The Matchbox

If anything is going to send strong summer vibes to Chicago it’s a post about the vodka gimlet at The Matchbox. This remains my favorite warm-weather libation, and I was able to enjoy one during my visit to The Silver Palm last week. Vodka, pucker-worthy fresh squeezed lime juice, egg whites are shaken and poured into martini glass heavily laced with a sweet powdered sugar rim that can end up all over your jeans if you’re not careful. The house-made vodkas (infusin’ in jars behind the bar) from pineapple to apricot can also be served up gimlet-style, but I prefer the classic tart, sweet concoction either inside the tiny slice-of-a-bar or outside on the patio if you can score a seat. 770 N. Milwaukee Ave., 312.666.9292