Elixir

On our first night in Boystown, Jamie W and I were pretty overwhelmed by the crowds at Sidetrack and Roscoe's, so we ended up coming here to make Jamie's virginal gay bar debut. It was the right move because it had the kind of chill vibe we were seeking after a long flight from SFO. Fortunately there were two seats at the bar with our names on them. Figuratively speaking.They had quite a signature cocktail list on hand, and we felt it was our obligation to try as many as we could. At least that was what we said to ourselves as the evening wore on. Each cocktail was $14. We started with a couple of familiar libations. Jamie ordered the Mint Julep, a delightfully Deep South mix of bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint (photo: https://yelp.to/u-td8LdPLj).I went further south with the Pineapple Margarita which was emboldened by a tropically potent mix of pineapple infused tequila, lime juice, and agave (photo: https://yelp.to/V-Sf6Q_2qK). We got a bit bolder with our second round and found mixed results. Jamie had the Not Your Mom's Daiquiri which amped up the margarita by blending pineapple-infused tequila with Bacardi 8-year rum.Along with fresh lime and simple syrup, this one definitely had more of a kick (photo: https://yelp.to/1ZijDf6wMV). However, my order, the Pontiac Pony, was a spicy miss for me. It was a rather oddball mix of apple-cinnamon infused vodka, pear liqueur, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and ginger beer (photo: https://yelp.to/5dQoFdzG98). There was just a harshness that didn't sit well on my tongue. Oh well, the mellow vibe was cool.COCKTAILS - 4 stars...three out of four cocktails were aces, just one clinkerAMBIANCE - 4 stars...very chill, fairly quiet for BoystownSERVICE - 4 stars...cool bartendersTOTAL - 4 stars...check it out when you take a break from your Boystown cruisingRELATED - Exploring Chicago? Here's my collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/44c4CZO

I love coming to elixir. It is a small bar with really chill vibes. feels very upscale and has amazing drinks. the bartenders have also always been great. always bring my friends here to start off the night.

Remember how Halsted used to have several bars for grown-ups? There are not many places left that aren't about booming music and tedious club drinks.Elixir is a perfect bar to continue the evening after dinner is over, but you want to continue the dinner conversation.Music is moderately loud, but it still feels cozy and comfortable. Comfortable in a very draped-in-velvet way. Not comfortable in a sweatpants way.The mixology is absolutely expert. Had a mezcal and apricot liqueur cocktail last night. It's so easy for mezcal to go sideways in a drink. This was perfect. Service was fast, fun, and attentive. Although we were there with regulars, so no guarantees on that front.Elixir is definitely a place I'll be happy to return to, and I haven't felt that way about a bar on Halsted for a long time.

We popped in here for a drink before calling it an early night. The cocktail selection is intriguing and they know their mixology.The decor is really nice. A previous reviewer described it as "old word elegance." I agree with that to a point, the design certainly has a modern feel to it, but I concur that it is elegant.Even though it wasn't packed, we did have to wait a bit to order and then to get the drinks. It may be a result of the staffing shortage that has been plaguing the hospitality industry.

Have been here a few times and enjoyed it every time. Management has a great way to make you feel like family at each visit. The dirty martini is one of the best I've had. The atmosphere and music are a nice break from the normal partying atmosphere of most bars in boystown yet the vibe is still upbeat.

Classy, hidden romantic gem of nice cocktails and martinis that is ALL affordably priced at $11. See $8 Specials on Tips.APPLE CRISP MARTINI was strong equalized with strong tarty Apple and flavorful cinnamon.5-star Service from Chad (say Hello, Friends!).SNACK of pretzels and nuts is available upon request.Automatic water back in a bottle.Plenty of comfortable SEATING. Spacious well ventilated RESTROOM.

Exquisite gem on halsted street. Old world elegance meets modern beverages. Not just a bar, but an experience. I felt like a Queen! The drinks were good too!

Nice classy bar with craft cocktails .Small with 8 tables and bar seating .Very nice late night or after dinner place to have a relaxing drink .

First time coming to this hidden gem. I absolutely adore the mermaid/merman under the sea theme and cocktails to compliment the theme. I would like to praise Brett for treating my group like royalty, made sure we were taken care of the entire night. He's the true hero in this story. I can't wait to come back.

Great service, great martinis, and perfect location. Will frequent!Seating is limited, but I love the close atmosphere.