Monday, June 6
Ease into the week with gin and tonics and oysters at Chicago Distilling Company (2359 N. Milwaukee Ave., Logan Square, 872-206-2774), where $18 will get you a cocktail and seafood courtesy of Sink|Swim.
Today’s the start of Negroni Week, and if the gin, Campari, and vermouth combo isn’t quite your bag, you can get a twist on it via Tesori Trattoria and Bar (65 E. Adams St., Loop, 312-786-9911). Get a Boulevardier (basically the same drink, with bourbon swapped in for the gin) any day this week and a dollar of your drink’s cost will be donated to the United States Bartender’s Guild.
Friday, June 10
One of summer’s meatier traditions, Ribfest (at the intersection of Lincoln and Damen Avenues and Irving Park Road), kicks off today at 5 p.m. You’ll be able to get ribs from 15 different vendors (including Porkchop and Q BBQ) and cast your vote for your fave. Entry to the proteinpalooza is a $5 donation, but there are VIP packages offered here.
Saturday, June 11
Sample some of the city’s top mobile eats during this weekend’s Pilsen Food Truck Social, which takes place at the intersection of 18th and Allport Streets today and tomorrow. More than 25 trucks, such as Tamale Spaceship and La Cocinita, will be on hand, and for $20, you can get a ticket good for five food or drink samples. (There’s also a suggested $5 donation.) The event runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. both days.
Sunday, June 12
It’s backyard barbecue season at Sportsman’s Club (948 N. Western Ave., Ukrainian Village, 872-206-8054), and this weekend, you’ll be able to get a plate of food prepped by the kitchen crew at Presidio plus a beer for $20.