Behind The Bar: Young American's Ode To Bobby Recipe

Young American
2545 N Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL, 60647

There are plenty of incredible cocktail destinations to stop by for a drink in Logan Square. But Young American, an inviting bar that was once a neighborhood diner, doubles as a thoughtfully curated showcase of local art. With antiqued French wall panels, intimate high tops and clean-lined concrete elements, it's a prime spot for casual, wine-fueled dinners and late-night dance parties.

While there's a saturation of notable bars lining the lively square, Young American's beverage director Julia McKinley says the key to success is "staying relevant." And the elegant establishment does just that by incorporating fortified wines, liqueurs, seasonal ingredients and even CBD-infused drinks into their hand-picked beverage menu.

The bar's signature cocktail, Hey High Hello, embodies this inclusive philosophy and was actually the first cocktail McKinley finished for the menu. "It incorporates two fortified wines, a small amount of a potent and complex Japanese gin and a bitter lemon tonic," says McKinley.

Even their non-alcoholic beverages are sophisticated and crafted with care. "Our menu is inclusive by design, including low proof and spirit-free options," says McKinley. "We're not the only bar that does this, but we have put a lot of thought and energy into the spirit-frees."

If you're planning on heading to the hip Logan Square joint, make sure to pair your cocktail of choice with McKinley's favorite dish: the savory and herbaceous Brussels sprouts made by Chef Nick Jirasek. Looking to stay home this weekend? McKinley so generously gave us a delectable cocktail recipe for you to whip up yourself, straight from behind the bar at Young American:

Young American's Ode to Bobby

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. blended Scotch
• .5 oz. dry vermouth
• .5 oz. sweet vermouth
• .25 oz. Nardini Amaro

Directions: Measure ingredients into a mixing glass and add ice to cover the liquid. Stir until chilled. Serve straight up in a coupe or nick and nora. Express a lemon peel over the cocktail and enjoy.