Crystal Clear Cocktails: Quari Ice’s Rise, Trending Summer Drinks & Chicago’s Master Mixologist Tips

Supper with Sylvia Perez - Chicago's Foodie Podcast

Ready to take your cocktails to the next level? In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, discover how crystal clear ice cubes and spheres are transforming everything from spicy margaritas to refreshing gin and tonics. We sit down with the visionary founder of Quari Ice, the Chicago-based company setting a new standard for gourmet cocktail ice.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Clear Ice Phenomenon: Why top restaurants and elite bartenders swear by crystal clear ice for better taste, slower melting, and unforgettable presentation.
• The Spark of Innovation: How a hot summer day on Lake Michigan inspired the idea behind Quari Ice—and turned it into a booming business that’s freezing out old-school backhouse ice makers.
• Mixology Trends for Summer: Chicago’s own Master of the Mix, Richard Beltzer, shares his hottest cocktail recipes, including his signature whiskey highball, perfect summer gin and tonic, and modern takes on classic margaritas.
• Pro Bartender Tips: The best ways to use gourmet ice in your favorite drinks, elevate your home bar, and impress your guests all summer long.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’re passionate about craft cocktails, curious about the science of perfect ice, or simply looking for inspiration to mix up something fresh, this conversation is for you. From Lake Michigan inspiration to nationwide acclaim, learn how Quari Ice is redefining what’s in your glass.

Listen Now to Discover:
✅ How clear ice makes cocktails taste cleaner and look stunning
✅ Trending cocktail recipes for summer entertaining
✅ The art and science behind gourmet ice production
✅ Insider secrets from Chicago’s top mixologist

🔥 Don’t Miss Out:
Subscribe to Supper with Sylvia for more stories on culinary innovation, cocktail culture, and the entrepreneurs shaking up the food and beverage world.

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💬 Let’s Connect:
Love this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share your favorite summer cocktail with us!

Quari Ice can be found at Mariano Market, Binny's, Jewel Osco, Heinens, Grand Food Center, and Sunset Foods.

https://www.quari-ice.com/

https://www.instagram.com/quari_ice/?hl=en

Minnesota Ice

https://minnesota-ice.com/

This episode is produced by Jane Stephens

Original music and audio engineering by Donnie Cutting

Social Media and Promotions by Magali Blasdell

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at [email protected]

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Social Media Marketing: Magali Blasdell

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Marketing and Media Relations: Julie Lokun

Producer: Jennifer Waters