Indulge in the Unique Shallot-Infused Ten-Year Shaoxing Cocktail at Minyoli
If you’re looking for a drink that will make you exclaim, “Ah, meat!” then look no further than the shallot-infused Shaoxing cocktail at Minyoli, the Taiwanese noodle haven located in Andersonville. This hidden gem has been wowing patrons since its opening in May, offering a unique blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
The star of the show is the in-house infusion of sweet shallots and ten-year-aged Shaoxing, a type of glutinous rice wine hailing from the Zhejiang province in eastern China. The wine itself boasts a robust fermented soy flavor that is beautifully complemented by the delicate shallot, balanced out with Topo Chico, Taiwanese basil, and a generous splash of lime. The end result is a drink that exudes a meaty umami essence without the typical saltiness or pulpy textures of savory cocktails. Imagine the best Bloody Mary you’ve ever had, but with the refreshing zing of a limey Ranch Water. It pairs perfectly with the richness of Minyoli’s Spicy Tallow noodles or their tantalizing Da Hong Pao Sichuan Peppercorn G&T for those looking for an extra boozy kick.
Visually, the Shaoxing cocktail may seem unassuming at first glance. With a clear top resembling Sprite (thanks to the Topo) and a peachy amber hue at the bottom (courtesy of the Shaoxing), it’s a sight to behold. For the full experience of the sweet and savory medley, I recommend stirring it all up with a finger or, if you dare, a chopstick. Trust me, this is a drink that will have you ordering three more after just one sip.
The best way to enjoy this delightful concoction is on Minyoli’s back patio, where you can usually snag a spot without a reservation. Whether you want to relax with a book and some Ganban noodles or impress your date with a fancy yet affordable meal, the patio provides the perfect ambiance. The low hum of the blue bug-zappers adds a nostalgic touch as summer transitions to fall, making it an ideal setting to savor the last days of warmth.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drink that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more, head over to Minyoli and treat yourself to their shallot-infused ten-year Shaoxing cocktail. It’s a unique experience that you won’t soon forget.
Delve Deeper into Chicago’s Food Scene
As the summer season winds down, it’s the perfect time to explore Chicago’s vibrant food scene and discover hidden gems like Minyoli. Whether you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or simply want to indulge in delicious dishes and drinks, the Windy City has something for everyone.
From the revered to the reviled, Chicago’s food landscape offers a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re sipping on a signature Malört cocktail or supporting Black and Brown farmers at the Chicago Urban Ag Crawl, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in the city.
And let’s not forget about the cookbook clubs at the Chicago Public Library, where you can explore other cultures through the lens of food. These unique clubs offer a fun and educational way to expand your culinary horizons and connect with like-minded food enthusiasts.
Whether you’re craving halal southern-fried taqueria fare at Migos Fine Foods or looking to support Chicago’s urban food sovereignty ecosystem, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to explore in the city. So, take a bite out of Chicago’s delicious food scene and uncover the flavors that make this city truly special.