Here's something to toast to: The Chicago Tribune reports that watermelon contains an ingredient called citrulline that can trigger production of a compound that helps relax the body's blood vessels, similar to what happens when a man takes Viagra.
So drink up this weekend with these watermelon-infused cocktails (you may need two or three!) at several local hot spots:
Adobo Grill: You'll want to drink several of these WateRita de Sandia, made with Tequila Dos Lunas Reposado, watermelon juice, Cointreau and mint.
The Chopping Block: This special Girls' Night event is for women to learn how to make Watermelon Mint Mojitos for their men. Sign up now for classes taking place at the Lincoln Square location (4747 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-472-6700) on August 7 and August 23 at 7pm or at the Merchandise Mart location (312-644-6360) on August 2 and August 28 at 6pm. $40 for classes that include snacks.
DeLaCosta: The Watermelon Muddle at this sexy Latin supperclub is an offshoot of a mojito with vodka, fresh watermelon, lime juice, soda water and crushed ice.
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club: Sit on the garden-like outdoor patio right off bustling Halsted Street and sip the Watermelon Martini, made simply with vodka and watermelon liqueur.
one sixtyblue: Guests can settle in at the bar for BARBQ for special summer dishes and end the night with fresh, cooling desserts like iced watermelon with a selection of spiked sorbets.
Plan B Bar + Kitchen: The hip Wicker Park bar and eatery offers two watermelon-flavored drinks. Do a Melon Drop shot (with Watermelon vodka, fresh lemon juice and a touch of sugar) or sip on the Watermelon Martini (a Jolly Rancher-style drink with Watermelon Pucker, Ketel One Citroen vodka and garnished with a watermelon slice steeped overnight in Van Gogh melon vodka).
Sushi Samba rio: Get down with some Samba Juice, which explodes in a burst of raspberry-infused rum, watermelon-flavored rum, acai, passionfruit, crème de banana and guava.