Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileLazy Bird
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Lazy Bird pours a serious cocktail program from a subterranean lounge, with 52 drinks spanning clever signatures and reliable classics. The Unbound Archer and The Steadfast Goat show ambition, while a compact wine and beer list covers the basics. Spirit-free options get real attention too. Expect a lively, candlelit room where the drinks do the talking.
- What should I order?
- Start with The Unbound Archer, a tequila-based signature with cucumber and tomato. For something deeper, The Steadfast Goat layers Scotch with mushroom, beet, and absinthe. Classics are well represented—try the Sazerac or Last Word. Spirit-free drinkers should order The Mortal Son.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts looking for a deep menu with creative signatures will find plenty to explore. The intimate, candlelit setting with live music appeals to those seeking a speakeasy vibe. Guests who appreciate well-crafted classics and adventurous combinations will both be satisfied.
- When should I go?
- Tables are reservation-only and fill quickly, so early arrival is advised for bar seating. Walk-ins on band nights may incur a $10 cover.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $17 to $22, with signature drinks at the top. Wine by the glass starts at $15, beer from $8, and spirit-free cocktails at $16. A 4% surcharge is added to all checks.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The cocktail menu is unusually deep at 52 offerings, balancing inventive signatures with a solid classic list. The subterranean setting, complete with live music and private nooks, sets a distinct mood. The use of unusual ingredients like mushroom and beet in cocktails shows a willingness to take risks.
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 52-cocktail menu with creative signatures and well-executed classics. Prices are mid-range.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive menu with 52 options; Creative signature cocktails with unique ingredients
Standout selections
- — The Unbound Archer - Tequila Ocho Reposado, Ancho Reyes, Cucumber, Tomato ($22)
- — The Steadfast Goat - Monkey Shoulder Scotch, China China, Amaro Nonino, Suze, Mushroom, Beet, Basil, Lemon, Coconut Milk, Absinthe
- — The Curious Water-Bearer - Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Cynar, Chamomile, Blackberry, Lemon, Egg White, Peychaud's Bitters
Pricing: $17-$22
Wine
A concise wine list covering sparkling, white, red, and Champagne. Prices are moderate. Bottle options include well-known Champagnes.
Menu strengths
- — Includes sparkling and still options; Champagne bottles from $130 to $165
Standout selections
- — Moet & Chandon Imperial - Champagne ($27/$130)
- — Andre Clouet, Brut Reserve - Champagne ($165)
Pricing: $15-$27 by the glass; bottles $72-$165
Beer
A small beer list with a few standards and one hard seltzer. Prices are reasonable, but selection is limited.
Standout selections
- — High Noon - Hard seltzer ($12)
Pricing: $8-$12
Nonalcoholic
Two dedicated spirit-free cocktails plus bottled water. The cocktails are thoughtfully composed with botanical and citrus elements, priced at $16.
Standout selections
- — The Mortal Son - Pathfinder, Spearmint, Lime, American Ginseng, Coca-Cola ($16)
- — The Immortal Twin - Grapefruit, Hibiscus, Angelica Root, Gentian Extract, Lemon ($16)
Pricing: $16 for cocktails; $10 for water
Spirits
An extensive spirits list covering all major categories, including rare and limited edition bottles. Pricing spans a wide range, with high-end agave and whiskey options.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive spirits list with many categories; Includes rare and limited edition bottles
Standout selections
- — Clase Azul Reposado - Tequila ($65)
- — Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - World Whiskey ($60)
- — Macallan 12 Year - Scotch ($24)
Pricing: $14-$86 standard; $28-$675 limited editions
How it sits with the food
The cocktail program's savory and herbal notes, as in The Steadfast Goat, could pair well with rich, umami-driven dishes. The Unbound Archer's tomato and cucumber might complement lighter fare. Classic cocktails like the Sazerac are versatile with a range of bar snacks.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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