July 12, 2026
Doors: 1:45 PM - Show: 2:00 PM
21+
Friends of Friends
Classic Cocktail Sessions
Friends of Friends - Chicago
2001 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL, 60612
Date & Time
Sunday, July 12, 2026
2:00 PM
Location
Friends of Friends - Chicago
2001 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL, 60612
The Classic Cocktail Sessions at Friends of Friends
Join us for an afternoon of cocktails, conversation, and education as Toby Maloney and Emma Janzen celebrate the release of their new book, The Classic Cocktail Sessions.
Released on June 16, 2026, The Classic Cocktail Sessions is a joyful and authoritative guide to 61 of the world's most beloved cocktails. Written by celebrated bartender Toby Maloney and acclaimed drinks writer and photographer Emma Janzen, the book builds on their award-winning The Bartender's Manifesto, exploring the techniques, decisions, and subtle variations that transform familiar classics into exceptional drinks.
As part of their national book tour, Toby and Emma are bringing The Classic Cocktail Sessions to Friends of Friends for a special ticketed class.
Throughout the evening, they'll lead guests through four immersive "Sessions," each centered around a timeless classic:
Daiquiri
Cosmopolitan
Manhattan
Negroni
Each Session features two thoughtfully different versions of the same cocktail, illustrating how small changes in ingredients, ratios, or technique can dramatically shape the final drink. Along the way, Toby and Emma will share the "why" behind every choice, giving guests practical tools they can bring home to improve their own cocktail making.
Every ticket includes:
A signed copy of The Classic Cocktail Sessions
A guided tasting of eight cocktails (two interpretations of each classic)
A companion workbook for notes and recipes
A live Q&A with Toby Maloney and Emma Janzen
Whether you're a hospitality professional, an enthusiastic home bartender, or simply someone who loves a great cocktail, this class offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from two of the industry's most respected voices in an intimate setting.