The best Mint Juleps in Chicago

Mint Juleps appearing on menus in Chicago is usually a good indication that spring has finally sprung, but there is no need to wait when you can enjoy it year-round at this old-timey French steakhouse in River North. Topped with loads of fresh mint (and with more muddled within), Bavette’s Mint Julep has the ideal balance of sweet to the buzz of potent bourbon. Bavette’s version packs a double punch, featuring both Evan Williams Bourbon and Appleton Rum. $13. —Rebecca Skoch

One of the best things about a Mint Julep is the pretty metal glasses they come in to keep them icy cold. Barrelhouse Flat has taken this tradition a step further and serves theirs in a beautiful stemmed cup to keep the ice from melting. This cocktail has a nice bourbon bite, which, depending on your take on bourbon (you can pick, we went with Old Grand Dad), will either slow down or speed up your drinking. $13. —EA

Beef & Barley offers a lighter take on a Mint Julep, combining Woodford Reserve with fresh lemon juice, mint and mint simple syrup, but it still gets the job done. It's especially good if whiskey isn't your liquor of choice and you still want to feel like you're at the races. $10. —EA

In the liquorette at the back of Dixie Chicago, you'll find the Improved Julep. It's a mix of overproof bourbon, chartreuse and burnt grappa, which gives it an herbaceous and fruity kick. $13. — EA.

This sweet take on a Mint Julep is dusted with a bit of powdered sugar so there's a bit of sweetness as you sip on the slushy añejo tequila. The ice melts quickly, diluting the cocktail, so bottoms up. $10. —Elizabeth Atkinson

For a sports bar, Derby doesn't feel particularly overwhelming or packed with overly enthusiastic fans. Hang out at the bar and watch your team—whether it's the horce races or something else entirely—over a drinkable Mint Julep with a hefty kick of mint and Bulleit bourbon. $11.50. —EA