Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileGus' Sip & Dip
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Gus' Sip & Dip is a cocktail bar with a 30-item menu curated by Kevin Beary, all priced at a flat $12. The program spans classics like the Sazerac and Naked and Famous, plus house takes like the White Russian and Dirty Martini. Happy hour offers a $6 daily cocktail. The venue's recognition as No.27 on the 50 Best Bars in North America underscores its reputation.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Naked and Famous for a mezcal-forward balance, or the Sazerac for a rye-driven classic. The Hemingway Daiquiri showcases rum and grapefruit. For something richer, try the White Russian with espresso and hand-shaken cream. Non-alcoholic versions of several cocktails are available.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking a broad, well-executed menu at a uniform price will find value. The retro tavern atmosphere, praised by guests as intimate and ideal for dates, appeals to those wanting a classic, no-reservations bar experience.
- When should I go?
- Weekday evenings may have shorter waits, as the venue is walk-in only and can get busy on weekends.
- What should I expect to spend?
- All mixed drinks are $12. Beer is $8, and champagne is $20. Happy hour cocktails are $6. A 3.5% surcharge is added to checks but removable upon request.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The flat $12 pricing across a 30-cocktail menu is a standout, allowing exploration without price anxiety. The program, led by Kevin Beary, balances classic recipes with creative touches, earning a spot on the 50 Best Bars in North America list. The walk-in-only policy adds to its exclusive, no-frills charm.
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
Thirty cocktails at a flat $12, created by Kevin Beary, spanning classics and originals. Menu includes Cosmo, White Russian, Dirty Martini, Naked and Famous, Margarita, Sazerac, Hemingway Daiquiri, and Irish Coffee. Ranked No.27 on 50 Best Bars in North America.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive menu with 30 offerings across various spirit categories.
- — Flat pricing at $12 for all cocktails, perceived as exceptional value by guests.
- — Recognition as No.27 on 50 Best Bars in North America.
Standout selections
- — Naked and Famous – Rey Campero espadin mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, lime.
- — Sazerac – Knob Creek rye whiskey, cane sugar, absinthe.
- — Hemingway Daiquiri – Real McCoy light rum, maraschino liqueur, grapefruit, lime.
- — White Russian – Ketel One vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, hand-shaken cream.
Pricing: All mixed drinks $12; happy hour cocktail of the day $6.
Wine
Wine selection is minimal, limited to burgundy (red or white) and champagne. No specific varietals or regions provided beyond these categories.
Pricing: Champagne $20; burgundy price not specified.
Beer
Beer selection is basic, offering light or dark options and cider. No specific brands or styles are listed.
Standout selections
- — Beer – Light or dark, $8.
Pricing: Beer $8; cider price not specified.
Nonalcoholic
Several cocktails can be made without alcohol, indicated by underlined numbers on the menu. This provides inclusive options for non-drinkers, though specific names and prices are not detailed.
Standout selections
- — Non-alcoholic versions of select cocktails, marked on menu.
Spirits
The cocktail menu showcases a diverse range of premium spirits, including Ketel One vodka, Rey Campero mezcal, Siete Leguas tequila, Tanqueray gin, Peyrat cognac, Real McCoy rum, Buffalo Trace bourbon, and various whiskeys.
Menu strengths
- — Specific brands include well-regarded producers like Rey Campero and Siete Leguas.
Standout selections
- — Rey Campero espadin mezcal in Naked and Famous.
Pricing: No dedicated spirits list; prices only in cocktail context.
How it sits with the food
The beverage menu is designed to accompany Chef Bob Broskey's tavern dishes, though specific pairings are not detailed. The cocktail list's range—from spirit-forward Sazeracs to creamy White Russians—offers flexibility for matching with hearty bar food.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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