On a hot and humid summer afternoon recently in Chicago, I slipped into the James Hotel for a break from the heat and throngs of tourists on Michigan Ave’s miracle mile.  I took a seat at the Primehouse Bar, an extension of David Burke Primehouse Restaurant (rated one of the top steak houses in the U.S.) located in the lobby.  I immediately felt transported as the chill of the air conditioner and the hurried calm of the pre-dinner service staff rustling about surrounded me.  Gianvito aka Gianni let me peruse a cocktail menu and food menu.  The innovative cocktail menu lists many interesting craft concoctions. Guests can also order signature menu items to enjoy right at the bar.  There were a few other patrons at the bar and Gianni was explaining to one couple what made the dry-aged in salt tiled rooms (special process unique to David Burke) steaks so incredible.   Almost made me want to order a steak, but all I really desired was an amazing cocktail to quench my thirst from the heat.

Some of the drinks that looked intriguing included The James (sobieski raspberry, elderflower liqueur) and Thyme in a Bottle (hendrick’s gin, blueberry lavender cello, thyme, lemon), but one specific drink caught my attention and I knew I had to have it…El Mariachi!

El Mariachi is made with maestro dobel tequila, chartreuse, yellow pepper, cilantro, ginger, and lime juice and served in a chilled martini glass.  It is a masterfully complex and delicious cocktail!  It is crisp, invigorating, and a little spicy.  The cilantro and heat linger on the tongue.   I sipped it and relaxed in the calm away from the hustle and bustle of everything going on around me and outside in the world.

Now that is what a good cocktail should do and El Mariachi is one of the best I’ve ever had!