Ten Bartenders Facing Off in 'Mixologist Mash-up'

If Wicker Park and Bucktown were crafted into a drink, what would it taste like?

That's exactly what event coordinators want participants in this year's Mixologist Mash-up to answer. Sponsored by the Wicker Park and Bucktown Chamber of Commerce, the March 28 event's tag line is the "Drink of Wicker Park Bucktown". It seeks to showcase the area's nightlife and mixology talents, according to the event invitation.

READ: Stiff Competition: Deadline Looms for Mixologist Showdown

Chamber Executive Director Adam Burck said via e-mail earlier this year that the idea for the mash-up emerged during a brainstorming session regarding events that could highlight the strengths of the area's businesses.

"One idea we discussed was creating a drink of Wicker Park Bucktown, so I pitched the idea of a mixologist competition," Burck said. "The marketing committee loved the idea and we worked together to craft the first year’s event. It was very well received by the attendees and the participating bars, so we knew we had a winner of an idea."

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This year marks the second for the showdown, he said. Ten bartenders from the following bars and restaurants have thrown their hats in the ring: Antique Taco, Club Lucky, Dolphin, Fatpour Tap Works, Lottie's Pub, Prasino, Red Door Kitchen & Bar, The Boundary, The Savoy and Wicker Park Tavern.

The ideal cocktail will "capture the unique spirit and palette of Wicker Park and Bucktown residents," coordinators said. Attendees will be able to try drinks from all of the participating mixologists, munch on appetizers and dance to jams from DJ Sean Vallely.

Follow this link to purchase tickets to this year's mash-up.

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