KOVAL Distillery does not only produce delicious craft spirits, but they also are a city landmark. It's the first fully operational distillery in Chicago since the mid-1800s, founded by husband-wife duo Dr. Robert Birnecker and Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart. Before I heard about KOVAL, I met Sonat at a bar where the band The Dandy Warhols was hosting an aftershow. She was extremely personable and told me about her distillery. A few weeks later, I booked a tour and was amazed by the history and quality of the Birnecker's company.
KOVAL honors Sonat and Robert's ancestors. The word "koval" in Yiddish means "blacksmith" or someone who "forges ahead" and was also the nickname of Sonat's great-grandfather. Meanwhile, Robert's family has a history with Austrian distilling practices. Their grain-to-bottle approach alongside organic ingredients makes their liquor exceptionally fresh.
I'm not a fan of gin, but I wouldn't turn away from a KOVAL gin cocktail. Nor would I tell anyone in the Ravenswood neighborhood to turn away from a KOVAL distillery tour. A guide explains the KOVAL way while guests can sample several different kinds of spirits. If you like what you try, they have an on-site store to purchase bottles. You may also see various KOVAL products in Chicago liquor stores or featured in cocktails at local taverns.
It's the family-forward history, the natural ingredients, and the one-of-a-kind space in Chicago that makes KOVAL a favorite spot of mine.
Find your way with 114 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
From sweet egg custard buns to savory BBQ pork buns — to classic plates of noodles and soups, Sweet Cafe has all of your Chinese food favorites.
by
To conclude your meal I recommend Kanom tuay - Thai coconut milk custard that is surprisingly warm and absolutely incredible.
by
Tostini’s specialities are “tostini” sandwiches with different filling options such as veggie, chicken or köfte meatballs wrapped in pita bread.
by
Their chocolate croissant is flakey while still being chewy and buttery without being heavy. Verzenay also has a selection of macarons, quiches and more.
by
The first distinguishing feature of their Margherita pizzas is the tomato sauce — which tastes just like the blended tomatoes picked from a farm in Italy!
by
We ordered a hotpot of spicy broth, thick glass noodles, sesame balls, sweet glutenous rice balls, dumplings and I was very satisfied with the experience!
by
The park was once an abandoned rail yard named after Ping Tom, a civic leader who advocated for a park in Chinatown before he died in 1995.
by
Just a short bus ride or walk from West of Chinatown, you'll find a range of Asian groceries within a 80,000-foot, three-story interior of 88 Marketplace.
by
Orozco began making quesabirria tacos using his aunt’s recipe from Mexico and is now serving them to the Chicago community with enormous success.
by
Chicago's Pilsen community is known for its plethora of Mexican eateries. Those with a sweet tooth will delight in freshly made churros at Don Churro.
by
I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.
by
"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
by
114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 114 Insider Tips