
Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileCara Cara Club
Chicago, IL
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
Research completed 2026-09-06 · Based on current public sources
Menu evidence checked: 2026-08-01
Editor: Micah Rousey
Review methodology and evidence standardsThe editorial take
Cara Cara Club is a tropical aperitivo and amaro bar with a cocktail menu of 25 signatures and 35 classics, from Negroni Classico to CCC Old Fashioned. Aperitivo Hour drops select drinks to $12. The wine list leans low-intervention, and the beer list includes a Middlebrow collaboration. Non-alcoholic options mirror the amaro theme with Phony Negroni and Amaro Falso.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Aperitivo Hour Spritz at $12, then move to the Negroni Classico or Vieux Carre, both $15. For a broader survey, the Flight of 3 at $20 lets you sample the amaro and aperitif-led spirits list.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Amaro enthusiasts and cocktail drinkers who appreciate a deep classics list. The non-alcoholic selection also serves those seeking zero-proof versions of Negroni and amaro.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Signature and classic cocktails run $15, Aperitivo Hour drinks $12. Wine by the glass is $13–$16, bottles $65–$80. Beer is $3–$10, and non-alcoholic options $4–$12.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The bar brands itself as a tropical aperitivo and amaro bar, with a 60-drink cocktail list and a spirits program that highlights amari and aperitifs. A collaboration beer with Middlebrow Brewing adds a local touch.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A 60-drink cocktail list splits between 25 signatures and 35 classics, with amaro-forward drinks, spritzes, and aperitivos. Aperitivo Hour offers select cocktails at $12. A recent customer praised the cocktails as delicious and well-crafted.
Menu strengths
- — The list spans 25 signatures and 35 classics, offering serious range from Negroni Classico to CCC Old Fashioned.
- — Aperitivo Hour pricing at $12 encourages exploration of spritzes and aperitivo-style drinks.
Standout selections
- — Negroni Classico – $15; Vieux Carre – $15
Pricing: Signatures and classics $15; Aperitivo Hour $12
Wine
A compact but interesting wine list includes Txakolina, Rosé, Orange, Lambrusco, Fleurie, Nebbiolo, and Prosecco. Glass pours are reasonably priced, and bottle options offer value for the category.
Menu strengths
- — Selection includes low-intervention styles like Txakolina and Orange wine.
- — Bottle prices from $65 to $80 make sharing accessible.
Standout selections
- — Bixigu Txakolina – $15; Fleurie – $15; Nebbiolo – $16
Pricing: Glasses $13–$16; bottles $65–$80
Beer
Beer list runs from cheap classics like Hamm's and High Life to imports like Peroni and Guinness, plus a collaboration with Middlebrow Brewing. Prices are friendly, with most options under $10.
Menu strengths
- — Mix of affordable classics and craft options keeps the list approachable.
- — Collaboration beer with Middlebrow adds a local point of interest.
Standout selections
- — Middlebrow Bloc Party Cara Cara – $8; Guinness – $8
Pricing: $3–$10
Nonalcoholic
Non-alcoholic program includes zero-proof cocktails and spirits, with Phony Negroni and Amaro Falso echoing the bar's amaro theme. Prices are fair, topping out at $12.
Menu strengths
- — Offers creative zero-proof options that mirror the cocktail program's amaro focus.
- — Range from mixers at $5 to crafted alternatives at $12.
Standout selections
- — Phony Negroni – $12; Amaro Falso – $12
Pricing: $4–$12
Spirits
Spirits list spans amari, vermouth, sherry, scotch, tequila, and mezcal, with a Flight of 3 for sampling. Prices are reasonable, from $12 for Campari to $24 for Lagavulin 16.
Menu strengths
- — Focus on amari and aperitifs aligns with the bar's stated identity.
Standout selections
- — Flight of 3 – $20; Lagavulin 16 – $24
Pricing: Pours $12–$24; Flight of 3 $20
About this review
Research is based on recent public evidence, including official venue materials and beverage menus when available. The review date is the research completion date and does not imply an in-person visit.
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