KOVAL Tasting Room

Cocktail bar · South East Ravenswood

KOVAL Tasting Room

Cocktail bar · South East Ravenswood

3

4241 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

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KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by Koval Distillery
KOVAL Tasting Room by KOVAL Tasting Room
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null
KOVAL Tasting Room by null

Highlights

Organic spirits, whiskey, gin, liqueurs, brandy, vodka tasting  

Featured in Eater
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4241 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 Get directions

koval-distillery.com
@kovaldistillery

$$ · Menu

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4241 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 Get directions

+1 312 878 7988
koval-distillery.com
@kovaldistillery
𝕏
@kovaldistillery

$$ · Menu

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Last updated

Oct 18, 2025

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@eater

The Best Places to Drink Along Malt Row in Ravenswood | Eater Chicago

"Koval Distillery operates a loungy tasting room attached to its production distillery, allowing visitors to take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn how their small-batch gin and whiskey are made and then try the finished product straight and in a cocktail. Kick back on the patio with a cranberry gin spritz or barrel-aged Manhattan while snacking on Garrett popcorn or delivery. Koval also hosts cocktail classes and craft workshops." - Sam Nelson

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/malt-row-breweries-ravenswood-beer-taproom
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@eater

10 Great Chicago distilleries with tasting rooms | Eater Chicago

"The Koval campus has it all: tours, classes, a tasting room, and even a store where visitors can pick up bottles to take home. The Ravenswood mainstay is best known for its gin and whiskies: the bourbon is rightly popular, but make sure to check out the more uncommon millet and oat varieties as well. Specialty liqueurs like coffee, rose hip, and ginger mix things up a bit." - Adam Rothbarth

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/chicago-best-distillery-spirits-liquor-alcohol-tasting-rooms
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@eater

Where to Drink Outdoors in Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, and North Center | Eater Chicago

"KOVAL just opened its patio for the first time, an elevated spot in the back of the space surrounded by ivy and shaded by umbrellas. At the bar, the distillery shows off its spirits in summery cocktails like a frozen cucumber gimlet or a mule made with vodka, bourbon, or gin. The space will also host cocktail classes, offering visitors a chance to learn how to make classic drinks and then enjoy them on the spot." - Sam Nelson

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-bar-patios-lincoln-square-north-center-ravenswood
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Emma

Google
We hosted our wedding reception at Koval October 2025, and I cannot say enough good things or recommend it highly enough!! It was better than I ever could have imagined, and it’s in large part due to the people and culture of the team at Koval. Mark, Mitch, and the entire bartending team are absolutely top-tier. I would host every single event here if I had more reasons to throw parties. :) They prepared special menus for our day without us asking, and surprised us with an incredible guestbook souvenir on our wedding day. Overall, the vibe was exactly what we wanted, and the curated aesthetic inside Koval is beautiful by itself, so we didn’t need to add many decorations at all. For the decorations we did have, the Koval staff got there early before our reception started and set everything up. All night, we got endless compliments: “these are the best bartenders”, “this is the coolest venue”, “the best cocktails (and selection to choose from) at a wedding ever”. The weather was perfect so we used the outdoor beer garden and made a huge dance floor inside. Even the bartenders got in on the fun and were dancing behind the bar!! :) Thank you so much to your team – you absolutely were a huge part in making it the best night of our lives!

Cullen McMillan

Google
Atmosphere at Koval is one of the major highlights. It feels like a small intimate setting but warm and big enough for there to be a place to sit/stand even at busy times. Bar tenders are friendly and incredibly efficient. Cocktails were good, but a little overly sweet, especially the bees knees riff they have on the menu. This is a good spot to go for happy hour (special menu, on their website too). Lots of big sunny windows to take in the afternoon rays before a night out!

Stef B

Google
I absolutely love the Koval tasting room. Delicious craft cocktails with a nice patio and selection of games to play. The bartenders are super friendly and helpful. They helped us decide which bottle of liqueur to purchase in the gift shop. Don’t skip out on the frozen lavender lemonade!

Sebastian Perez

Google
Local distillery was a great experience with amazing cocktails, the bartenders (Remy and Megan) were awesome. They were very helpful and were able to make great recommendations. Didn’t have a single cocktail I didn’t like. Between the drinks and the service, I’ll definitely recommend it to friends and will be returning for sure

Josiah Fast

Google
When people come visit from out of town, I always bring them here. Great spirits and cocktails. And a great space to sip them in.

Joan Allen

Google
KOVAL Tasting Room is a stylish and inviting spot to experience some of the best local spirits in Chicago. Their whiskies, gins, and liqueurs are unique and crafted with great attention to detail. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to guide you through tastings or cocktails, making the visit both fun and educational. A great place for anyone interested in quality craft distilling.

Vishal Shah

Google
Visited for the old fashioned magic show, parking was great right in the front, walked in and got greeted by a host who welcomed us and shared information about the event and the tasting room. We had 3 drinks each and it was 4 of us and we all enjoyed them Bartenders are friendly and helpful, the place is nice with lots of seating, comfy couches and tables and more traditional tables and chairs in addition to the bar. They also have pretty decent outdoor seating too We didn’t eat any food so didn’t rate it however the menu did look good and we would have gotten food if we were not going to dinner after

Fergus Nolan

Google
Wonderful distillery that I stumbled on with a friend. The team in there are very passionate about what they do and are super generous with their time. Really lucky to get a tour of the distillery itself and really enjoyed the history and story behind the distillery. If you happen to be in the area, this is definitely worth a visit.
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Joneice B.

Yelp
Nice distillery in the heart of Ravenswood. The KOVAL began as the first distillery to open in Chicago since the mid-1800s. This tasting room is connected to an active distillery. I have been there twice and also purchased their spirits at Mariano's. On the last occasion, I tried the gin based cocktail: Let it linger. Very good. Overall, I have never had a bad experience here. They offer a lovely atmosphere for cocktails and conversations. The patio is enjoyable and couches are comfy. Come check out Koval for Happy Hour. You won't be disappointed. Shout out to them for having frozen drinks on tap. The frozen drinks are strong and delicious. Also cute gift shop to buy sample size spirits and liqueurs.
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Katie N.

Yelp
While walking in the area, we came across Koval. I was like like let's check them out! We did not do a tour on this visit, but I definitely would return for one. Service at the bar was excellent. (Also, I watch way too much bar rescue, but Jon Taffer would love their measurements, smiles, and accuracy of pours). I saw the bar tenders tasting some of their cocktails dispersing. The bees' knees seemed to be one of their popular ones. I prefer vodka, and theirs was very tasty. Some of their cocktails are able to be made without alcohol which is always a win. Street parking out front. Non parallel parking which is always a win!
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Annie C.

Yelp
Came for the distillery tour, and stayed for the drinks and vibes! Tucked away in a little stretch of Ravenswood, it's a beautiful space with neutral colors and lots of natural light. The distillery tour was very enjoyable and happened next door to the bar/lounge section. Our guide seemed very knowledgeable and passionate about the story and products behind Koval. During the tour, we had the opportunity to sample 3-4 different spirits too which was helpful when it came to informing drink orders at the bar afterwards. I also appreciated the mocktail options for those who are spirit free drinkers! They tasted just as good as the alcoholic options. Overall, I had a great time at Koval! Would recommend! And yes, there is ample (and free) parking which is a huge plus!
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Alex C.

Yelp
The cocktail lounge is really nice. A great spot to hang out with friends. God drinks and fun table games. A little pricey but quality beverages.
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Mike W.

Yelp
Main negative comment is that the manhattan was not made properly. Poured out of a mini keg behind the bar at room temp over ice, so it is not at the proper temperature. It should be chilled and mixed before it is served. Old Fashioneds were made properly and had an interesting twist with a hint of vanilla in them. Lounge is comfortable with tons of natural light and lots of comfortable seating including some large leather couches. It wasn't quite warm enough to sit outside but the patio looks great. Lots of tables and string lighting. Cool view of the old Deagan manufacturing building.
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Sedrick M.

Yelp
Came for a pitstop before dinner with friends in town. The drinks were perfect and the vibes were everything we were looking for. The staff was friendly on explaining to you the different bourbons and drinks they had.
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Caitlin R.

Yelp
Atmosphere is great! Love the games and vibes! Drinks were delicious. I got one of the unique hot toddies and was very pleased. Definitely warmed me up on a colder winter night! The bartenders forgot/got confused with the other bartender about making one of our drinks on both times we went up to the bar but maybe it was just a busy night. Definitely plan to return!
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Karen N.

Yelp
Was in the area for an Artisan Market and stopped in. The space is comfortable with light wood tones, couches and lots of natural light from the windows. The bartenders were friendly and friendly. My husband had the Manhattan and was pleased with it. They do offer tours, which I would like to check out in the future. A very relaxing place to have some very well made cocktails,
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Sean K.

Yelp
Snuck in a nice nightcap here after a work outing. Will have to go back for the tour. A great spot to get some nice whiskey cocktails and play games.
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Emily E.

Yelp
Located on a peaceful strip (with ample parking - yes, please!) in the Ravenswood area, I came with a large group for a celebration. Upon walking in, the space is minimalist with warm, neutral tones. We found a large, beautiful brown leather couch beckoning to our group to be seated. There was a coffee table for drinks, as well as a few acrylic stands we moved to comfortably place drinks. It was raining when we came, but they had a nice outdoor patio area with a beautiful vine covered brick wall for allll the photos. As some prior reviews stated, it's a little confusing as to whether you go to the bar, or await a staff member to greet you. There was a party before us, and a bartender quickly came to clean the space of glasses and detritus for us. After waiting a few minutes, I went to the bar to order the Moscow Mule (yummy, super gingery as I hoped) and a Ginger Rickey (much less gingery than the mule which is surprising since it's supposed to be ginger liqueur.) A few in the group ordered the Espresso Martini, which many found to be quite sweet. One person was given their Espresso Martini sans espresso beans, which is no biggie, but brings into question the quality and consistency between drinks/bartenders. All of that said, the bartenders were very accommodating to our large group, and we were pleased with our experience and ended up staying till it was closing time :)
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Natasha B.

Yelp
Perfect place. Great service, great drinks, great vibe, spacious. A few games available to play. They have events like comedy shows and mixology courses. Wonderful spot. Old fashion is fantastic .
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Andrew D.

Yelp
Super cool bar with a nice patio. We really enjoyed the tour. Close to a lot of restaurants.

Mary H.

Yelp
The vibe is clean, swanky, bustling, bright, and modern with a variety of lovely indoor and outdoor seating options. Service is friendly. Menu is slightly limited, with drinks highlighting the house made liquors. We had a Mr. Robinson, Let it Linger, Bees Knees, and gin flight and enjoyed all of it.
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Roseann M.

Yelp
First visit, definitely not the last. J. and I went because there was a vegan market in the courtyard. Yes, we visited the market, but I said, so, we're here at Koval, how about a drink? I didn't even realize Koval had an open bar. I thought it was just production and tours. Nope! The bar space is spacious, well-lit and elegant. It has a high-end, classy style without being stuffy or pretentious. There is also a patio to enjoy in pleasant weather. It was packed when we were there. Koval products are all plant-based after all, so it's a perfect venue for vegans. We sat at the bar. The bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. I ordered the whiskey flight. J. had a cranberry gin spritz. I can honestly say, each of the three whiskeys were delicious and distinctive. The flight is a perfect way to sample Koval's products. J. enjoyed her cocktail very much. The presentation was exceptional. We were laughing a little about it. When her cocktail arrived, I said it was almost too pretty to drink. We should just take pictures of it. Wise woman that she is, J. ignored me and drank it. We only stayed for the one round, because we were going to dinner. I will definitely go back. They do have events there, but who needs a special event to enjoy such delicious drinks? There was an advertisement for game night Monday at 6:00, so maybe that will be our next excuse to enjoy Koval products. You can be sure we won't be waiting for the next vegan event.
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Ellie G.

Yelp
Koval is tucked away into a little stretch of Ravenswood. It is a beautiful space with a lot of light colors and natural light. The drinks were delicious. My mom had one of the frozen cocktails and I had a bee's knees. We enjoyed the distillery tour which we had booked in advance. Our guide was very entertaining and the service at the bar was quick and professional.
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Mike B.

Yelp
Went to the tasting room, to well, try some tastings. The staff had other plans for us as we sat there for about 10 minutes looking at the menu, then assumed we had to go to the bar to get drinks and tried that for another 10 minutes. Not one single person, despite being just two feet from us even acknowledged we were there. So we left and no one said a word or cared. Do yourself a favor and pop on down the road to the victor bar.
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Jacqueline B.

Yelp
I have wanted to tour this place since I found out that whiskey (whisky?) was being made here in Chicago! I decided to come here as part of the Chicago Open House Architecture tour. We walk in (after ID checks) and see the cool machinery, but there was border tape. I guess I thought that the $12 public tours would be free today, but that wasn't the case. We were invited to self guide through the sitting area, with info on the walls about the history of the place, what they use, and the process. I was looking forward to hearing the process and seeing the machines but ok, that's fine, I realize it was crazy busy. We spoke to a docent about the family that started it, and it was cool learning that 'KOVAL' can translate to 'one who forges ahead'. I was impressed in 2020 when they shut down to make hand sanitizer when it became scarce! I would have given 4 stars but we were greeted with a tasting of..GIN! I know making more than 1 thing is a great way to stay in business, but gin is like a roller coaster: only a handful of people can handle it without getting sick! It was mixed with pomegranate or some red stuff, so it was ok but I really wanted whisk(e)y! We didn't do a tasting in the tasting room or buy drinks. The gift store was nicely stocked with shirts, caps, syrups, artwork, and candles. I'll come next time I'm in the area for a whiskey tour and have actual whiskey!
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Diana B.

Yelp
I came here for a birthday drink on a Friday night with a group of friends, and although they don't take reservations, I called in-advance, and they reserved a section for us. They can't do it all the time, but if they know you're coming and it's not an event night, they can try to accommodate. Anyway, overall great tasting room and friendly bar staff. Enjoyed drinking the mule and several friends had the old fashioned. It's off the beaten path. They close at 10pm, so last call around 930p. If you want to avoid children, just come at night, but on a day visit you should expect to see a few families. Overall recommend visiting Koval!
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Robin E.

Yelp
Wow!!! KOVAL Distillery is a special place. The tasting room is so inviting. There are a variety of sitting areas. Everyone can be comfortable- singles, groups, sofas, tables, high tops and the bar. I also liked that there was a coat rack! It was perfect for our winter coats. Let me say that the spirits at KOVAL are smooth, distinctive and soooo delicious!!! I had the vodka soda, it was very refreshing. I shared the liqueur flight. The coffee, rose hip and chrysanthemum & honey liqueurs were so tasty. Not to sweet, flavorful and just right! Stop in KOVAL and enjoy!!!
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Euniishh L.

Yelp
Best Espresso Martini I've had so far! The layout of this place is very unique and cute. Tons of free parking outside and on the street. It was a bit difficult to find a table for our group of 7, but we managed to grab a seat in the middle with the sofas. If you are trying to come here with a large group, note that there are less available seats inside if other people have taken the sofa area, but they do have benches outside to accommodate. The bartenders were all super nice and made great drinks here. Had a whiskey sour slushie, cold brew whiskey, wine with small bites, bees knees, espresso martini and a cheesecake. I would totally recommend the espresso martini and thr bees knees drink from Koval! Those were super delicious. My friends and I actually wanted to come for the whiskey tour, but they only had a few selected times. Will definitely have to come back next time for a whiskey tour!
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Eric W.

Yelp
Koval is the original craft #distillery in Chicago. I Finally got to go to their new space in the #northside and it is wonderful. If you plan ahead you can schedule a distillery tour where you can see their production floor and do some tastings of products like Oat whiskey or cranberry gin. They have a cozy tasting room where you can hangout with your friends at tables and couches for great conversation and drinks. Their bartenders are super friendly and whip up great mocktails for those wanting to go sans alcohol. There is a limited food menu that is mostly small snacks.
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Jennifer B.

Yelp
Staff is knowledgeable, friendly, professional, and kind. The interior design of this spot is beautiful. We sat at the bar and JP took great care of us. We were coming in just to try the spirits, but did peruse the food menu. There weren't many vegan options, but JP modified a snack for us. Super cool! We are gin lovers and left with a three pack from the retail store that is attached. The packaging of their spirits is gorgeous. Don't miss visiting this lovely distillery!
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Becca D.

Yelp
Went here for a distillery tour as part of a large group. I had very little knowledge about Bourbon and Whiskey before I came and felt like I now understand the basics and what makes their product unique. We tasted three different spirits in total. If you do a tour you get a discount on their bottles ( so your ticket pretty much pays for itself if you get at least $100 worth). After the tour we grabbed a drink in the tasting room. I tried their bee's knees which was not too sweet or sour. They have plenty of tables so people could spread out and they have a mix of couches and tables. It's a great place for a date or a small group.
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Alice W.

Yelp
The vibe of the sitting room is: minimalist art parents go out to date night in the neighborhood. This place is large, minimal, with big sitting area, classy bar, and cute patio space. I've never been to the patio but it feels very comfortable in contrast to the art museum vibe of the tasting room. Hate and love to say it but one of the best frozen drinks I've ever had. The tour was good if you want to go on a tour but don't actually like tours.
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Deanna S.

Yelp
There seems to be many different events to attend at Koval including a fun market this past weekend where I was able to pick up some nice Christmas Gifts. Educational tour that's worth attending. Always easy parking which is helpful. Tasting room was nice with modern vibe and plenty of seating and staff. Enjoyed spiced cider and also tried old fashion which was excellent. Nice small bites to chose from including garrets popcorn which is yummy!

Alli B.

Yelp
Pretty good place. The drinks are great as well as the tastings. The space is fun to get a drink. The service is hit or miss. Sometimes it's great, sometimes there is a very unfriendly guy working the bar. Nice outdoor space. Not really a place for kids. Definitely worth checking out.
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Jill L.

Yelp
We went here for Fathers day to try a flight. My husband enjoyed everything that he tried. The establishment was nicely decorated and the staff was very informative. Nice couches to sit on and even some outdoor seating. They even have a little gift shop and an area that educated you on the distillery process and their history. Lots of free street parking in the area!
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Daniel F.

Yelp
I can't say I've been to that many distilleries so I'd count this as one of my first experiences. Koval really impressed me in a number of ways. The aesthetic of the interior was beautiful, they had ample seating both bar and surrounding tables. They even had a large outdoor patio that was well attended for the day I went. The cocktails available were expensive and a lot of things peaked my interest. Ultimately decided to go with a gin flight and even those that are apprehensive about gin I'd definitely recommend trying it. Overall will have to make an excuse to come back up here soon and try more of the available spirits
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Jan O.

Yelp
If you like gin, this place will not disappoint you. Upscale area to kick back and enjoy. We will be back. Excellent service. Try the Koval dry gin chips.
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Karen G.

Yelp
It's such a pain to get to, but it's awesome! delicious, laid back and creative. We were the only ones in the bar and the bar tender was making "trial drinks" and only us try them as he tweaked them. Great experience.
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Sarah P.

Yelp
Service was good! Went when it was emptier but the ambiance is very open and artsy. Had cool furniture and art on the walls. I only had non alc drinks but they were tasty. The prices were a bit pricey but that is to be expected. I wouldn't choose to go there again but it's not bad.
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Brie G.

Yelp
Beautiful space! Outdoor patio is spacious and sunny. Easy parking or CTA/Metra access. Try the espresso martini or see what's in the slushy machine that day. Cheers!
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Serge G.

Yelp
Loved this spot! Great Distillery tour with plenty of history and delicious spirits. Staff are friendly and I highly recommend their Cocktail Bar which has some really good cocktails. Cool vibe inside and reasonable prices.
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Sharita R.

Yelp
Koval was decent. I've had drinks both inside of the tasting room and outside on their blacktop and I will say the space is nice and comfy to hang in. I thought the drinks were perfectly fine. I will say that the next day I woke up with a headache and I hadn't even had much there. This happens with certain brands of liquor so I don't know if it is something that happens due to certain processing or what. But either way that may prevent from visiting regularly (disclaimer: based on my own personal preferences and knowing what brands of liquor that do not cause me to get a headache the day after). Side note: Koval has some of the clearest ice cubes I've ever seen. I was impressed because that's how cocktail ice is supposed to be, but I rarely actually get cubes this clear at a bar!
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Heather P.

Yelp
Lovely addition to the neighborhood! Came in on a random Sunday afternoon and it was relatively packed, being that it was a Sunday afternoon. We sat inside on the comfy leather couches in the back. Atmosphere is very clean and contemporary on the inside. The drink menu is pretty expansive and covers a wide variety of flavor profiles. I was particularly fond of one that had cucumbers in it and was a bit on the spicy side. Can't remember what it was called, but it was so good that I had three of them. And I have to comment about the soap in the bathroom...whatever it is, I wanted to bathe in it. The scent was outrageous! Then I got to talking to JP, the bartender. He was fantastic! Made great drinks, great recommendations, and great conversation. I was plenty good after my three spicy drinks, but he assured me that I had to try his version of an Old Fashioned as that's my go-to. He wasn't lying, it was pretty amazing. They also have an outdoor patio for additional seating, weather dependent, which is always a great option. There were light bites on the menu, but I was going for a liquid lunch on this particular day; however, I did end up chatting with another local patron and staying until close. Incidentally, I should mention they are not a late-night bar. I believe they close at 8 on Sundays and 10 the rest of the week, so plan to go early and maybe you too will spend your entire Sunday Funday there.
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Grant A.

Yelp
Came by on a Sunday to the tasting room after I had stopped at some of the local brewery's. Had sampled the Whiskey over the years at varying events but first time I believe I've had the spirits in a cocktail. Went with an old Fashioned and a drink that had coffee liqueur. Both were tasty and enjoyable. It was a slightly chilly day even though it was spring. Felt comfortable and warm inside.
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Shari B.

Yelp
Stopped by this place with old friends for drinks. They have a huge outdoor patio with extra seating available. Great place to meet up with a group of people. I was also surprised to see they had high-top highchairs. I had a variation of a moscow mule. It tasted good, but I didn't taste much alcohol.

Michelle C.

Yelp
Fun place! Visited here for events, workshops and even a magic show. Warm and friendly staff and bartenders. Tasty cocktails. Good neighborhood business.
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Saro J.

Yelp
Really delicious cocktails. Hard working bartender. Best mule I have ever had. Cool atmosphere.
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Kathy J.

Yelp
I visited with Mr. Yelp and another couple to attend a craft fair. The interior is beautiful and really big! Very open and welcoming, comfortable furniture in groupings and tables and stools at the bar. The drinks were fabulous and it was great to be able to try things without having to buy a whole bottle of something. Will go again.
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Denyce M.

Yelp
This review is more for the product that Koval makes than the tour they offer. A close friend decided to have a "surprise" birthday tour at Kovel to kick off the festivities. I have passed this place many times as I sometimes take Ravenswood as a shortcut to avoid traffic on Foster. Like a lot of places, have always thought about stopping in, but didn't have the time. So glad C decided to do the celebration here. The space itself is cleaning and inviting. It has an old time feel to the place. There is a main entrance where you check in, then there is an open room where actual "tour" is held. Full disclosure, it is not a tour so much as a lecture and a tasting. There are representative pieces of the distilling equipment in the open room as well as chairs for sitting. The lecture itself was very interesting as I had no idea that Koval was the first distillery since the mid-1800s founded in Chicago. While I myself am not a follower of organic products, as a chemist and someone who has worked in the food and drug industry, I can respect the owners (Robert and Sonat Birnecker) decision to make organic spirits from scratch. With my science background, of course I was interested more in the equipment than that product. There was one still there from Germany, I believe, that was awesome in shape and its uniqueness in how it distilled. I had a lot of questions about their quality system, but unfortunately the tour guide could not answer them. No harm, no foul as I imagine most people come to taste the product, not worry about the QA processes :-) Nice thing to know is that their products are kosher for folks were that is a requirement. Feel free to drink my Jewish friends that follow the laws of kosher. The products themselves were most excellent and definitely had a clean finish to them. We had plenty to sample and the pours were nice...I would say about 1/3 of a shot glass for each. Don't remember what we sampled because the Cranberry Gin stole my heart. At the end we were allowed to sample some additional products and liquors...don't know what they were because all I saw was Cranberry Gin. My two additional requests were for that, which I got a full shot of (didn't toss it down, but sipped it real slow like). That stuff is great by itself, but in bubbles, it is the bomb diggity! The staff was very accommodating for our group size (about 30) and even helped us in letting G in so we could say "Surprise!". After the tour, on 9/6/19, The Doctor and I ran into a gentleman name Mitch, who worked in marketing and distribution for Koval. Had no idea that they were sponsoring a cocktail event there with Empirical beer. The Doctor and I had a lovely time with Mitch as he gave us even more information about the company, their plans to expand, the markets they are in. Mitch is definitely got the personality for his role and you could tell he really loves the product that he is selling. Didn't know about the classes until we left, so might try that out for fun. Also I need to go back so I can focus on the other products they have to offer. I was totally bias...once I had the Cranberry I did not have eyes or tongue for anything else. The tour was fun, but go for the gold and the Cranberry. Koval knows what it is doing when it comes to making whiskey and gin. Fun fact, my GF got a bottle of the Cranberry gin and brought it over the next day for drinks on the balcony. Six bottles of champagne, a bottle of Koval = a very fun Funday Sunday. No Koval was left behind....shalom.
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Andrea C.

Yelp
I am not a big whiskey person but this was a really great tour. I loved hearing the story of the family and how the name came about for the product. If you are not a whiskey person, I recommend the classic tour. There were a couple of gin liqueurs included as well as a bourbon. Its a great way to start off a date night for couples. I am kind of a lightweight so I recommend an Uber just to be same. Lots of places to eat nearby. There was a Latin restaurant right next door but there was a private party so we weren't able to try it. Tour guide was funny and informative. You could even see a couple people actually working during the tour. There is a tasting room across the way but the last thing I wanted to do was more drinking. If there had been some food I would have stayed but needed to get something in my belly to offset the liquor. I bought it using a Groupon but the tour is pretty reasonably priced without it. Excellent outing for out of town guests or a group of friends who want something beyond the usual brewery experience.
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Stevan T.

Yelp
The remodeled Koval Distillery and tasting room is awesome! They have a great bar making fun and classic drinks with their craft spirits. The bar is a wonderfully done mid century modern vibe with a great out door area. They do tours but also have amazing fun events. Just this week they have magic show, dramatic book reading with an author, comedy show, and yoga! I will definitely be coming back.
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Darren S.

Yelp
Disturbed by the Man With The Pumpkin shirt. I had wanted to visit this place for the longest time. Arrived as one of the first visitors of the day (only 3 groups in tasting room). Proceeded to get drinks which were awesome. Went on enjoying day as tasting room got busier and returned to order two coffee based cocktails; was told by Mr. Pumpkin that the drinks we were ordering took too much time to make and that our next drink would be "whiskey". We had been nothing but courteous to this honkey. Everyone in our party works in the hospitality industry. The other two bartenders were great. Hiring is tough right now for everyone, we get it. Perhaps informing employees that they are expected to be able to make drinks listed on a very straightforward cocktail menu should come as the first "requirement" on future job postings.

Smitha A.

Yelp
Great place, great ambience, strong drinks. We came for an event. Everyone was super friendly and they have some great bartenders. I really like Koval's offerings, and I have a few of their liquors. The drinks I had at the distillery were delicious and I think I will try to replicate it at home!

Cynthia G.

Yelp
Koval is a hidden treasure! It's beautiful And the drinks and the snacks were Delicious! We enjoyed a presentation By a poet. Everyone had a comfortable Seat to enjoy the show. Afterwards we Bought gifts in the gift shop.
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Ozzie T.

Yelp
This review is for the Gilt City Holiday Cocktail Class that took place on Saturday, 12/22/18. Normally, a class like this would cost $30, but through Gilt, the class was only $15 and you can't pass up a deal like this! This class was so much more! For an hour and half, Phil shared his knowledge of cocktails and kept us entertained. We learned how to make 4 different cocktails: French 5121 (5121 is the address here), Gingerbread Old Fashioned, Koval Royale and 12 Days of Rye. Phil shared a lot with this class, but here are some fun facts: - Gin is basically flavored vodka (so don't be scurred) - When making simple syrup at home, put a bit of vodka in the simple syrup and it will keep longer. - You can use rose hips liqueur in place of vermouth. At the end of the class, we purchased the Cranberry Gin (you must get it, it is so good and not what you would expect) and Bourbon at a 15% discount. I highly recommend this class at Koval. And almost forgot, Koval products are organic, non-GMO and kosher.
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tammy s.

Yelp
Love the atmosphere and the drinks were perfect after a long drive to Chicago. Very friendly staff. Made us feel like regulars. We didn't have time for a tour but would definitely go back next time we're in Chicago.
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Timothy N.

Yelp
This place isn't really a distillery. More of a showroom which is fine but didn't really the sense of distilling process you would get on a beer tour. I would say they host an educational tasting instead. Because there wasn't much to show visually, the tasting lost my interest at some point. The tasting gave drinks other than whiskey and I'm glad for that. That surprised me but also got me excited to try their unique gin, brandy, and liquor. They say they are unique for some of their line of whiskey that uses different grains that are not 100% of the whiskey in the industry. I can't say I particularly appreciate the different grain as much as I hoped I would. I remembered trying a one day age barrel whiskey which is basically vodka with a subtle flavor. I also really like their one of their blend with notes of Creme Brulee. Overall tasting all of the whiskey side by side really help distinguish the differences in what whiskey can be. Also from the first to the last drink, you can tell all of their whiskey is on par with top-shelf liquor. What really struck me is that I like their non-whiskey products even more. The peach brandy is one of the best brandy I drank(although I don't drink much Brandy). Their gin hit me with strong lavender notes and some other floral note in the background. They also had an aged gin, more appealing for people who can't handle gin. It is much less offensive yet less floral as well. They end the tasting with their liquors. Man, these liquors are some of the best. I think they are just dangerous for how easy it was to drink. Coffee is like cold brew with some sugar. Ginger is like a sweet ginger dessert or as my friend said "ginger tea with honey". I enjoyed their tasting showcase and got a fun souvenir. A mini keychain flask with Koval label on it. I recommend anyone who enjoys whiskey to go to their tasting.