10 Malört cocktails to try in Chicago right now

Ah, Malört. Opinions vary greatly on the city's most infamous liqueur but even if you're not a fan, you have to admire the creativity the best cocktail bars in Chicago exhibit in coming up with Malört-based cocktails. From riffs on classics to frozen slushies, there are a host of inventive, bitter concoctions. And if you want something simple, Stiegl Radler Grapefruit spiked with wormwood is an easy and refreshing DIY option. So without further ado, here are 10 Malört cocktails you need to try this summer.

The Wieners Circle

Chicago’s favorite late-night haunt for hot dogs and high jinks added a bar to its space in 2021, paving the way for a cocktail that lives up to the restaurant’s DGAF reputation. Hemingway’s Revenge, a riff on the Hemingway special, mixes rum and Malört with grapefruit juice, maraschino and a splash of lime juice. Complement an order of cheese fries with the cheeky concoction for the perfect Chicago nightcap.

Jinsei Motto

CH Distillery acquired Jeppson’s Malört in 2018, so it’s no surprise you’ll find the wormwood liqueur in a cocktail at the sushi restaurant located within its West Loop distillery. Dubbed Lilac Wine, the drink is made with CH’s London Dry Gin, Malört, CH Key Gin, green tea, grapefruit, thyme and shiso. And if it’s just a shot of Malört you’re after—well, there’s no better place to be.

The Violet Hour

One of Chicago’s first serious cocktail temples, this Wicker Park stalwart (named after a line of T.S. Eliot poetry) hasn’t lost its touch over the decades. The current menu features I’m the Problem, a self-described “Trailer Swift’s Dive Bar Floor Martini.” It’s made with Citadelle Gin, Lillet Blanc, Malört, Revolution Anti-Hero syrup, elderflower, grapefruit and saline (yes, saline). You don’t have to be a Swiftie to appreciate the dedication to the bit.

The Native

This neighborhood watering hole in Logan Square doesn’t offer much in the way of amenities, but its laid-back, divey vibes has earned it a flock of loyal regulars. The menu boasts alcoholic slushies, which are ideal for sipping during the summer on the back patio. The aptly-named Chicago Weather stars CH Gin and Malört alongside grapefruit, lemon lime and mango juice. Bring some bills—the bar is cash only.

Osito’s Tap

Located in the back of Moreno’s Liquors—which has sold hard-to-find tequila and mezcal in Little Village for more than 40 years—this lofty speakeasy leans into its locale with a robust selection of agave-focused cocktails. The Chicago Sling, though, is a local spin on the classic Singapore sling that incorporates KOVAL Cranberry Gin, Malört, maraschino, Grand Marnier and Angostura bitters, balanced with pineapple and lime.

Frontier 

Whole animal service is what Brian Jupiter’s West Town restaurant is best known for, but don’t sleep on the creative beverage menu. Pair that smoked alligator or wild boar with something equally adventurous—the Malört Greyhound cocktail. Made with St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, grapefruit and Malört, the drink may cause you to end up sleeping at the bus station if you have one too many (hence the name).

Brass Tack

Waldorf Astoria Chicago’s American brasserie offers one of the most appropriately-named wormwood cocktails we’ve seen. The Oh Malört features amaretto, lime and pineapple juices, and honey to temper the bitterness of the Malört. The drink, along with the rest of the menu, pays homage to some of the city’s most beloved staples and landmarks.

The Long Room 

Now over 20 years old, the Long Room is an enduring all-day concept that boasts a strong coffee and beer program, and hosts frequent food pop-ups. Of course, if you want a cocktail, there are plenty of options, including the Big Boulders—a Malört-infused drink with Four Roses Bourbon, Dolin Rouge Vermouth, Amaro Nonino and Angostura bitters.

Tied House

The restaurant attached to Schubas Tavern isn’t just a spot for pre-show drinks—the food and beverage program is worth checking out, no matter the occasion. Wash down the refined New American fare with a cocktail like the Malört and Savior, a blend of Panama-Pacific 9 Year Rum, grenadine and barrel-aged Malört.

Watershed

Have you ever had a margarita and thought, “This would be even better with Malört”? No? Well the mad geniuses at this River North speakeasy did, and turned it into reality. The Malört-A-Rita is a triple threat of mezcal, tequila and wormwood liqueur, plus grapefruit and lime. Pucker up.