Scofflaw opened in Logan Square in March 2012 and within a year Chicago Magazine had named it the best bar in the city. GQ called it the best gin joint in the world in 2014. Both of those designations still come up whenever anyone argues about the place.

The gin list is the main event, built around a house Old Tom gin produced in collaboration with North Shore Distillery that is floral and smooth in a way that tends to convert people who didn't think they liked gin. The vibe is Victorian salon without the pretension, and the kitchen produces food that goes well beyond typical bar snacks. At midnight they bring out fresh-baked cookies. This is not a joke.