Part of what I love about this job is…well, everything. I get to hang out with cool people, eat great food and drink fabulous cocktails. Last week, I was asked to come in for a margarita tasting. Um, YES. And I like them on the rocks with salt, please. Could I be any more accommodating?
I zipped down to May St. Cafe in the trendy Pilson neighborhood to hang with the chef for lunch. Trying to appear professional for the tasting, I popped open my laptop to take notes. Yeah, OK…slide the Mac to the end of the bar and replace it with some tumblers. I drink tequila but how much do I really know about it? Not much other than I like to consume it…on the rocks as some type of “rita”, most any will do. I’m not a picky margarita drinker.
Before getting to the drinks, I learned a little background info on distilled vs. aged. Most importantly, by Mexican law, tequila must be at least 51% agave to be labeled TEQUILA. The stuff we were drinking was 100% agave from 3 Garcias, distilled and aged. The distilled tequila is clear. The longer it ages, the more expensive tequila is and you will taste notes of honey from the oak barrels. Then, Chef Mario Santiago pulled out his new list he concocted for the month of May specials in honor of their 9 year anniversary. Not only are the drinks good, really good, but for the entire month of May, the margaritas are only $5! These are the real thing. NO mixes. Each margarita is made with 3G tequila, fresh squeezed lime juice and simple syrup along with some special flavors:
Pineapple and Mango, a blend of fresh pineapple and mango purée mix
Guava Rita, pureed guava and mint
Coco Rita, coconut milk and coconut salted rim and flakes
Besame Mucho "Rita", a blend of cranberry and raspberry garnished witha cherry and lime
Jalapeno and Cilantro Margo, muddled fresh jalapeno and garden fresh cilantro
Cucumber, muddled cucumber
I am just putting this out there, Beauty and Her Feast strongly endorses the Coco Rita! Just saying. And as soon as our crazy Chicago weather decides to give us a break, Chef Santiago is opening his patio for some new small plates and cocktails. While the entire menu will be available, May St. Cafe has decided to offer some smaller dishes for tasting. So, for all those summer fairs and hot days you need a place to hang with your friends, May St. Cafe has a great patio in Pilsen away from the crowds.
May St. Cafe is located at
1146 W. Cermak, Chicago
312.421.4442