Present Tense Mobile Bar

We understand that planning can feel overwhelming, and our team is here to make this part of the process as easy and thoughtful as possible. Present Tense provides professional bar service tailored to your gathering, from non-alcoholic selections, beer, and wine to simple cocktails and full-service craft cocktail bar offerings. We also offer simple catering, with comforting, easy-to-serve food options such as gourmet sandwiches, charcuterie, and elevated snacks. We will work quietly and attentively with your family, venue, and other vendors so everything feels seamless and you can focus on being present with your guests.

Present Tense began in 2020, delivering ready-to-drink cocktails and bar snacks during the pandemic. Today, we bring full-service bar catering and elevated snacks to venues, homes, offices, festivals, and amenity spaces throughout Chicago. Founder Derek Mercer, a hospitality veteran of acclaimed Chicago restaurants, combines exceptional service with style, hospitality, and an eye for detail.

Families choose Present Tense because we provide warm, professional service with close attention to every detail. We customize our beverage and catering offerings to fit the size, setting, and tone of each event, whether you are gathering at home, in a traditional venue, or somewhere meaningful to your family. We are the right fit for groups looking for thoughtful hospitality, high-quality food and drinks, and a dependable team that can manage everything with care and discretion.