Chicago's Best Summer Soiree Ideas with Signature Cocktails

As the golden hour stretches longer in the summer and the air grows heavy with the scent of blooming jasmine and distant grills, there’s one sure way to turn a summer gathering in Chicago into an unforgettable experience: signature cocktails.

If you’re planning a dinner party, a backyard celebration, or a simple get-together that deserves just a little extra magic, the drinks you serve can shape the entire experience. Not just any drinks, though, we’re talking about cocktails that tell a story, connect to the season and make people pause mid-conversation to say: what is in this?

Crafting those kinds of moments is what we do at Vendador. While we’re known for our culinary experiences with chef-curated tasting menus and intimate al fresco dining, our beverage program brings the same level of care and creativity to your glass. Here are a few that speak the language of summer.

Something light and green and unexpectedly refreshing..

Imagine a glass that smells like the garden: cucumber, fennel, and a whisper of Champagne vinegar. The Pemberley Cup is what we’d serve at a midsummer brunch under the trees, with bees drifting lazily through the air and laughter bouncing off the hedges. It’s non-alcoholic, but feels like a celebration.

Best paired with: Garden luncheons, bridal teas, or family-style chef’s tables under the sun.

Something bubbly and floral that feels like golden hour...

We have In Bloom, a peach-chamomile sparkler that practically glows in the glass. It’s what you’d want in hand just as the sun dips below the rooftops, when the cicadas start singing and the string lights flicker on. Soft, elegant, a little dreamy.

Best paired with: Cocktail hour in a city courtyard, floral tasting menus, or a bridal shower brunch.

Something salty and sun-kissed...

Sunkissed & Salty reminds us of those late August evenings when the heat still clings to the pavement, but a breeze tells you fall isn’t far off. With watermelon, coconut oil, a hit of tequila, and a spicy jalapeño rim, it’s the kind of drink that surprises you—in the best way.

Best paired with: Al fresco taco stations, modern BBQ menus, or bold summer bites in Pilsen or Wicker Park.

Something playful and tropical that makes you feel far away...

If you’ve ever wished you could teleport to a poolside cabana mid-party, Beach Read is that escape in a coupe glass. It’s mango, pineapple, paw paw and cava—fruity, funky, fun. Like a vacation, minus the airport.

Best paired with: Sunset happy hours, West Loop garden parties, or creative multi-course experiences.

Something botanical and elegant to open the night...

And then, when the night is just beginning and everyone’s found their seat, Evernoon comes out. Cognac and tonic with a gentle jasmine-basil finish. It’s smooth and grounded, the kind of drink you sip slowly as conversation begins to unravel into something memorable.

Best paired with: Tasting menus, sunset gatherings, or pre-dinner aperitivo moments.

Make This Summer One to Remember

Summer is short in Chicago. But that’s what makes it special.

It’s a time to slow down, to gather outside, and to celebrate, not just the big things, but the everyday ones too.

If you're dreaming of a dinner party that feels elevated without being over-the-top, a cocktail hour that starts with “wow,” or simply a moment to be present with the people you love, we’d be honored to help make it happen.

Explore our seasonal cocktails, browse our private dining menus, or reach out to start planning your own unforgettable summer soirée.