The Weekender: Coffee Beer, Bacon Ice Cream and Mint Juleps

The weekend is the mint in your julep.

Intelligentsia Beer at Goose Island

Two beverage powerhouses have combined their respective geniuses, and you have no choice but to pay attention—well, it helps that caffeine-pusher Intelligentsia is involved. Introducing Bourbon County Brand Coffee Stout, an espresso-infused twist on Goose Island's whiskey-barrel-aged brew. Alas, not available for breakfast.

Now available, Goose Island, 1800 N Clybourn Ave, 312-915-0071

THE WORLD’S GREATEST WHISKY HOUSE

Johnnie Walker's House of Walker

The House of Walker is an exclusive experience where guests are led through a sampling of the best Johnnie Walker Scotch whiskies. It's coming to Chicago before too long, but if you want to know more, you'll have to join the club. Space is limited, so RSVP now.

Bacon Ice Cream at Chalkboard

The $50 five-course deal, which includes wine pairings, at this snug North Center boîte is undoubtedly a good one. But after your tuna-sashimi spring rolls and roasted halibut with citrus marmalade comes the real excitement: housemade bacon ice cream. Pork desserts always make you squeal.

Available through May 9, Chalkboard, 4343 N Lincoln Ave, 773-477-7144


Art Chicago After-Party

After rubbing elbows with artists and collectors at the Merchandise Mart during Art Chicago, you may find you have some excess creative energy to burn off. A warehouse party, a few cocktails, gratis appetizers, a rock band and a legion of art students in tight leggings should help.

Apr 30, 7-10pm, $5, Creative Lounge Chicago, 1564 N Damen Ave, 3rd Floor

Derby Party at the Pony

If you're sipping a mint julep amid beautiful women wearing awe-inspiring haberdashery, it can only mean one thing: it's Saturday. Add a buffet of Southern favorites, a raffle for a day of horse riding in Lake Forest and galloping ponies on TV, and then you have a party.

May 1, 3:30-5:30pm, The Pony, 1638 W Belmont Ave, 773-828-5055

Peep Show at Enclave

Aubrey O'Day possesses many remarkable talents. Right now, however, it's only her ace Playboy modeling skills that are leaping to mind. So see what she's truly capable of when (almost) fully clothed as she leads this tantalizing burlesque revue. You've always loved the performing arts.

May 1, 9pm, free admission before 11pm, Enclave, 220 W Chicago Ave, 312-654-0234