Smile Politely

G and T at Ladro Enoteca is the drink of summer

Alyssa Buckley

On the menu as G and T, Ladro Enoteca’s gin and tonic ($12) is a cold, smooth sip on a hot summer day. Gin and tonic is the favorite cocktail of owner Thad Morrow, and it’s one of only four cocktails at the Downtown Champaign bottle shop known for their selection of natural wines.

Made with rotating bottles of gin and tonic each month, Ladro Enoteca’s G and T is always a little different but reliably refreshing.

Inside Ladro Enoteca in Downtown Champaign, there are two bottles on the dark wooden counter. The left bottle is a small, clear. bottle of tonic, and the right bottle is a larger dark blue bottle of Scapegrace gin. Photo by Alyssa Buckley.Photo by Alyssa Buckley.

Since the wine bar switches up both the gin and the tonic, you have to stop in often to try the different combinations. Each time, I have loved each gin’s botanicals and each tonic’s bubbly balance. Every iteration of this cold cocktail has been easy to sip and just perfect for summer.

While you’re at Ladro Enoteca, check out the bottle shop’s wine selection (available by the glass or bottle), small plates, and conserva, artisan tinned seafood.

On a dark wooden bar at Ladro Enoteca, there are two gin and tonics in a clear half tumbler with a slice of orange and a clear stir stick. Photo by Alyssa Buckley.Photo by Alyssa Buckley.

The G and T is best enjoyed outside at one of the bistro tables in front of the shop, but if you want to escape the heat, there are a few tables inside, too.

Ladro Enoteca
1 E Main Suite
Champaign
2 p.m. to 10 p.m., daily

Top image by Julie McClure.

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