Properly Sauced: The "High Noon" at Michael Jordan's Steakhouse

By Anthony Todd in Food on Dec 20, 2011 7:20PM

We knew that Michael Jordan's Steakhouse was pretty and their steaks were thick, but until a recent visit, we had no idea that they had notable cocktails. With mixologist Peter Vestinos on board, we should have known better.

Vestinos was a star of the Chicago mixology scene (mixing up drinks at Sepia, NoMi and Naha) until he left for San Francisco in mid-2010. He returned to create the seasonal cocktail menu at Michael Jordan's Steakhouse, and the drinks definitely show the touch of an expert. This cocktail, the High Noon, mixes together some classic "old west" ingredients - bourbon, sarsaparilla - and then adds some modern twists. It goes down very smooth; a perfect winter party cocktail, since even bourbon haters will be able to enjoy it.

High Noon Cocktail

1.5 oz Jim Beam Black
.75 oz Lemon juice
.75 oz Benedictine
.75 oz Honey Syrup (2 parts Honey, 1 part water)
2 Dashes Peychauds Bitters
2 Dashes Angostura bitters

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake, then strain into a Collins or Highball Glass - there will be plenty of room left over. Add Sarsaparilla soda and ice to fill the glass, then stir. Garnish with brandied cherries.

Michael Jordan's uses a homemade sarsaparilla, but a bottled brand works just fine. Any craft root beer or birch beer also works - make sure it's got plenty of licorice flavor and herbal notes.

Michael Jordan's Steakhouse is located at 505 N. Michigan Ave.