Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileSportsman's Club
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Sportsman's Club runs a daily rotating cocktail menu built on balance and simplicity, with spirit-forward drinks like the House Barrel Old Fashioned and the amaro-driven Amaro Machine. The bar's carry-out liquor program and amaro machine add a distinctive retail edge. A compact wine list and a draft and bottle selection ranging from $3 to $7 round out the program.
- What should I order?
- Start with the House Barrel Old Fashioned ($12) for a barrel-aged take, or the Bourbon Amaro Sour ($10). For a bargain, the Amaro Machine at $4 delivers amaro character. The Spaghett, a Miller High Life and Aperol mix, is a community favorite. Beer drinkers can grab a High Life for $3.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail purists seeking classic, spirit-forward drinks will appreciate the rotating menu. Budget-minded drinkers will find value in the $4 to $12 range. Those interested in amaro or carry-out liquor will find a unique niche. The cozy, rustic atmosphere with vintage booths and a leafy patio appeals to those wanting a relaxed neighborhood spot.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal for the full cocktail menu. The spacious back patio is popular during summer pop-ups and barbecue series, making it a prime warm-weather destination.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $4 to $12, with most in the $8-$12 bracket. Beer runs $3 to $7, and wine is listed at $20 and $35, likely per bottle or glass.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The daily rotating cocktail menu is a commitment to freshness and simplicity. The carry-out liquor program and amaro machine set it apart from typical bars. The original art deco bar and vintage checkerboard booths, plus a spacious leafy patio, create a distinctive setting.
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 daily rotating menu of classically inspired, spirit-forward cocktails emphasizing balance and simplicity. Standouts include the House Barrel Old Fashioned, Bourbon Amaro Sour, and the community-praised Spaghett. Pricing is accessible, with several options under $10.
Menu strengths
- — Daily rotating menu keeps the selection fresh and encourages repeat visits.
- — Spirit-forward focus with balanced, simple execution.; Reasonable pricing, with several cocktails under $10.
Standout selections
- — House Barrel Old Fashioned ($12) - barrel-aged twist on a classic.
- — Bourbon Amaro Sour ($10) - bourbon and amaro combine for a sour profile.
- — Spaghett - Miller High Life and Aperol, a community favorite.
Pricing: Cocktails $4-$12, with House Barrel Old Fashioned at $12 and Amaro Machine at $4.
Wine
A compact wine list with vintage-dated reds and whites. Selections include Barbera/Nebbiolo 2011, Malbec 2012, Syrah 2012, and whites like Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2013 and Pinot Grigio 2013. Pricing appears moderate.
Menu strengths
- — Vintage details provided for each wine.; Includes both red and white options.
Standout selections
- — Barbera/Nebbiolo 2011 - a red blend with vintage specificity.
- — Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2013 - a white blend offering freshness.
Pricing: Wine prices listed at $35 and $20.
Beer
A diverse draft and bottled beer list with local and classic options. Draft highlights include FFF Zombie Dust, Moody Tongue Caramel Churro Porter, and Off Color Scurry (Nitro). Bottles include High Life for $3 and Bell's Two Hearted. Pricing is budget-friendly.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse draft selection including local craft and nitro stout.
- — Bottled classics at low price points (High Life $3).
Standout selections
- — Moody Tongue Caramel Churro Porter - a dessert-like porter.
- — Off Color Scurry (Nitro) - nitro stout for a creamy texture.
- — High Life / Hamm's ($3) - classic cheap beer.
Pricing: Beer prices range from $3 to $7.
Spirits
Spirits program is evidenced by the carry-out liquor program and amaro machine. Spirit-forward cocktails and ingredients like rum, sherry, and bitters indicate a focus on quality spirits. No detailed list or pricing is available.
Menu strengths
- — Carry-out liquor program offers bottles to go.; Amaro machine provides a unique amaro-focused offering.
Standout selections
- — Amaro Machine ($4) - amaro-based cocktail at an accessible price.
- — Gin Aperitif Wine Lime Falernum - complex mix of gin, aperitif, wine, lime, and falernum.
- — Rums Sherry Bitters - combines rums, sherry, and bitters.
Pricing: No specific spirits pricing available.
How it sits with the food
No food menu is documented, but the bar's summer barbecue series suggests a pairing of smoky meats with the amaro-forward cocktails or the malty Moody Tongue Caramel Churro Porter.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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