Everyone has an embarrassing tequila story and there’s no better way to start yours than by telling friends, “So we started off at Salud Tequila Lounge in Wicker Park.” This bar is just what the name promises – a place to drink tequila.
Once you arrive at Salud, 1471 N. Milwaukee Ave., you may be surprised that Jose Cuervo has so many friends. With more than 85 different tequilas to choose from, it’s easy to be overwhelmed, so start with a flight and sample a few. When you find one you like, try two-ounce pours or pick from a large selection of house specialty margaritas and tequila cocktails, such as the Tequila Mockingbird.
But one warning: Don’t expect this lounge to bring back wild memories of Spring Break in Cancun. At midnight Friday, the bar was far from packed and there was only one awkward guy dancing. There was a DJ who wasn’t spectacular and plenty of pretty people – which can be rare in this neighborhood. But if you’re looking for a place to just sit back and talk to said pretty people, this place has plenty of low couches.
Salud also holds monthly tequila dinners. For $35, patrons get a three-course meal, samples of featured tequilas and a tequila cocktail with each course. Plus, a representative from the month’s featured tequila will be there to discuss tequila – or embarrassing tequila stories. This weekend the lounge will feature Tres Generaciones, Sauza’s premium brand. Dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. To place a reservation, call (773) 235-5577.
Salud Tequila Lounge is open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Friday and from 5 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Saturday.
– Carrie MacQuaid
