexico. While the atmosphere is warm and rustic, the energy within the space will be lively and festive. Passersby can grab street fare to-go via Taco Joint’s storefront window, which will be open late-night throughout the winter season.

Follow and friend Taco Joint as they spontaneously surprise diners with free tacos and other exciting offers throughout the first few weeks of opening. The twitter and facebook feeds are listed below.

Taco Joint Urban Taqueria and Cantina: Regional Mexican Street Fare.

Dine In Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-Midnight; Friday 11:30am-2:00am; Saturday 11:30am-3:00am
Walk Up Window: Sunday-Friday 11:30am-2:00am; Saturday 11:30am-3:00am

Taco Joint
1969 North Halsted
Chicago, Illinois 60614
(312) 951-2457
www.tacojoint.com
twitter @TacoJointLP
facebook/Taco Joint