"The Aviary is the special occasion West Loop cocktail bar. It’s from the same owners as Alinea, complete with elaborate, Alinea-esque drinks on the menu. Cocktails start around $28, and vary in terms of how much they look like science experiments. The Jungle Bird has little clear tapioca-like balls filled with rum that pop in your mouth, and the Old Fashioned comes in a ball of ice you need to snap with a rubber band. Make a reservation if you're hoping to stop by on the weekend. You can also try walking in, as long as you're OK with a wait. Just use that time to rearrange your monthly budget in preparation of a night here." - nick allen, john ringor, adrian kane
The Aviary