Gunner's margarita

Photo: Martha Williams

How does Gunner’s, a dimly lit Wicker Park spot that opened in early July and seems at first glance to have all the markings of a beer bar, turn out such a good margarita? The owners (and brothers) Eric and Dan Palm honed their skills for a combined 22 years at the Matchbox and the adjacent Silver Palm (770 N Milwaukee Ave, 312-666-9322). Though their new bar is a little less gritty and a lot more spacious, they’ve brought a taste of their past with them: They know how to make cocktails. The margarita ($8) has the Matchbox’s signature powdered-sugar rim that coats your lips like candy, and both the margarita and the gimlets are mixed with the maximum amount of fresh-squeezed lime juice, then shaken and poured tableside. Save the salud!-ing for the next door Salud Tequila Lounge, though: The Palm bros might make great margaritas, but their bar’s vibe is a little more Cheers. 1467 N Milwaukee Ave, 773-360-7650.

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