Hello readers,
Speed Rack returns to the Chicago area for the fifth year this Sunday, November 15. The national speed-bartending competition will kick off right here before continuing on the extended tour and will feature some of the city’s best female mixologists vying for the title of Miss Speed Rack. It all aims to benefit breast cancer charities, raising $350,000 globally since its inauguration, as well as raising the profile of women behind the bar, for which Chicago has plenty. The list of competitors includes:
Miranda Breedlove – Broken Shaker Chicago, Best Intentions & Four Corners Tavern Group
Meredith Ann Barry – Bar Ombra
Mony Bunni – Queen Mary Tavern
Julieta Campos – Berkshire Room
Jacyara de Oliveira – Sportsman’s Club
Julia K. Gordon – Lost Lake
Alyssa Heidt – The Violet Hour
Marissa Huth – Bordel
Nicole Jaskula – Pomp & Circumstance
Laura Kelton – Sportsman’s Club
Jessica Lambert – Sable Kitchen & Bar
Danielle Lewis – GT Fish & Oyster
Kristina Magro – Pub Royale
Julia Momose – Green River
Sarah O’Malley – Untitled Supper Club
Melissa Romanos – Nico Osteria
Adrienne Stoner – Lost Lake
Sarah Syman – The Dawson, Public Chicago Hotel
Each of the 20 mixologists will go head-to-head in timed rounds of cocktail making, stirring up recipes from 50 industry-standard classics. A panel of judges including Bridget Albert (director of mixology SWS, Helen David Foundation), Rachel Dowe (executive chef, The Betty), Micah Melton (beverage director, The Aviary in Chicago) and Paul McGee (owner and head bartender, Lost Lake Chicago) will then rate each drink based on accuracy and prep time.
Speed Rack takes place Sunday, November 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Thalia Hall Chicago, 1807 S. Allport Street in Chicago. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door and include cocktails from premium sponsors including Absolut Vodka, Altos Tequila, Bacardi Rum, Beefeater Gin and Four Roses Bourbon among others.
You can purchase tickets here.
Happy Planning!
Selena Fragassi
Editor
Illinois Meetings + Events
