Photo courtesy Celeste.

DESIGNER SIPS: CELESTE

Didn’t think your cocktail could stand up to the design factor in Chicago? Guess again. The ones served up behind the bar at Celeste’s three-storey home are nothing short of works of art. Head up to the second floor to the gilded Deco Room, pull up to the bar, and pick from one of the unique, expertly crafted cocktails. Can’t decide? Their menu divides the sippers by levels of intrigue and intensity – Waxing Crescent cocktails are great for beginners, Half Orb cocktails take it up a notch, and the Full Moon selects deliver the ultimate experience. Our top picks? The spiced Hidden Gem (a mix of rum, grappa, pineapple syrup, tea and cardamom bitters) and the refreshing, bright citrus Kisa Drykkur (vodka splashed with Cocchi Americano, grapefruit juice and a drop of honey).