PLAY Drink Beatnik, with locations in downtown and West Town, boasts a bohemian vibe and an eclectic menu.
CIT Y SIPS
El Guapo
There’s a story behind every drink. El Guapo, served at Beatnik in Chicago, tells a tale from beverage director Jesse Filkins’ childhood. “El Guapo,” Spanish for “handsome man,” was the nickname Filkins received from his grandfather, whose house was always stocked with clay cups and a bottle of tequila. In the summertime, they would sit on the porch eating snacks with Tajín, the tangy Mexican seasoning powder. Filkins knew then that when he grew up, he would drink tequila just like his grandfather. Well, maybe not just like his grandfather. He’s been fiddling with the recipe—tequila, Tajín, guava puree—and he recently perfected the drink by infusing its agave nectar with Fresno pepper and mint. This light, zesty cocktail is the story’s happy ending.
↑ MAKE IT In a shaker with ice, add 2 ounces tequila, ¾ ounce guava puree, ¾ ounce Fresno pepper and mint-infused agave nectar*, ½ ounce lime juice, and 3 dashes grapefruit bitters. Strain over a double old-fashioned glass, and sprinkle Tajín on top. 34 Southwest november 2019
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*In a pot, add 12 sprigs of mint, 6 Fresno peppers (cut into halves), 16 ounces agave nectar, and 16 ounces hot water. Bring the pot to a quick boil, then turn off the heat, and let it cool for an hour. Strain and refrigerate the nectar for storage. PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK CABRERA
10/8/19 3:40 PM