May 2026

Slow Drinking Guide

A monthly beverage and culture forward letter written to celebrate Latin American heritage in Chicago.

Eight Years of Slow Drinking

Hello, summertime Chi. I love it here! I hope you are basking in the sun and enjoying the lake this weekend!

This month marks exactly eight years since Vida Mia Cocktails became an official LLC. What began as a creative outlet to teach the art of "slow drinking" and agave pairings has become a community of curious beverage enthusiasts and corporate partners who value culture as much as the craft.

To commemorate this milestone, I am narrowing my expertise. I’m thrilled to share that I am currently becoming a Mezcalogist through the Universidad de Mezcal program (a partnership between Aventureros del Mezcal and the Universidad de Michoacán). I am currently in an intensive 143-hour program that is taught entirely in Spanish covering the history, biology, production, and business of mezcal. My final module takes place in Oaxaca this summer for graduation. I can’t wait to bring that knowledge back to Chicago.

New Home, New Experience: Airbnb x Vida Mia

Inspired by my studies, I am officially launching a Mezcal Tasting Experience on Airbnb! After a four-month approval process, we are live.

• The Venue: I’ve found a new home for these sessions at Estrella Negra restaurant, a great backdrop for heritage-forward storytelling.
• The Visuals: A huge thank you to the talented Jay Davalos for the photography session and to my wonderful models who helped capture the magic last month.
• The Partners: My intention is to build this experience with sustainable partners. I’ve already locked in artisanal chocolate from Dark Matter’s Sleep Walk Chocolateria to pair with our spirits.

Interested in booking a private session or learning more about the Mezcalogist program? Reply to this email!

Where to slow drink in Chicago.....

🥂 DINING: Visiting the Obama Presidential Center (OPC) this summer? Stop by BAMJoy, the restaurant located at the OPC and led by Chicago's acclaimed Chef Cliff Rome. Experience the connection between food and community impact, as every menu item is crafted with the fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Plan your visit because the restaurant closes at 3pm.

🎟️ COWORKING POP-UP: You are invited to a causal coworking day for local business owners, creatives, and solopreneurs. Growing a business doesn't have to feel isolating. This second pop-up event is scheduled on Tuesday, June 2nd at the Aster Hall Food Hall & Bar Lounge. It is a gently structured coworking day for creatives who want to get things done and socialize. Hosted by Vida Mia every 2 months, each one will feature a new neighborhood, a cultural exhibit, and a local cafe or food hall. Learn more and RSVP here.

☕ LOCAL CAFES: When you are in the Woodlawn or South Shore area, stop by Build Coffee & Books cafe, a relaxed neighborhood spot for sandwiches, pastries, coffee and tea, showcasing local books and zines. Co-owned by a Chicago rockstar and author, Eve L. Ewing, the independent bookstore is worth the visit.

🥳CELEBRATING 8 YEARS: Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’ve been here since 2018 or joined us recently, your support allows me to continue telling the stories of the maguey.

With love and light,

Argelia