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🌟 Vendor Spotlight: Bitter Ex Bitters & Syrups
This is Bitter Ex Bitters & Syrups’ very first season at the Lincoln Square Farmers Market, but their story has been steeping for years.
The founder Ryan, who called Lincoln Square home for nearly two decades, started experimenting with bitters long before turning it into a business in 2016. The name? A nod to co-founder Stephanie—his “bitter” ex—who shared the same passion for crafting bitters.
After their relationship ended, the business was born, proving that great flavor can come from unexpected places.
Last fall, they expanded into all-natural syrups—crafted from water, organic cane sugar, and pounds of fresh ingredients like mint leaves, ginger, rosemary, and cardamom. Each syrup is layered with complementary flavors, creating bold, well-rounded profiles perfect for cocktails, mocktails, or even a refreshing flavored lemonade.
At the market, you’ll often spot them serving up delicious non-alcoholic creations, complete with recipe cards so you can mix up your own at home—with or without booze.
For this vendor, the Lincoln Square Farmers Market is more than a place to sell—it’s a homecoming. “Seeing familiar faces from the neighborhood or patrons from The Long Room always makes my day,” they said.
When they’re not behind the booth, you might catch them picking up fresh greens for salads or savoring Au Levain’s flaky, buttery pastries.
Must-Try: Grab a mocktail at the market, then take home a bottle of syrup to keep the summer flavors going in your own kitchen.
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