Tip jar

Photo: Martha Williams

Q I was hoping you could steer me toward good places for frozen drinks. You’d be surprised how many bars don’t have blenders, and I always crave frozen drinks in the summer.—Becky M., Lakeview
A Pitcher after pitcher of mediocre, from-mix frozen libations can be found at a handful of spots around town, but finding a palatable (and potent) one just takes a little attention to ingredients. Besides the solid selection of empanadas on offer at La Fonda Latino Grill (5350 N Broadway, 773-271-3935), you’ll find a lovely frozen ’rita made with fresh-squeezed lime juice, top-shelf tequila and organic agave nectar. For something even more exotic, head to the partially solar-powered confines of Butterfly Social Club(722 W Grand Ave, 312-666-1695) for the frosty Jungle Cacao (pictured)—an energizing smoothielike mash-up of raw cacao, maca root (a Peruvian aphrodisiac), Tibetan goji berries, agave nectar, and more than 30 Amazonian roots and herbs—which, like all Butterfly’s cocktails, can be ordered with or without alcohol. Another option is Chaise Lounge(1840 W North Ave, 773-342-1840) and its peanut butter mocha, a blend of ice, peanut butter, Kahlúa, chocolate sauce and espresso that’s both a pick-me-up and a nightcap.—Jake Malooley

Send us all your food and drink questions—we can handle it. E-mail eatoutdrinkup@timeoutchicago.com.