The Aviary (bar)

The Aviary is a cocktail bar located in Chicago, Illinois, known for its innovative and avant-garde approach to cocktail creation and presentation. Established by Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas, the same team behind Alinea and Next restaurants, The Aviary aims to redefine the cocktail experience through culinary techniques and theatrical presentation.

The bar is characterized by its elaborate cocktails, often incorporating unusual ingredients, cutting-edge equipment, and unconventional serving vessels. Examples include cocktails served inside ice spheres that must be broken to release the drink, or cocktails that are cooked sous vide. The focus is on engaging multiple senses – sight, smell, and taste – to create a holistic and memorable experience for patrons.

The Aviary also offers a "Kitchen Table" experience, providing a more intimate and curated tasting menu. This allows guests to observe the bartenders creating the cocktails and learn about the inspiration and techniques behind each drink. The bar has received numerous accolades and is considered one of the most influential cocktail bars in the world, contributing significantly to the development of modern mixology.