In line with the woodsy and fantastical theme of this craft cocktail bar nestled in the heart of Wrigley, The Wicked Wolf invites people to celebrate the upcoming National Parks Week with a days-long celebration featuring signature cocktails and events happening through Apr. 18.
“An Ode to America’s National Parks” is the passion project of The Wicked Wolf’s beverage director, Isaak Lusic who teamed up with spirits brands, Yellowstone Bourbon and Wyoming Whiskey to bring his vision to life.
The drinks for the 4-day event were hand-crafted by Lusic who wanted to create flavors reminiscent of America’s National Parks.
One such cocktail is a take on an old fashioned called, “Old Faithful”, after Yellowstone National Park’s most famous geyser.
The cocktail features pinecone-infused Yellowstone Bourbon, rich turbinado syrup, bitters and is topped with an edible mini pinecone before it is smoked with pine needles.
The cocktail menu also highlights 400 Conejos Mezcal, Bowling & Burch Gin, and Maestro Dobel Tequila.
“An Ode to America’s National Parks” comes just weeks after The Wicked Wolf won big at the Absolute Best of Long Beach Awards, taking first place in 3 categories; best happy hour, best cocktail program, and the coveted best bar category.
“I am overwhelmed and the feeling goes beyond gratitude,” said owner, Thea Mercouffer, reflecting on the bar’s big wins. “We’re being judged by a high standard and we work hard to meet those expectations.”
Aside from world-class cocktails and a knowledgeable and attentive staff, the ethos of The Wicked Wolf is heavily rooted in community building and education.
During their Nation Park’s Week kickoff event, partnering spirit brands will be donating a dollar per cocktail sold to the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), which The Wicked Wolf will match, dollar for dollar.
More than just celebrating America’s national parks for their beauty, the kickoff event serves to provide visibility for the NPCA and promote awareness about how to conserve the parks.
The 4-day event will also feature a scavenger hunt and a campfire sing along, during which a guitarist will play acoustic favorites while guests sing along.
“It’s kind of like karaoke with a live band,” Mercouffer said.
Wrigley BBQ will be providing campfire favorites such as burgers and dogs during the festivities.
Whether you’re a lover of America’s National Parks or simply a fan of imaginative, themed cocktails, The Wicked Wolf invites you to join in on the festivities, during which, you can make a difference while you sip.