Those of legal drinking age have been able to get cocktails to go in Illinois for several years now, under a pandemic-era law.
Now, that option won’t be going away.
A measure making cocktails to-go permanent is among a slate of laws set to take effect on July 1. Senate Bill 618, passed by the legislature and signed by Gov. JB Pritzker, codified the state’s cocktails-to-go policy.
Under the law, bars and restaurants can continue to sell mixed drinks and cocktails for carryout, curbside pickup and delivery.
Establishments with the proper license are permitted to sell cocktails to-go and for delivery, but the beverages must be properly sealed, and are sometimes offered in conjunction with food orders – depending on the license and local rules.
The cocktails-to-go policy was set to expire in 2024, but lawmakers previously extended it to 2028 before making it permanent.
The following requirements are in place for cocktails, mixed drinks and single servings of wine available to-go, according to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission.
May not be sold or delivered by an employee unless they are 21 years old
Cannot be sold or delivered without age verification
Must be packaged in a sealed, tamper-evident container
Cannot be transported in the passenger area of a vehicle
Must be delivered by the establishment’s own employee and not a third-party delivery service
In addition, the container must be labeled with information including the cocktail or mixed drink name and ingredients, the name(s) of the alcohol in the drink and a date showing it was filled less than seven days before the sale.
Cocktails to go can be sold at licensed bars, restaurants and other businesses with proper licenses.
Dining and Cooking