Behind The Bar At Scofflaw Chicago

Nestled in the heart of Logan Square, Scofflaw is a cozy-yet-sophisticated bar that boasts Instagram-worthy cocktails and exquisite menu pairings. Its Victorian-style decor, roaring fireplaces and watercolor menus make the bar a must-visit destination on the Northwest side of Chicago.

But Scofflaw's bar manager Luke DeYoung says the gin-focused joint's biggest appeal is its bespoke-yet-approachable drinks. "We try to put high quality product on our cocktail list, but at a price point that feels more like a casual neighborhood bar," he says. In other words, Chicagoans can indulge in the bar's unique signature sips without breaking the bank.

And the bar's menu pairings are every bit as mouthwatering as its boozy beverage list. "Executive Chef Gabriel Freeman has really done an awesome job of creating dishes that share the same ethos as Scofflaw’s cocktails: great products at great value," says DeYoung. (Current must-tries include the sorghum-coated Brussels sprouts and the pastrami-spiced lamb ribs, which DeYoung advises you pair with a gimlet.)

Since the team is always working to develop cocktail lists inspired by what they're enjoying at the moment, fresh menus are released each season. "One of the drinks I'm most excited about on our new winter menu is the Swizzle #27," says DeYoung. "I was amazed at how well it played with grapefruit and cinnamon, plus it’s a pretty cocktail to look at, as well."

DeYoung kindly gave Patch the secret Swizzle #27 recipe so that you can try at home this weekend — if you're not cozying up to the bar at Scofflaw, that is. Take a look at the tiki-inspired drink that you won't be able to resist, straight from behind the bar of Scofflaw.

Scofflaw's Signature Cocktail Recipe: Swizzle #27

Ingredients

• 1.25 oz. Bols Genever
• .5 oz. Brovo Lucky Falernum
• .5 oz. grapefruit juice
• .5 oz. lime juice
• .75 oz. cinnamon syrup
• 4 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters

Instructions: Pour ingredients into highball glass with crushed ice and swizzle with cocktail spoon; garnish with cocktail parasol.

Main Image Credit: Jude Goergen