Apero

Apero is a natural wine bar on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago, a cozy spot for small group gatherings, birthday drinks and wine nights with friends or coworkers. It is named for the French apéro, the hour before dinner spent unwinding over wine or a cocktail and a few snacks.

The room has leather banquettes along white brick walls and small round tables, which suits a relaxed group that wants to sit, share bottles and talk. It is a small room with only a few tables and barstools, and a back patio adds room when the inside fills up.

The wine list changes weekly and focuses on small producers who farm organically and work with minimal intervention, with whites, sparkling, rosé, orange wine and rotating reds, plus vermouth, cocktails, Belgian and German beers, cider and non-alcoholic wine and tonics. Food is built for sharing: chef's choice charcuterie and cheese boards, housemade focaccia with dips, a party plate, chicken skewers, salads and desserts, with snacks served until close.

Apero is run by owners Jason and Grace Van Den Eeden and Robert Cervantes, and the staff talk guests through the wines. It is closed on Mondays, opens at 5 PM Tuesday to Friday and at 3 PM on Saturday and Sunday.