It’s pretty easy to fall into a rut, cocktail-wise: Muddling, shaking and stirring are hardly worth it if you’re casually drinking or catching up with friends. Luckily, some of the best cocktails in Evanstons are restaurant specialty beverages waiting to be improved with some creativity. Get to know our favorite booze-infused Evanston drinks.
Andy’s Frozen Custard
Andy’s and Andes: There’s no such thing as too much mint, especially when it’s combined with custard and alcohol. For an Evanston rendition of the grasshopper, add créme de menthe or créme de cacao to an Andy’s Mint Chip Concrete. For an added burst of mint chocolate, top with Andes mints or something comparable, like York Peppermint Patties.
Joy Yee
White Sangria: You could order sangria at a bunch of restaurants in Evanston, but then someone else will decide how much wine goes into the cocktail, and that’s no good. While red wine sangria is more commonly served, white sangria is just as tasty. Order the peach strawberry freeze and add white wine until you’re satisfied.
Mumbai Grill
Classy Lassi: Lassi is a sweet yogurt drink—think Yoplait smoothie—that can be flavored with all sorts of fruits. Mumbai Grill makes a great mango lassi, but you can make it even better by adding vanilla vodka. For a fruitier taste, try Grand Marnier to create an orange-mango smoothie. If you’re looking for acheaper liquor, try a lower-shelf raspberry vodka.
Unicorn Cafe
Cider with Whiskey: Everyone else at this Evanston favorite might be quietly working on papers, but there’s no reason you can’t get your drink on while they toil away. For a special fall drink, skip the pumpkin spice latte and order an apple cider. If you take your cider cold, add Fireball Whisky. If you want a warm cocktail, get hot cider and add spiced rum.