A week in, Mezcaleria Las Flores (3149 W. Logan Blvd., Logan Square, 773-278-2215) has already brought a verdant bustle to the space adjoining Johnny's Grill. On a recent visit, the crowd was wall-to-turquoise-wall, and the bartenders—owner Jay Schroeder was one—moved at a dizzying space. The space has seen minimal renovations, but Schroeder has managed to outfit the close quarters with a lively DJ booth and colorful weavings to create a hip and homey Oaxacan vibe.

Agave-based cocktails flagged as "spirit forward," "smoky," or "adventurous" arrive in traditional vessels Schroeder sourced during a recent trip to Mezcal's hometown. It's a lot of the young and the stylish sipping from what look like ceramic soupbowls, but if you're searching for the Mezcal corner of the spirit world, there's nowhere better to be. And if hunger calls, you can order a bite from Johnny's, just through the door. 

Here's what else we saw when we stopped by.