Must-Visit Whiskey and Cocktail Wonderland in Chicago

Shaun Melady
3 min readAug 24, 2024
Chicago’s Sepia Cocktail Bar and Restaurant — Photo by: Sepia Chicago

In the heart of Chicago’s West Loop, Sepia, a Michelin-starred gem, is shaking up the cocktail scene. Forget your classic Old Fashioned; Beverage Director Keith Meicher’s innovative whiskey creations are anything but ordinary.

Reimagining Whiskey Cocktails
Meicher doesn’t just mix drinks — he crafts stories in a glass. Often drawing inspiration from historical events or pop culture, his cocktails are an invitation to embark on a flavor journey.

Take “There’s Always Yen In The Banana Stand,” a playful nod to Arrested Development. This bold concoction blends Japanese whiskey with curry, banana, Pisco, lemon, and a touch of frozen banana puree. A brûléed banana peel rim adds a whimsical touch, and the price, listed in yen, completes the playful theme.

Chicago’s Sepia Cocktail Bar and Restaurant — Photo by: Sepia Chicago

History Meets Mixology
The “Whiskey Rebellion,” inspired by the 1790s tax protest, offers a vibrant…

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Shaun Melady
Shaun Melady

Written by Shaun Melady

Journalist & content creator featured in top pubs. Actor, model & writer. Follow on social @ShaunMelady.

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