Experiences & Events
The Fernet Tasting Menu — Four Courses & a Shot
The first of ten events celebrating 10 Years of The Side Lot.
For over a century, Fernet has been the bartender’s handshake — a bold, bitter, herbal elixir passed quietly from behind the bar to those in the know. Born in Milan in 1845, Fernet-Branca became a symbol of camaraderie and grit in the service industry, embraced by mixologists worldwide as both a ritual and a rite of passage. Whether sipped neat after a long shift or mixed into inventive cocktails, Fernet has always been more than a drink — it’s a badge of honor.
Now, The Side Lot is bringing that tradition out from behind the bar and onto the table.
Curated by our own Phil Castello, Wauconda’s unapologetic local Fernet pusher — this exclusive dinner pairs the unmistakable intensity of Fernet-Branca and Fernet Menta with four bold, seasonal dishes designed to match their complexity.
📅 Date: Friday, September 5th @ 7pm.
💰 $55 per person | Only 10 seats available
📍 Weather permitting, this dinner will be served in our Backyard.
Please note: We are unable to accommodate substitutions or dietary restrictions for this menu. Reservations are non-refundable but may be transferred to another guest. A credit card is needed to book the reservation, but will not be charged until the day of the event, unless your party is a no-show.
Celebrate a decade of The Side Lot with the spirit that’s been quietly fueling the bar world for generations. This is dinner with a backbone — bitter, bold, and unforgettable.
The Side Lot Experiences
Step into the exhilarating and unpredictable world of "Phun" Phil Castello, The Side Lot's Sommelier & Master Mixologist, with The Side Lot Experiences. Prepare for a culinary adventure where creativity knows no bounds! Choose your path to delicious discovery:
* 🍽️ The FULL Side Lot: Start off with a welcome cocktail, then immerse yourself in a four-course culinary symphony, each course artfully paired with a handcrafted cocktail.
* 🥃 Reserve Scotch or Tequila Experience: Discover the depth and diversity of scotch or tequila through a guided tasting of select reserves, complemented by delectable small bites.
* 🍾 Sparkling Experience: Elevate your palate with a celebration of effervescence. Savor a curated selection of Champagne and sparkling wines, accompanied by exquisite small bites.
* 🍳 The Art of Brunch Experience: Forget the standard buffet. Our culinary team meticulously designs a multi-course brunch menu, where each dish is intentionally paired with a beverage. Think beyond mimosas!
Choose whichever tasting fits your fancy, and we’ll handle the rest.
Prepare for an all-bets-off evening that will leave you stunned (and stuffed! 😋)
Each Side Lot Experience is priced per person and promises a fully guided tasting. Every course and drink is expertly prepared and presented, ensuring a memorable and engaging culinary escapade.
