Ghost Donkey - Global Mezcal & Tequila Concept - Opens in River North

Hospitality design firm, AvroKO, and hospitality brand, Flagship Restaurant Group, have debuted tequila and mezcal bar, Ghost Donkey, at 415 N Dearborn Street in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. This new concept follows Ghost Donkey’s US expansion in markets like Phoenix, Denver, Las Vegas, and Omaha, as well as its global presence in Auckland, New Zealand, and Melbourne, Australia.

At its core, Ghost Donkey is a mezcal and tequila bar. Upon entry, a life-sized donkey adorned in parade floral stands between the traditional Ghost Donkey bar and new addition, the Hacienda Room. Latin-inspired music fills the space, and guests will be provided a nightly light show featuring red twinkle lights.

In addition to its mezcal and tequila list, the menu features specialty agave-driven cocktails, each served in an assortment of ceramic donkey vessels, garnished with floral, including: 

• Mushroom Margarita: Huitlacoche-infused Montelobos, Mezcal Espadín, sweet corn syrup, agave, and lime
• Mezcal Carajillo: Ilegal Mezcal Reposado, Licor 43, cold brew, and Galliano Espresso
• Burro Tropical: Terralta Blanco tequila, Uruapan Charanda blended rum, Chinola passion fruit, Calpico, and lemon
• Highland Picnic: Koch Elemental Mezcal, Terralta Reposado tequila, yuzu, lime, agave, and egg white
• Vodka Miami: Weber Ranch vodka, guava nectar, Ancho Reyes Verde, lime, and soda
• Moda Antiqua: Abasolo whisky, tamarind, mole bitters, and orange
• Stealth Margarita (Frozen): Cazadores Blanco tequila, St. Germain, cucumber, lime, and Tajín
• Al Pastor (Zero-Proof): Pineapple, achiote, lime, taco seasoning, and cilantro 
• Lavender Sour (Zero-Proof): Lavender, yuzu, honey, and vanilla

Key details, timing, and local impact

Culinary offerings include nachos, tacos and quesadillas ranging from the Chicken Tinga to Carne Asada and vegetarian Mushroom & Roasted Corn. Ghost Donkey also serves shareable bites, or Antojitos, like Shrimp Ceviche and Esquites. 

The Hacienda Room is an exclusive space that serves as a backdrop for private events, bespoke pop-ups, mezcal tastings, and brand activations