The Southsider Cocktail Recipe

by Javier Villaneuva

A tribute to the South Side of Chicago! I’m a proud product of the Little Village and North Lawndale communities, and I’d like to share my thoughts on one of the most undervalued gems in the city.

Chicagoans have a certain grit, and determination that differs from anywhere in the world, and the south side showcases this 24/7. We work two jobs, grind, hustle, raise our families and go to school.

Southsiders are entrepreneurs, independent and authentic. In honor of working class heroes everywhere, wildflower squad has created a unique scotch cocktail!

1.5 oz Mossburn blended malt
.5 oz Mathilde Peach Liqueur
.25 oz Demerara
.25 oz Mancini dry vermouth
1 blackberry muddled
Smoked rosemary

Add all ingredients, except rosemary, to your mixing glass, or copper yari and stir for 15-20 seconds.

Torch rosemary and cover with glass. Fine strain over clear ice sphere and garnish with rosemary.

Javier Villaneuva

I started off working for non-profits, then teaching at charter schools in marginalized communities throughout Chicago, Oakland, CA and Portland, Oregon. My passion for learning, teaching and history is undeniable, but I was struggling financially, so I began moonlighting as a bartender just to make ends meet, and unexpectedly fell madly in love with every aspect of the bar business. For my squad and I, it is about so much more than making a great cocktail. It’s about memories, music, history and sharing those moments, ensuring you embrace the present, reflect on the past and securing a bright future. Javier is the President/Historian for The Wildflower Squad which is Bartending Service for Private Events as well as offering consulting for Bar owners.