Alright, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to embark on a quest more perilous than finding a decent parking spot in Wrigleyville during a Cubs game: locating Malört in Chicago. Yes, that Malört. The one that tastes like a rusty bicycle chain dipped in grapefruit juice and regret. The elixir that makes even the most seasoned Chicagoan question their life choices.
The Great Malört Hunt: A Chicagoan's Odyssey (or, Why You Might Need a Therapist After This)
Let's be real, you're not here because you enjoy Malört. You're here because you want to inflict it upon unsuspecting friends, prove your Chicago street cred, or, let's be honest, because you lost a bet. Whatever the reason, you've come to the right (or possibly wrong) place.
First Stop: The Usual Suspects (and Why They Might Betray You)
- Your Friendly Neighborhood Liquor Store:
- "Oh, you want Malört?" the cashier will say, their eyes filled with a mix of pity and morbid curiosity. "Sure, we got that... somewhere." This usually involves them disappearing into the back for an indeterminate amount of time, only to emerge dusty and defeated.
- Sub-headline: The "We Might Have It, But We're Not Sure We Want To" Scenario.
- Don't be surprised if they look at you like you've asked for a bottle of unicorn tears. Some smaller liquor stores may not stock it, or they might hide it in the back, fearing it will contaminate the other, more palatable spirits.
- Pro-tip: Call ahead. And if they say they have it, confirm they actually see it. Don't trust the words of a person who has seen too much.
- Big Box Retailers (Where Malört Lurks in the Shadows):
- Places like Binny's Beverage Depot are your best bet. They usually have a dedicated section for "Things You Dare Your Friends To Drink," which is where you'll find Malört.
- Sub-headline: The "Wall of Shame" Approach.
- Navigating the aisles can be an adventure in itself. Just follow the trail of bewildered tourists and the faint scent of despair.
- Important: You can also check their online inventory before you make the trek. This can save you from a wasted trip.
The Secret Society of Malört Seekers (and Where They Hide Their Stash)
- Chicago's Dive Bars (Where Malört Flows Like Water... Sort Of):
- Many classic Chicago dive bars proudly display Malört bottles like trophies. Some even have special Malört-themed cocktails, if you're feeling particularly brave (or foolish).
- Sub-headline: The "Liquid Courage" Approach.
- If you're really desperate, you can always ask a bartender where they get their supply. They might just take pity on you and reveal their secret source.
- Be prepared to be offered a shot. It's the Chicago way.
- Online Retailers (The Modern-Day Malört Smuggler):
- In this digital age, you can find just about anything online, including Malört. Just be prepared to pay a premium for shipping, especially if you're ordering from out of state.
- Sub-headline: The "I'm Too Lazy to Leave My Couch" Method.
- <u>Always</u> check the legality of shipping alcohol to your state before placing an order. You don't want to end up with a Malört-shaped hole in your life and a hefty fine.
- Word of Mouth (The Legend of the Hidden Malört Hoarder):
- Some Chicagoans hoard Malört like a squirrel hoards nuts. They have secret stashes hidden in their basements, garages, and even their sock drawers.
- Sub-headline: The "Who You Know" Method.
- If you're lucky enough to know one of these Malört hoarders, they might be willing to part with a bottle... for a price. Or a really good story.
FAQ: How To... (Because We Know You Have Questions)
- How to prepare yourself for the taste of Malört?
- Mentally prepare for a flavor that's both bitter and medicinal. Imagine licking a grapefruit rind while someone shouts insults at you.
- How to avoid getting tricked into drinking Malört?
- Be wary of anyone offering you a "special Chicago shot." Ask for a detailed description of the ingredients before you take a sip.
- How to convince your friends to try Malört?
- Tell them it's a "Chicago tradition." Or, just tell them it will make them grow hair on their chest. (Even if they are a woman.)
- How to get rid of the aftertaste of Malört?
- Drink copious amounts of something else. Preferably something that doesn't taste like despair. A lot of people find a very cold beer is the best chaser.
- How to know if you've had too much Malört?
- If you start agreeing with the taste, it's time to stop. Or if you start to feel like you are having a pleasant conversation with a street lamp.