Chicago isn't known for weak drinks. On the contrary, we're famous for our over-the-top cocktails, boozy breakfast scene and boilermakers (who doesn't wash down a shot with a beer?). But for those special occasions when you want to take it slow and avoid dealing with a hangover the next morning, look no further than these low-octane cocktails. Fit for day-drinking in the sun or a low-key evening out, these sippers still offer quality ingredients and great flavors—they just go easy on the booze.
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Grab a seat at this industrial-chic rooftop bar and lounge and ask for the Fernet Lola and Cola, a sweet cocktail that's light on booze and easy on the eyes. The custom-made fernet is crafted with a fruit base, which results in a smoother, sweeter experience.
Sit back and sip the day away like the Italians do. Monteverde's Arancia Spritz is packed with effervescent citrusy flavor. The concoction includes Carpano Antica, orange Curacao, prosecco and Angostura.
An impossibly refreshing mix of gin and blood orange tonic is made even more delightful with a splash of carbonated green tea. The result is an herbaceous, citrus-fueled cocktail that's perfect for long conversations at the bar.
This sparkling sipper is an easy aperitif that seamlessly blends Spanish sherry, grapefruit and elderflower liqueurs, Jamaican bitters and a pour of prosecco. It's so light and delicate that you won't feel guilty throwing one back over the lunch hour.
Pretty and tasty, this pink-hued number is a perfect storm of red berry-infused Imbue Petal & Thorn vermouth and rose water.
This tall glass of summer is a mix of riesling, snap pea syrup, rum and lime. It's light, slightly vegetal and 100 percent guilt-free.
Crafted with day-drinking in mind, this beer mimosa is made with blueberry-ginger demerara, tarragon and Off Color Brewing Apex Predator. We bet you can't have just one.
You can't go wrong with this Wicker Park cafe's namesake beverage, and lucky for you, there are a few to choose from. The classic variety mixes vermouth, Don Ciccio Aperitivo and soda for a patio-friendly cocktail that's fit for a hot day in the sun.
A sandwich shop with cocktails? Sign us up for a lunch date. The Michelada Mestizo is a Nicaraguan-style cocktail that blends Pacifico, lime, mescal and house-made Michelada mix. Surprise ingredients include Worcestershire and tangy salsa Lizano.
Celebrate summer with a low-octane blend of vodka, muddled strawberries and basil, lemon juice and simple syrup. This one is best enjoyed on the patio.
The Loop food hall's bar is the place to be for happy hour and guiltless lunch cocktails. If you're seeking something that's light on the booze, opt for the Bamboo, a mix of sherry, dry vermouth, Angostura bitters, orange bitters and a dash of cane sugar.
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