The Drinks page supplies bar aficionados, cocktail lovers, oenophiles, and beer hounds with news about drinking establishments. You'll also get reviews and profiles of bartenders, mixologists, brewers, sommeliers and vintners. Every Thursday evening, the L.A. Beer Blast lets Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections.
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Drink Articles
Q&A with Tuthilltown Spirits distiller Gable Erenzo
March 12, 2010 at 5:23 pm
For the past decade, Tuthilltown Spirits has tapped into a rich pre-Prohibition tradition of New York distillation. In 2001, Ralph Erenzo and Vicki Morgan purchased a 220-year-old gristmill and teamed with technical mastermind Brian Lee to convert the building into a micro-distillery. They started with vodka, and have gone on to produce New York Corn Whiskey, Baby Bourbon Whiskey, Manhattan Rye Whiskey and Four Grain …
Q&A with bartender Brian Miller (Death & Co.)
March 12, 2010 at 4:09 pm
In the Manhattan cocktail realm, which is known to be one of the nation’s most competitive markets, Death & Co. is still renowned for its staff and commitment to craft. Pegu Club veteran Brian Miller has bartended for Death & Co. owners David Kaplan and Ravi DeRossi since the bar’s early days. We recently met in Los Angeles, at a landmark meeting of the Radio …
L.A. Beer Blast B10: Brew & You, Beer vs. Wine, Eagle Rock Brewery Beer Class, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, Naja’s Place, 38 Degrees, The Surly Goat, Verdugo Bar
March 11, 2010 at 5:55 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
Beer Dinner or Dinner with Beer?
March 11, 2010 at 12:30 pm
By Sean Inman
Every beer geek has run into this scenario at least once:
Beer Geek: “Hey, let’s go out to Beer Bar ‘ABC.’”
Friend of Beer Geek: “I was thinking dinner would be better tonight because I’m tired of going to just drink.”
Beer Geek: “But I want my craft beer!”
OK, so my dialogue is not Oscar worthy but the point is that, at …
Q&A with bartender Raul Yrastorza (Las Perlas)
March 8, 2010 at 11:10 pm
L.A.’s top cocktail bars have become increasingly specialized, with spots like The Varnish focusing on classics, Copa d’Oro and Library Bar relying on the market, and La Descarga featuring rum. Downtown, three bars from Cedd Moses and 213 are committed to specific spirits. Seven Grand is a whiskey bar, Caña will soon focus on rum, and Las Perlas is a lime-hued haven for tequila and …
L.A. Beer Blast B9: Beer vs. Wine, Eagle Rock Brewery Beer Class, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, Stuffed Sandwich, The Surly Goat
March 4, 2010 at 5:29 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
Welcome to California (Beer)
March 4, 2010 at 8:45 am
By Sean Inman
Before the craft beer revolution, the beer world didn’t move much. Weeks and months would pass before anything interesting would happen. In fact, most news involved another regional brewery being taken over by a conglomerate or simply going out of business. Flash forward to now, there are websites galore that chronicle new beers and tracking beer release dates and distribution. You …
L.A. Beer Blast B8: Eagle Rock Brewery Grand Opening, Pliny the Younger, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Johnny’s, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, Naja’s Place, 38 Degrees, The Surly Goat, The York
February 25, 2010 at 6:17 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
Start your Engines: 3 Great SoCal Beer Addresses
February 25, 2010 at 9:00 am
By Sean Inman
It is easy to get in a negative mindset about the traffic here in Los Angeles. But don’t let that stop you from embarking on beer adventures. Believe it or not, but if you get up early on a Sunday morning, you can get to LAX from Glendale in under 30 minutes.
In that spirit, here are three addresses to …
Germans Mixologists Deliver The Bitter Truth to U.S.
February 23, 2010 at 12:09 pm
In the early days of cocktail culture, it literally wasn’t possible to produce a “cocktail” without bitters. Now the word has come to encompass a variety of categories, but bitters still remain an integral cocktail component. It’s an increasingly competitive market, but one of the leading producers is The Bitter Truth, a brand that German mixologists Stephan Berg and Alexander Hauck founded in 2006 and …
Pliny the Younger Rips Through L.A. Like a Tornado
February 22, 2010 at 1:37 pm
The Daily Pint sold out of their keg in only four minutes. At Blue Palms Brewhouse, it took a mere seven minutes to hit bottom. Verdugo Bar co-owner Brandon Bradford had to console despondent customers who didn’t get a taste. There might not be another beer in the U.S. that can inspire so much pandemonium, but when the brewer is Vinnie Cilurzo, the brewery is …
L.A. Beer Blast B7: Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Johnny’s, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, The Surly Goat, Verdugo Bar, The York
February 18, 2010 at 5:08 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
A Gathering of Belgians
February 18, 2010 at 9:00 am
By Sean Inman
Whenever I see even the smallest scene from the movie “In Bruges” (rent it now, if you haven’t seen it), I wish I was in Belgium having a brun or gueuze in a large, architecturally rich, beer café-riddled grand square. The next best thing is in our backyard.
Every year, Lucky Baldwin’s pub (either Pasadena or Sierra Madre) brings in all the …
Joseph Brooke: The Edison Director of Spirits
February 17, 2010 at 9:49 am
It’s been a good year for Joseph Brooke. The former Copa d’Oro barman took top prize with “ON THE ROCKS: The Search for America’s Top Bartender,” a televised cocktail competition. Now he’s become Director of Spirits at The Edison, a subterranean downtown pleasure palace in the Higgins Building’s original power plant. He recently discussed his latest developments in a short Q&A:
Food GPS: How did the …
Q&A with bartender Martin Cate (Smuggler’s Cove)
February 12, 2010 at 12:15 pm
We’re in the midst of a rum revival in the U.S., and one of the movement’s leaders is undoubtedly Martin Cate, who opened Alameda’s Forbidden Island in 2006 and recently stepped his game up at Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco. He discussed his background, approach and why rum has gone from supporting player to a lead role.
Do you consider yourself a bartender or mixologist?
Primarily …
Q&A with bartenders Christy Pope and Chad Solomon (The Tar Pit)
February 12, 2010 at 4:30 am
The world is flat. Thomas L. Friedman’s metaphor for the global economy also applies to the cocktail world. Increased communication channels, the rise of the internet and guest bartending stints have led to unprecedented exchange of ideas. At the forefront of the movement are bartenders like Christy Pope and Chad Solomon, who rose through Manhattan’s ranks before relocating to Los Angeles to help Audrey Saunders, …
L.A. Beer Blast B6: Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, City Sip LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, The Surly Goat, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar, The York
February 11, 2010 at 6:02 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
Storm Watch at Stone Brewing Co.
February 11, 2010 at 9:00 am
By Sean Inman
Unless you are a Level 7 beer geek with your own private Huggy Bear who will give you the word on the street, there will always be beers, breweries or events that will go unnoticed for years before you hear about it through the hop vine. And then, after you have drunk that A+ beer or toured that new brewery or attended …
Sake and Cheese Pairings at Arts District Loft
February 10, 2010 at 1:00 pm
Alcohol pairings have become increasingly popular (and ambitious) in Los Angeles, and The Cheese Impresario continues to offer a novel twist on the theme. The former ad exec left the world of Mad Men to follow her passion for artisan cheese. She’s since become a terrific ambassador for fromage, hosting a series of compelling events around the city. Last year, she hosted rum and chocolate …
Dozois Launches Pop-Up Cocktail Series
February 8, 2010 at 5:15 pm
Angelenos have already fallen for pop-up restaurants like LudoBites and BREADBAR’s Hatchi Series. Now bartender Michel Dozois (Church & State, Comme Ca, Seven Grand) is launching the city’s first pop-up cocktail series, titled “A Night with Névé.” The Névé Luxury Ice owner plans to host a different cocktail pop-up each month. On February 25 at Pasadena’s Bar Celona, expect a Spanish theme and two cocktails, …
L.A. Beer Blast B5: Tactical Nuclear Penguin, Allagash brewmaster Jason Perkins, The Surly Goat, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, Stuffed Sandwich, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar
February 4, 2010 at 5:54 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
The Madness of Tactical Nuclear Penguin
February 4, 2010 at 1:39 pm
The strongest beer on the planet comes courtesy of Scottish renegades Martin Dickie and James Watt, of BrewDog. Tactical Nuclear Penguin is 32% ABV, a truly hardcore brew from the hop mad showmen. Watt - The Emperor Penguin - recently e-mailed to weigh in on TNP and the future of extreme brewing at BrewDog.
Food GPS: Where did the name Tactical Nuclear Penguin come from?
Watt: The …
Q&A with Allagash brewmaster Jason Perkins
February 4, 2010 at 8:35 am
If New England ever hosts a brewing Olympics, there’s little doubt that Allagash Brewing Company would medal multiple times. The brewery is firmly rooted in Belgian brewing traditions, and longtime brewmaster Jason Perkins is helping to lead the brewery’s brigade in its 16th year. Perkins grew up in a small Vermont town and took a detour to Montana before settling at Allagash in 1998. He …
In Your Neighborhood: Galco’s
February 3, 2010 at 10:00 am
By Sean Inman
If you have lived in Los Angeles for awhile, you start to know the local institutions. The best mom-and-pop establishments. The stores, shops and restaurants that are not in the travel guides. Galco’s in Highland Park is one of those places.
The minute you utter the name Galco’s, you think of little seen and high quality craft sodas. …
Tactical Nuclear Penguin Blitzes L.A.
February 2, 2010 at 1:26 pm
The box was plain enough. In the upper right hand corner, the label just said “Royal Mail,” but I knew this is what I had been waiting for: Tactical Nuclear Penguin. No, it’s not a part of an insidious plot that will require Jack Bauer to intercede. It’s the strongest beer on the planet, courtesy of Scottish renegades Martin Dickie and James Watt, of BrewDog. …
L.A. Beer Blast B4: Stone CEO Greg Koch, Koningshoeven brewmaster L.J. Swinkels, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Verdugo Bar
January 28, 2010 at 6:22 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
Q&A with Stone Brewing Co. founder Greg Koch
January 28, 2010 at 11:30 am
Some breweries are just more brazen and aggressive, not only in their brewing style, but also in their marketing and sales push. In Southern California, look no further than Stone Brewing Co. founded by Greg Koch and brewmaster Steve Wagner in 1996. Since then, they’ve built the brewery into the San Diego leader, increasing production from 400 barrels in 1996 to over 100,000 barrels in …
Q&A with Koningshoeven brewmaster L.J. Swinkels
January 28, 2010 at 9:45 am
Trappist breweries are traditionally associated with Belgium, but there is an alternative in the Netherlands, Bierbrouwerij de Koningshoeven B.V. The Abbey’s monks started brewing beer in 1884 as a farming alternative, and the venture proved so fruitful that the brewery is currently celebrating its 125th anniversary. Bierbrouwerij de Koningshoeven markets itself as La Trappe, but in the U.S. and Canada, look for the Koningshoeven Trappist …
A Trip to Bountiful (Beer)
January 27, 2010 at 2:57 pm
By Sean Inman
Neither rain nor sleet nor snow will keep me from drinking beer. The 101 freeway can postpone it for a week though. This review of the beers from Ladyface Alehouse was planned for last week but traffic changed the schedule. Last Sunday, I spotted a break in the weather and a Los Angeles “clear” freeway and made my way to …
Q&A with Yuseff Cherney, Ballast Point head brewer/head distiller
January 21, 2010 at 10:00 am
Ballast Point Brewing was a 1996 outgrowth of the Home Brew Mart, which Jack White founded in 1992. The bulk of Ballast Point’s beer production is overseen by head brewer Yuseff Cherney at the Scripps Ranch facility, which opened in 2005. Cherney already helped lead Ballast Point into San Diego’s upper beer tier, and he recently expanded into the spirit world, which he considers “advanced …
Back to School at Eagle Rock Brewery
January 20, 2010 at 11:00 am
By Sean Inman
Every craft beer is a learning opportunity. New flavors. Re-discovered styles. Differing opinions. And that could be all in one pint of beer. But if you are looking for a more structured learning environment, then the monthly Education nights at Eagle Rock Brewery are for you.
I joined a large group in the tasting room of the brewery …
L.A. Beer Blast B2: The Surly Goat Primer, Russian River brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, Stout, Verdugo Bar
January 14, 2010 at 3:52 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
The Surly Goat Primer
January 14, 2010 at 11:07 am
In the past three years, Los Angeles has experienced an unprecedented beer-fueled growth spurt, with some passionate proprietors offering highly curated menus of seasonal craft brews. At the forefront of the movement you’ll find people like Ryan Sweeney, a dedicated craft beer advocate who co-owns Verdugo Bar in Glassell Park and oversees the beer list at BoHo. Now he and fellow Verdugoan Brandon Bradford have …
Who brewed this?
January 14, 2010 at 8:30 am
By Sean Inman
When I first moved to Los Angeles, one of the big chain grocery stores used to sell generic beer. It was in cans with blue stripes and it literally just said BEER on it. If you looked at the fine print you got some idea where it was made but who looked at labels back then? Certainly not me.
Beer labels are …
Q&A with Russian River brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo
January 13, 2010 at 4:27 pm
Russian River brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo has become a beer industry giant, but he started out making wine. It wasn’t until he grew impatient with the fermentation process that he embraced beer. The self-taught brewer helped launch Blind Pig Brewing Co. in Temecula, but sold his share in 1996 and moved with wife Natalie to Sonoma County. He caught on with Russian River Brewing Company, a …
Q&A with Death & Co. bartender/mixologist Alex Day
January 8, 2010 at 1:02 pm
Alex Day hasn’t worked in the bar industry for long, but he quickly vaulted to the forefront of the Manhattan cocktail movement based on determination and collaboration. He fell for Death & Co. as an early customer and has now been bartending for owners David Kaplan and Ravi DeRossi for over two-and-a-half years. He recently discussed his background, approach and influences over the phone.
Do you …
L.A. Beer Blast B1: Brewery Ommegang brewmaster Phil Leinhart, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Library Alehouse Holiday Brewfest, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, McG’s, Stuffed Sandwich, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar, The York
January 7, 2010 at 5:08 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
California Beer Festivals in 2010
January 7, 2010 at 8:40 am
By Sean Inman
Every Christmas I receive a calendar from one of my friends. It is usually something, how do I put this kindly, strange. Nuns playing basketball, zombie-esque sock puppets or cute little kittens. Each year, I use that calendar exclusively for beer festivals and events. I wish I could travel to all of them. In fact, I probably only …
Q&A with Brewery Ommegang brewmaster Phil Leinhart
January 6, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Brewery Ommegang has become one of the more renowned breweries in the Northeast since Don Feinberg and Wendy Littlefield founded the Belgian-style brewery in 1997. Ommegang resides in Cooperstown, New York, on a former hop farm near the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Phil Leinhart has been brewmaster since January 2007. The New Jersey native previously spent a dozen years with Anheuser-Busch. Since his arrival, Leinhart has …
Q&A with Rickhouse bartender Erick Castro
January 4, 2010 at 5:00 pm
Riverside County native Erick Castro has achieved acclaim as one of San Francisco’s top bartenders, but his career began at an unlikely but ultimately invaluable venue: a San Diego branch of BJ’s brewhouse. “Working at a busy bar, you learn organization, speed, dealing with people and managing time, which you can’t learn about in a book,” says Castro. He migrated north to Zocalo, a tequila …
Library Alehouse Holiday Brewfest Recap
January 4, 2010 at 9:30 am
On the last Tuesday of each month, Library Alehouse hosts a benefit for a different nonprofit. On December 29, the 14-year-old alehouse honored the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition, a “membership supported advocacy organization working to improve the bicycling environment and quality of life in Los Angeles County.” There were raffles for bicycles and Patagonia gear, and 15% of proceeds benefited the organization.
Owner Dave Lackman …
Blue Dog Beer Tavern and Boneyard Bistro
December 30, 2009 at 11:06 am
By Sean Inman
As promised in a previous post, I am traveling through the greater Los Angeles area to review restaurants from the craft beer perspective. Today we take a drive down Ventura Boulevard to a new destination and to a BBQ place that I have been meaning to try for quite a while.
Blue Dog Beer Tavern is in a busy stretch of roadway where Ventura …
What Beer Goes with Figgy Pudding?
December 23, 2009 at 10:30 am
By Sean Inman
The scene on Christmas morning is usually messy and chaotic. Wrapping
paper everywhere, kids running around with candy canes, stockings
emptied, half constructed toys for kids of all ages lying unattended
on the floor. But then, there is the calm of a grand Christmas feast.
Usually wine is served but beer is finally being recognized as an
excellent accompaniment to food. In that spirit, here are …
L.A. Beer Blast #46: Firestone Walker Dessert Pairing, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, McG’s, Stout, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar, The York
December 17, 2009 at 4:32 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the …
More Can Be Less
December 16, 2009 at 9:29 pm
By Sean Inman
As a connoisseur of beer, I have been to many, many, many beer bars. Now that Los Angeles is finally getting the quality craft beer that the rest of the nation has had for a longer time, I am spoiled with choices of where to go. No matter what part of this sprawling metropolis I find myself in, there is a …
The Bender: Bar Keeper owner Joe Keeper
December 11, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Five days a week, you’ll find Joe Keeper behind the bar at Bar Keeper, his unique Sunset Junction shop that sells barware and propagates ritual. He’s also working on acquiring a liquor license, and if the process goes smoothly, you’ll be able to purchase small-batch spirits and liquors at Bar Keeper by June 2010. In the meantime, we recently set out for two bars that …
L.A. Beer Blast #45: Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, Stout, Stuffed Sandwich, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar
December 10, 2009 at 5:42 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
5 Golden Rings
December 10, 2009 at 6:32 am
By Sean Inman
‘Tis the season and for beer geeks here in Los Angeles there is certainly reason to be merry. Beer bars are plentiful, Eagle Rock Brewery is actually making beer and will soon be open and the holiday beers are hitting shelves for all of us to enjoy by the hearth.
Because it is the spirit of giving, I have compiled a list …
L.A. Beer Blast #44: Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Lucky Devils, McG’s, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees, The York
December 3, 2009 at 4:01 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
Artisan Breweries: New Belgium Brewing
December 3, 2009 at 10:22 am
By Sean Inman
One of the non-beer reasons why I enjoy the craft beer community, and why I write about it’s many facets, is that there are no “artisan corporations,” but there are “artisan breweries.” The difference, to me, is akin to the subtle change from the word house to home. One is four walls and a roof and the other is where you …
Killer Beer Apps
November 25, 2009 at 11:13 am
By Sean Inman
I may be the only person in Los Angeles without a cell phone. I had one briefly but then the charger went AWOL. My subconscious wanted the thing gone. Why am I telling you this? It’s not because I need to hear another list of reasons of why I need to have a droid or rollover minutes. Everyone …
Q&A with Bouchon Beverly Hills sommelier Alex Weil
November 22, 2009 at 12:51 pm
The firestorm surrounding Bouchon Beverly Hills reached inferno status by November 16, but hours before the bistro’s opening party, sommelier Alex Weil took the time to discuss his background and approach to the wine program, which features bottles, carafes and glasses that express locality. Weil was born in D.C., grew up in L.A. and worked at Wally’s Wine & Spirits and both Mozzas before landing …
Thanksgiving Wine Pairings from domaineLA + Froma
November 20, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Traditional Thanksgiving dishes bring a unique set of challenges to wine pairing. Lucky for us that two L.A. based wine experts are sharing their suggestions.
domaineLA is a recent Melrose outgrown of Domaine547.com, Jill Bernheimer’s two-year-old online shop, forum and newsletter. She recently combed her 450 selections to recommend a range of turkey-friendly wines that are of course available at her shop.
For a traditional roasted …
Q&A with Copa d’Oro bartender-mixologist Vincenzo Marianella
November 20, 2009 at 6:30 am
When Vincenzo Marianella isn’t behind the bar at Copa d’Oro – which isn’t very often - you’ll find him exploring Los Angeles on his motorcycle. The native Italian built the bar program at Providence and launched a cocktail consulting company called MyMixology before teaming with Jonathan Chu on Copa, which occupies the forefront of the Westside cocktail scene. He recently sat down at the Santa …
L.A. Beer Blast #43: Utopias, Samuel Adams Brewer Bert Boyce, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar
November 19, 2009 at 5:57 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
From Hollywood to the Sea
November 19, 2009 at 9:07 am
By Sean Inman
You have probably noticed that the Food GPS Beer Blast has some new entries on the list and you might have said, “Why hasn’t the beer guy reviewed these new places?” But I am behind for a good reason. Los Angeles has become quite the mecca for really good beer bars (and there is the whole traffic thing too.)
First, …
Q&A with Samuel Adams brewer Bert Boyce
November 18, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Experimental Samuel Adams brewer Bert Boyce was in Los Angeles to promote the release of Utopias, a monster barrel-aged beer has that clocks 27% ABV. The San Diego County native has been a professional brewer for the past 13 years. He previously helped friend Eric Rose launch Hollister Brewing Company in Goleta and has been with Samuel Adams for the past two years. We met …
Samuel Adams Utopias, Beer to the Extreme
November 18, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Experimental Samuel Adams brewer Bert Boyce was in town from Boston to promote the release of Utopias, a monster barrel-aged beer that’s built in intensity since 2002. Utopias currently clocks 27% ABV, making it one of the most powerful beers ever produced. We met at The Golden State prior to an exclusive Samuel Adams dinner at Animal. Boyce discussed his extreme beer, which has a …
Vincenzo Marianella on the Art of Balancing Cocktails
November 16, 2009 at 3:39 pm
In the past year, Vincenzo Marianella has vaulted Copa d’Oro to the forefront of the Westside cocktail scene, but it might not be instantly apparent what separates his bar from others around L.A. As a result, he recently hosted a small group of writers to explain his personal vision for balanced, market-fresh cocktails.
Marianella ensures that each Copa cocktail has certain baseline hallmarks: “quality ingredients, …
Q&A with Absinthe manager Jeff Hollinger
November 16, 2009 at 9:15 am
Before Jeff Hollinger fell for cocktails, he was passionate about food. The Huntington Beach native attended the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. At Gordon’s House of Fine Eats - Gordon Drysdale’s cutting-edge but bygone restaurant in SoMa - he decided to move from the kitchen to the bar. Hollinger scored a coveted bartending job at Absinthe, which set the standard for classic cocktails in …
Tijuana Tequila Expo IX – Tijuana, B.C., Mexico – October 16 & 17, 2009
November 16, 2009 at 9:14 am
We rounded the corner at Tijuana’s jai alai palace and encountered a booze-soaked spectacle: twin rows of stalls as far as the eye could see dispensing unlimited pours of tequila. This was the ninth annual Tequila Expo and the primary reason we returned to Tijuana for a second time in four months.
Before we rushed the heavily branded booths, Bill Esparza – a tequila expo veteran …
L.A. Beer Blast #42: Hollywood BrewFest, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Johnny’s, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Naja’s Place, The York
November 12, 2009 at 6:15 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Battle of the IPAs
November 12, 2009 at 12:09 pm
By Sean Inman
If you are a fan of the India Pale Ale, then this is the Golden Age. Here in Los Angeles, we can get the Palate Wrecker from Green Flash in San Diego County all the way to 120 Minutes of hop madness from Dogfish Head in Delaware. There is no shortage of choices on tap or in bottles and if …
Get EntWined! at Vertical Wine Bistro
November 9, 2009 at 1:20 pm
David Haskell’s revamp of Vertical Wine Bistro is under way. Now that he’s overhauled the wine list and hired new chef Doug Weston (NeoMeze, Oceanview Bistro), the seasoned wine professional is starting to host fun events in Gale Anne Hurd’s second story Old Town Pasadena wine bar.
On November 4, Haskell debuted “Get Entwined!,” a weekly class featuring 3 wines paired with 3 dishes for $33. …
Q&A with Tony’s bartender Skyler Reeves
November 6, 2009 at 8:40 am
Skyler Reeves is a Michigan native who earned his stripes on the L.A. nightclub circuit before taking a chance on Tony’s, a bar on downtown’s eastern fringes owned by nightlife impresario Cedd Moses. The space has hosted a drinking establishment since the ’30s and the cherry bar dates to the ’50s, when the landlord discovered it on a hunting trip to Utah. At Tony’s, not …
L.A. Beer Blast #41: Craftsman founder Mark Jilg, Eagle Rock Brewery, Stout, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, Boneyard Bistro, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Library Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, Stuffed Sandwich, Verdugo Bar, The York
November 5, 2009 at 6:01 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Eagle Rock Brewery Ready to Brew
November 5, 2009 at 5:42 pm
We first checked in with Eagle Rock Brewery in April, before Jeremy Raub and father Steve started construction and Jeremy explained their background and vision. Now the Family Raub is finally on the verge of fermentation. If all goes well with the Health Department, they can be brewing as early as November 10, with beer released to the public just 2-3 weeks later.
Building and Safety …
Q&A with Craftsman Brewing founder Mark Jilg
November 5, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Mark Jilg was born in Idaho and raised a bi-coastal child, ping-ponging back and forth between L.A. and northern Virginia. He snagged a bachelor’s degree in Photo Science from Rochester Institute of Technology before returning to Southern California to work as an archival printer in the fine art photography world. He spent over seven years at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory before giving into his …
The Man Who Came to Dinner…with Beer
November 5, 2009 at 10:41 am
By Sean Inman
One day before a dinner party with an unknown amount of people and an unknown menu, I was given the task of bringing the beer because, well, I’m the one that never stops talking about beer. Mission Impossible it isn’t, but I wanted to impress. So here is what I did…
First, I dug a little deeper and found out that it …
L.A. Beer Blast #40: L.A. Beer Week Festival, Chimay Brewmaster Dominique Denis, Tomm Carroll’s European Beer Adventures, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, McG’s, Naja’s Place, Simmzy’s, Verdugo Bar, The York
October 29, 2009 at 4:45 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
Afternoon in the Garden of Craft Beer
October 29, 2009 at 12:02 pm
By Sean Inman
The end of the first of (many to come) L.A. Beer Weeks closed out on a picture postcard Southern California afternoon amongst the roses at Descanso Gardens.
It was an inspired choice. The gardens and the non-rock music made for a very calm and relaxed time and also made sure that people knew that the focus of the afternoon and …
“Meeting of the Great Minds of Tequila” at Rivera
October 28, 2009 at 10:54 pm
It was standing room only in Rivera’s “sangre,” a blood-red back room decorated with conquistador helmet lamps and walls crafted from backlit bottles of extra añejo tequila. Bartenders, bloggers, buyers and curiosity seekers paid rapt attention to “the Great Minds of Tequila.” Official de Tequila Tomas Estes and Partida Tequila brand ambassador Jacques Bezeuidenhout conducted a 13-pour clinic on tequila, including blanco, reposado, anejo and …
Q&A with Chimay brewmaster Dominique Denis
October 28, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Chimay is a revered Belgium brewery that dates to 1862, when Cistercian Trappist monks began producing beer and cheese to sustain the order, employ locals and generate money for their charitable foundations. For the past decade, brewmaster Dominique Denis has been entrusted with maintaining the consistent excellence of Chimay Red, White and Blue. On October 24, we met at the L.A. Beer Week Festival. He …
The First, Thankfully Not Last, L.A. Beer Week Festival
October 27, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Beer epicenters like San Francisco and Seattle already host their own beer weeks. This year, the L.A. beer scene finally advanced enough to justify its own Beer Week, filling 11 days with events at 35 establishments and drawing participation from over 50 breweries. The “week” culminated on October 24 with a massive beer blowout at La Cañada-Flintridge’s Descanso Gardens, which just might be the L.A. …
L.A. Beer Blast #39: Bike Bender #2, L.A. Beer Week, Brew & You L.A. Beer Week Recap, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, McG’s, Naja’s Place, Simmzy’s, Stuffed Sandwich, 38 Degrees Ale House & Grill, Verdugo Bar
October 22, 2009 at 2:04 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
L.A. Beer Week Recap, Part 1
October 21, 2009 at 11:55 am
By Sean Inman
I wonder if there is anything going on in Los Angeles that is beer related? Because I need a topic to write about for this week’s column.
All kidding aside, if you are reading this and still haven’t been to one of the events that make up L.A. Beer Week then shame on you. Each night has had at least (if …
Tomm Carroll’s European Beer Dispatches
October 19, 2009 at 11:25 am
Through the end of October, beer writer Tomm Carroll filed quick-hitting dispatches from Europe on his iPhone. His latest reports were updated throughout his hop-soaked journey.
Back to L.A. (The final post)
Mon, Nov 2, 2009 at 8:56 AM
It’s a long trip home from A-dam to LA, via Munich, so you know some final beers woul eb involved en route.
Final breakfast of champions: the so-so major Dutch …
L.A. BEER BLAST #38: L.A. Beer Week Rundown
October 15, 2009 at 6:19 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s …
Naja’s Place and Stone kick off L.A. Beer Week
October 15, 2009 at 12:45 pm
Last night, Naja’s Place kicked off L.A. Beer Week in style with a Stone blowout. There must have been 20 Stone staffers on hand, many wearing gargoyle button-downs advertising “Arrogant Bastard,” one of their signature beers. Curious beer drinkers and full-on beer geeks also got to mingle with approachable Stone luminaries like CEO Greg Koch, President/Brewmaster Steve Wagner and Head Brewer Mitch Steele. They brought …
Brew & You on McG’s and Karl Strauss
October 15, 2009 at 10:25 am
By Sean Inman
We beer geeks can be creatures of habit. We find a bar that has the comfy chairs and the rotating tap list and the knowledgeable staff and we just keep going back. But I am here to keep you on the lookout for the new or re-done or re-invented places that you should check out, at least once.
The first stop …
Tasting Panel Fetes Double Gold Winners at BLT Steak
October 11, 2009 at 4:32 pm
The The Tasting Panel Magazine is a 65-year-old publication that’s attempted to become “the voice of the wine, beer and spirits industry.” Twice this year, they’ve invited me to industry tasting events, beginning with an Albarino tasting at SLS Hotel. Better yet, on September 29, Tasting Panel feted “double gold” winners from San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the San Francisco International Wine Competition at …
L.A. Beer Blast #37: L.A. Beer Week, Brew & You Beer Evaluation, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Naja’s Place, Simmzy’s, Stuffed Sandwich
October 8, 2009 at 5:49 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Preview of L.A. Beer Week (October 15-25)
October 8, 2009 at 11:19 am
Beer epicenters like San Francisco and Seattle already host their own beer weeks. This year, the L.A. beer scene finally advanced enough to justify its own Beer Week, filling 11 days with events at 35 establishments and drawing participation from over 50 breweries. Jay Baum, one of the event’s organizers, recently spoke about the motivation and goals for the “week,” which culminates on October 24 …
How to Evaluate Beer Without it Becoming a Chore
October 8, 2009 at 10:30 am
By Sean Inman
You may have been at a winery tasting room or at a trendy new wine bar and seen the people swirling pinot noir or viognier in their glasses, trading knowing glances with the people around the table. Or you may have seen coffee buyers tasting the latest boutique bean from a tiny little espresso cup and then spit it out, then …
Third Annual Beer vs. Wine Dinner at El Bizcocho
October 8, 2009 at 10:29 am
For the past 18 years, El Bizcocho has been the culinary jewel of the Rancho Bernardo Inn, which resides in north county San Diego. On the night of October 16, the distinguished restaurant will host the Third annual Beer vs. Wine Dinner, pitting Stone Brewing Company co-founder Greg Koch against sommelier Barry Wiss to determine which beverage pairs best with El Bizcocho executive chef Judd …
Q&A with La Fenetre winemaker Joshua Klapper
October 5, 2009 at 3:43 pm
By Kathy A. McDonald
Joshua Klapper’s journey to becoming a California winemaker began in a dining room. As a server at chef Daniel Boulud’s celebrated Café Boulud in Manhattan, Klapper tasted an exquisite 1945 Chateau Latour. From that fortuitous sip, he knew his calling was wine: first as sommelier at Los Angeles’ Sona, where he advanced to wine director, and now as winemaker.
He learned …
Blind Spirit Tasting with Remy Martin Director Vincent Géré
October 2, 2009 at 6:14 pm
I entered the Beverly Hills Hotel’s Bar Nineteen 12 and was ushered to the back of the stately room to meet Remy Martin Director Vincent Géré, who was in town from France to conduct structured tastings with L.A. drink writers. We sat across from each other at the low table. He had already filled two rows of tumblers with “brown” liquors, five of his favorite …
L.A. Beer Blast #36: The Surly Goat, Dionicess V, Brew & You Hits GABF, Tomm Carroll’s GABF Adventures, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, McG’s, Simmzy’s, Verdugo Bar, The York
October 1, 2009 at 4:51 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Dionicess V at CitySip: Pizza, Beer and Giving
October 1, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Nobody needs an excuse to eat pizza and down beer, but charity is always a nice nudge. On May 17, professor Gev Kazanchyan (CSUN, College of the Canyons) hosted Dionicess IV, pairing Stone beer with Mignon Chocolate, and on September 26, he topped himself by staging Dionicess V at CitySip. The event featured seven beers and five pizzas and raised over $1000 for Real Medicine …
Brew & You at GABF
October 1, 2009 at 11:46 am
By Sean Inman
Close your eyes and imagine the largest buffet of beer choices that you can imagine. Can you possibly picture that there would be more beer than you could hope to enjoy? That is what I did as I stood in line along with thousands watching Homer and Marge cut the ceremonial ribbon along with Charlie Papazian at the 2009 edition of the …
Tomm Carroll’s Great American Beer Festival Adventures
September 25, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Through September 26, beer writer Tomm Carroll is filed quick-hitting dispatches from the Great American Beer Festival on his iPhone. Here are his latest reports from the Super Bowl of beer.
Coors Field/Sandlot Brewpub
Sun, Sep 27, 2009 at 5:55 PM
A gorgeous Denver afternoon at the ballpark. Like Saturday, Sunday has temps in the mid-80s, so with some time to kill, we score some tickets on the …
L.A. Beer Blast #35: Tomm Carroll’s GABF Adventures, Brew & You, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, McG’s, Simmzy’s
September 24, 2009 at 4:29 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
How to use the Beer Blast (effectively)
September 24, 2009 at 4:02 pm
By Sean Inman
Every Thursday, you get the Beer Blast by e-mail or online from Food GPS. You start scrolling down the list of taps and bottles available and you realize that the weekend is not nearly as long as you are going to need. But do not get discouraged or overwhelmed - you can make the most of this resource without having to spend …
L.A. Beer Blast #34: L.A. Beer Culture vs. Portland and San Diego, Q&A with BrewDog’s James Watt, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Dog Beer Tavern, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, The Daily Pint, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees
September 17, 2009 at 6:35 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
L.A. Beer Culture vs. Portland and San Diego
September 17, 2009 at 10:38 am
With the debut of L.A. Beer Week next month, I started to ponder how the beer culture and atmosphere is different (not better or worse, just different, no hate mail please) from city to city. And this leads me to wonder what the defining characteristics of the Los Angeles beer scene are right now and where it will be in 5 or 10 years. …
Q&A with BrewDog Managing Director James Watt
September 14, 2009 at 2:40 pm
James Watt grew up in the tiny fishing village of Gardenstown on Scotland’s northeast coast. He was on his father’s fishing boat from the age of 5 and still spends 12 weeks a year at sea, fighting towering waves to catch mackerel and cod. Watt attended attended The University of Edinburgh with longtime best friend Martin Dickie, studying law and economics. Two years after finishing …
Q&A with chef-mixologist Azmin Ghahreman (Sapphire Laguna)
September 12, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Globetrotting chef Azmin Ghahreman was born in Iran, raised in Switzerland and went to school in Russia. He’s also worked at branches of Four Seasons the world over and tasted “exotic cocktails from Thailand to Bali to Hawaii” before settling in as longtime Executive Chef of the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point. In early 2007, he opened Sapphire Laguna in a 75-year-old …
The Making of a Cocktail: The Negroni
September 11, 2009 at 12:41 pm
COCKTAIL: The Negroni
AVAILABLE AT: The Roger Room – West Hollywood, CA
WHEN: Nightly
The Negroni dates to 1919, when Italian count Camillo Negroni instructed the bartender at Florence’s Caffè Casoni to embolden his Americano. The bartender promptly substituted the soda water with a splash of gin. Thus the Negroni.
Bartenders have different takes on the Negroni, but the classic recipe involves equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Campari. …
L.A. Beer Blast #33: OC & SD Beer Crawl, Fall Beer Picks, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, The Daily Pint, Essex Public House, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Simmzy’s, Stuffed Sandwich, 38 Degrees, Verdugo Bar, The York
September 10, 2009 at 3:10 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Legends of the Fall - Beers to drink after Labor Day
September 9, 2009 at 11:27 am
By Sean Inman
Now that we have entered the Los Angeles version of autumn, it is time to move on to the beers of fall. Winter and summer seasonals get the most press due to the depth of choices available. It seems like every brewery has a Christmas beer or a summertime Kolsch. When people think of fall they zero in on the …
Orange County & San Diego Beer Crawl
September 5, 2009 at 3:59 pm
The mission was simple: invade Orange County and San Diego on August 30 and try as many great beers as possible over the course of four stops. The 6-person crew included Brew & You columnist Sean Inman, e*starLA, beer-mad prof Gev Kazanchyan and other adventurous hopheads.
We started at The Bruery tasting room, which has become a real destination thanks to Patrick Rue’s …
L.A. Beer Blast #32: Top Beer Publications, Q&A with Firestone Walker brewmaster Matt Brynildson, Fifth Amendment Alehouse, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, Boneyard Bistro, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees, The York
September 3, 2009 at 5:26 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Q&A with Firestone Walker brewmaster Matt Brynildson
September 3, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Matt Brynildson is a Minnesota native who had a background in chemistry and was on the verge of enrolling in med school. Instead he got a job at Kalamazoo Spice Extraction Company (Kalsec) in Michigan and was fortuitously placed in their hops lab. He became a voracious home brewer and was inspired by Bell’s Brewery, “a pioneering craft brewery in the Midwest. Larry Bell, …
Welcome to the Reading Room
September 3, 2009 at 10:44 am
By Sean Inman
The world of beer is an ever changing and evolving place and it can be daunting to stay current with the latest seasonals or new brewery openings, or what the other coast is drinking without losing valuable beer drinking time. What we need are trusted filters that guide us down the path to the good stuff.
Luckily for beer geeks, there are four …
Rustic Canyon Adds Draught Beer to Arsenal
August 28, 2009 at 2:47 pm
This news came a day too late to include in L.A. Beer Blast #31, but Rustic Canyon Wine Bar and Seasonal Kitchen just added three taps. According to Rustic Canyon co-owner Josh Loeb, “We are going to be rotating our three taps on a regular basis. I will almost always tweet the new beers when they are on, so if you guys are signed up …
L.A. Beer Blast #31: Lagunitas, Bear Republic, Russian River, Stone 13th Anniversary Celebration, Beachwood BBQ Sour Fest, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s Belgian Beer Festival, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees
August 27, 2009 at 5:06 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
13 is Now a Lucky Number
August 27, 2009 at 12:00 am
By Sean Inman
35. 3. 10. 13. No, these are not the quick pick for the next Lotto, these are the important figures from last Saturday’s successful beer celebration held at Cal State - San Marcos. If you were among the vigilant early birds that bought the $35 for a three-hour session filled with ten beer samples at the Stone Brewing 13th Anniversary …
Q&A with bartender Matt Biancaniello (Roosevelt Library Bar)
August 24, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Downtown may be the epicenter of cocktail culture in Los Angeles, but Hollywood and West Hollywood are coming on strong. For example, over the past eight months, Matt Biancaniello has slowly been building a name for himself at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel’s intimate Library Bar. The self-taught barman learned on the job as a caterer. He now spends five days per week at local farmers …
L.A. Beer Blast #30: Beachwood BBQ Sour Fest, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Cafe, Simmzy’s, 38 Degrees, The York, TAPS, AKASHA, California Hops Highway
August 20, 2009 at 5:47 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
California’s Hop Highway
August 20, 2009 at 11:19 am
By Sean Inman
You might ask: how much more hops can be added to beer before it tastes like sucking on a hop cone out in field of vines? Southern California has a cornucopia of hop-filled choices. We now get Dogfish Head’s 60, 90 & 120 Minute IPAs. Sierra Nevada has a new IPA in their rotation named after the machine that loads new …
L.A. Beer Blast #29: Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Cafe, Verdugo Bar, Emerging Female Craft Beer Voices
August 13, 2009 at 4:58 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Emerging Female Voices in the Craft Beer World
August 13, 2009 at 9:08 am
By Sean Inman
You might think that beer drinking - and the important act preceding it, beer brewing - is the private domain of men. Dimly lit bars with men stare mutely at plasma screens with flickering images of sports being played. Big burly men load sacks of malt and big kegs onto even bigger trucks. Well, I have two names that will dispel that …
L.A. Beer Blast #28: Tomme Arthur, Kevin Kansy, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Stuffed Sandwich, Wurstkuche
August 6, 2009 at 5:42 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area and learn about industry leaders. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll …
Beer Distributor Kevin Kansy of Artisan Ales
August 6, 2009 at 12:31 am
By Sean Inman
Do you know how the great craft beer that you’re holding in your hand got there? It’s not magic, it’s love, and that’s why Kevin Kansy of Artisan Ales is taking on the task of getting quality beer into hands all across Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
Since October 2007, Artisan Ales has operated in Pasadena across from Craftsman Brewing. The company started …
Sherry Tasting @ SLS with Lucas Paya
August 5, 2009 at 4:56 pm
On July 29, SLS Beverage Director Lucas Paya taught a master class on Sherry in the hotel’s prestigious Saam restaurant for a group of writers. The Barcelona native fielded questions like a skilled goalie, utilizing Pictionary-like drawings and informative stories to paint a compelling picture of one of his homeland’s finest exports.
Saam normally serves 20-course menus amidst Chihuly-like glasswork and mirrors. Of all the SLS …
Q&A with The Lost Abbey brewmaster Tomme Arthur
August 3, 2009 at 12:51 pm
San Diego native Tomme Arthur has become known for producing some of the best Belgian-style beers in the U.S. He was hooked on Belgians by college and had his first brewery job at age 23. Arthur started working with Pizza Port Solana Beach in 1997 and released his first Belgian-style brew that fall: Dubbel Overhead Abbey Ale. Arthur later teamed with Pizza Port owners Vince …
L.A. Beer Blast #27: L.A. Beer Float Showdown, Verdugo Bar Lost Abbey Night, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse 1st Anniversary, BoHo, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Johnny’s, Lucky Baldwin’s, Simmzy’s, Wurstkuche
July 30, 2009 at 3:12 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST …
L.A. Beer Float Showdown (Take 2)
July 27, 2009 at 11:18 pm
Sean Inman offers an outside perspective on the L.A. Beer Float Showdown:
When you think of beer, you probably think of BBQ or relaxing in the afternoon after the chores and errands are done for the day. But if I told you that beer and desserts are a great match, what would you say?
If you were at the 1st Beer Float showdown held at Blue …
Q&A with Bartender/Mixologist Ryan Magarian
July 27, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Portland-based bartending legend Ryan Magarian has been at the forefront of seasonal, market-driven mixology for the past decade. He’s left a lasting imprint on Pacific Northwest cocktail culture by consulting on a litany of the region’s leading cocktail programs. He’s also left a mark on L.A., bolstering cocktail programs for clients like SBE and Westside Tavern and training several of the city’s best bartenders. Magarian …
L.A. Beer Blast #26: L.A. Beer Float Showdown, Henry’s Hat, AKASHA, Beachwood BBQ, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Verdugo Bar, Home Brew Clubs
July 23, 2009 at 6:00 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST …
The Research and Development Arm of the Beer World
July 23, 2009 at 4:47 pm
By Sean Inman
Where would you find the creative center of the beer world? If you answered at a home brew club, then give yourself a pat on the back. These clubs are the research and development arm of the beer world and without them there would be no Angel City, Skyscraper or Eagle Rock breweries.
The fruits of this R&D labor were on full display last …
L.A. Beer Blast #25: L.A. Beer Float Showdown, Stone Sour Fest, L.A. Beer Week, Verdugo Bar, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock LA, The Daily Pint, The Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, The York, Canned Craft Beer
July 16, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Canned Craft Beer
July 16, 2009 at 11:42 am
By Sean Inman
This summer, someone might hand you a can of beer and it won’t look or taste familiar. Yellow, fizzy beer is no longer your only option. Canned Craft Beer (CCB) now has cache and is gaining shelf space around Los Angeles.
For years, cans were the sole domain of the large multinational conglomerates. To differentiate themselves and due to warehouse space and fiscal constraints, …
L.A. BEER BLAST #24: L.A. Beer Float Showdown, The Bender, 38 Degrees, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms, BottleRock, Daily Pint, Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Simmzy’s, Stuffed Sandwich
July 9, 2009 at 8:22 pm
The Bender: Eagle Rock Brewery owner Jeremy Raub
July 9, 2009 at 10:45 am
Jeremy Raub and father Steve hope to open Eagle Rock Brewery (in Glassell Park) by mid-September. While Jeremy still has spare time, it seemed like a good idea to take him on a tour of San Gabriel Valley beer bars to get his impressions on particular beers and the bars themselves. The longtime beer judge also had some tips for evaluating beer.
Stop #1: 38 Degrees …
Q&A with Topanga Vineyards winemaker Sandy Garber
July 7, 2009 at 4:22 pm
Food GPS is finally making an effort to spotlight winemakers’ unique backgrounds, approaches and perspectives. With that in mind, here’s a Q&A with Sandy Garber, who started Topanga Vineyards with husband Ralph Meyer. They both worked as sommeliers at top-flight L.A. restaurants in the ’80s and Sandy was the sales and marketing director for The Chalone Wine Group until 1998. They planted the first ninety …
Rules for Maximum Beer Festival Enjoyment
July 6, 2009 at 11:59 am
By Sean Inman
Summer is packed with powerhouse beer festivals, including the upcoming sour fests at Stone and Beachwood BBQ. Here are my rules for maximum beer festival enjoyment:
1. BE PREPARED - This is the homework portion. But it can be fun. Check out the official website for the festival. See which Breweries are participating and what they are pouring. What …
L.A. BEER BLAST #23: Essex Public House, 38 Degrees, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock, Daily Pint, Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s
July 2, 2009 at 8:38 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST …
North American Organic Brewers Festival Review
June 30, 2009 at 1:40 pm
By Sean Inman
The 2009 edition of the North American Organic Brewers Festival had a successful three-day run at Overlook Park in North Portland. Bright sunshine and a cool wind off the Willamette River made for an excellent environment to taste new beers and old favorites. 45 breweries were pouring 80 different beers over the three-day event that started at noon on Friday and …
L.A. BEER BLAST #22: Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms Brewhouse, BottleRock, Golden State, Johnny’s, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s
June 25, 2009 at 5:29 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. You’ll also discover great beer-related events in the area. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Look in the left sidebar, SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST …
Library-Inspired Cocktails at Cafe Pinot
June 25, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Some restaurants are turning to high-priced consultants to bolster their cocktail programs, but Café Pinot General Manager Brian Cousins looked next door to the library. The downtown flagship of the Los Angeles Public Library has one of the largest culinary collections in the country, and when Cousins isn’t on the restaurant floor, you can probably find him in the stacks, learning about culinary history and …
Dr. Bill Sysak’s Lineup for Stone Sour Fest
June 25, 2009 at 12:15 am
In March, Dr. Bill Sysak took over as Beverage Coordinator of Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens. On July 19, he’s expected to take the third annual Stone Sour Fest to new heights in Escondido. Sysak’s list features 45 kegs and 36 bottles, including Belgian breweries like Boon, Cantillon and 3 Fonteinen and domestic breweries like Russian River, Lost Abbey, The Bruery, Craftsman, Avery, New …
Allagash Week at BottleRock Downtown
June 22, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Allagash Brewing Company’s appearance at BottleRock follows “The Maine Event” at San Diego’s Blind Lady Ale House, where co-owner Lee Chase offered six Allagash brews on draught: White, Hugh Malone, Victoria, Curieux, Victor and Confluence. Beginning June 23, BottleRock beer expert Alex Macy actually one-ups the former Stone brewer by adding a keg of Allagash Four, which is brewed with four malts, four hops, four …
L.A. BEER BLAST #21: Beachwood BBQ, BoHo, BottleRock, Daily Pint, Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s, Verdugo, Wurstkuche
June 18, 2009 at 7:41 pm
Neil from Food Marathon and I discussed leading a Food GPS-related food marathon for a while. That day finally arrived on June 13, when a ravenous herd convened in the South Bay for back-to-back-to-back bouts with beer and food. We met at Simmzy’s, a new Manhattan Beach pub with 24 taps from brothers Mike and Chris Simms. We’ moved south to Naja’s Place, a twentysomething …
L.A. BEER BLAST #20: Alpine, Ballast Point, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms, BoHo, Daily Pint, Golden State, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s, Verdugo, Wurstkuche, The York
June 11, 2009 at 4:53 pm
We begin this week’s L.A. BEER BLAST in…San Diego?! Part of the reason is to introduce a new Food GPS feature – brewmaster profiles – and the other reason is that if you’re looking to take a beer-focused staycation, San Diego County’s incredible breweries and beer bars are only a two-hour drive from L.A.
When I met Alpine brewmaster Pat McIlhenney, the longtime fireman only had …
Q&A with Alpine brewmaster Pat McIlhenney
June 9, 2009 at 10:01 am
When we met Pat McIlhenney, the longtime fireman only had ten shifts left before turning his full-time attention to Alpine Beer Company, the East County brewery he founded in 2002. Good timing. In November, he and son Shawn began their expansion plans, which include tripling production and launching an upcoming brewpub. Later this year, the brewery-adjacent space will have 13 taps with at least 10 …
Q&A with Ballast Point brewmaster Colby Chandler
June 8, 2009 at 10:22 am
Colby Chandler started at Ballast Point almost 12 years ago and serves as brewmaster at the company’s original San Diego location, which shares space with the Home Brew Mart. He currently oversees the facility’s 1500-barrel production, which includes his Hout series, a limited line of sours that’s flavored with ingredients like black currant and cherry. Chandler has also been President of the San Diego Brewers …
Interview with Dr. Joel M. Fisher, LA WineFest founder
June 5, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Dr. Joel M. Fisher, a wine educator, columnist and sommelier, founded LA WineFest in 2005. The fourth annual WineFest is taking place June 6-7 at Hollywood’s Raleigh Studios, with portions of proceeds going to to the Children’s Tumor Foundation and the Hollywood YMCA. Booths will feature over 100 wineries, plus craft beer, sake, spirits and seminars. On Tuesday night, Dr. Fisher discussed his vision for LA WineFest …
Névé Rocks The Jumbo Ice at Church & State
June 5, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Exceptional bartenders and mixologists consider many factors when producing cocktails, including balanced flavors and presentation. However, until recently, one aspect was an afterthought: ice. “Drink Smith” Michel Dozois is working to convert bartenders, consumers and media members to his premium Névé Ice. As part of his push, he invited Heaven’s Dog bartender Jon Santer to Church & State to lead a convincing workshop about ice’s …
L.A. BEER BLAST #19: Bike Bender, Beachwood BBQ, Blue Palms, Daily Pint, Golden State, Johnny’s, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s, Verdugo
June 4, 2009 at 8:38 pm
On May 30, I joined forces with Pat Saperstein from Eating LA to co-host the first-ever Bike Bender. About 30 people rolled through Highland Park and Glassell Park, hitting multiple stops along a 10-mile route that showcased the neighborhood’s range. Along the way, Jeremy Raub and father Steve previewed Eagle Rock Brewery, supplying tastes of three different home brews that are all in contention for …
Beachwood BBQ Sour Fest August 25-31
June 2, 2009 at 1:16 am
The Beachwood BBQ Sour Beer Festival has been in the works for over two years, and from August 25-31, it will finally come to fruition for chef-owner Gabriel Gordon at his noted Seal Beach beer bar. Gordon appreciates the “complexity of flavor” in sour beers, plus the “vast scent profile” and “intense pop that leaves you wanting more.”
The week-long festival will feature 16-18 sours on …
Q&A with SLS beverage director Lucas Paya
May 31, 2009 at 4:28 pm
Many people in the restaurant industry would be satisfied with a prized post at El Bulli, but not Barcelona native Lucas Paya, who has always been inspired by new challenges. Paya worked as an El Bulli sommelier from 2002 to 2007. During that time, Ferran Adria’s close friend José Andrés would frequent the restaurant, and Paya got to know Spain’s second most famous chef. Paya …
Mick Fleetwood Discusses Wine
May 29, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Mick Fleetwood hosted a wine dinner on May 27 at the L.A. Live branch of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. The legendary Fleetwood Mac co-founder and drummer paired selections from Mick Fleetwood Private Cellar with dishes from his favorite SoCal restaurant. Before the dinner began, Fleetwood discussed his history and approach with wine. We were joined by Jonathan Todd, who oversees Fleetwood’s marketing, licensing …
L.A. BEER BLAST #18: Beachwood BBQ, BottleRock, Daily Pint, The Golden State, Johnny’s, Lucky Baldwin’s, Lucky Baldwin’s Delirium Café, Simmzy’s
May 28, 2009 at 6:16 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BEACHWOOD BBQ, BOTTLEROCK, THE DAILY PINT, THE GOLDEN STATE, JOHNNY’S, …
The Making of a Cocktail: Spanish Coffee
May 27, 2009 at 2:44 pm
COCKTAIL: Spanish Coffee
AVAILABLE AT: The Bazaar – Beverly Hills, CA
WHEN: Weekend Brunch
José Andrés may be working to redefine the way Angelenos view restaurant dining, but he can’t do it alone. At The Bazaar, the innovative Spaniard has surrounded himself with talented, creative people like beverage director Lucas Paya (a fellow El Bulli alum) and lead bartender Ben Browning, who have helped to ensure the cocktail …
Q&A with bartender/mixologist Ben Browning (Bar Centro)
May 24, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Ben Browning grew up in a small Missouri town called Kirksville and worked in a series of “country bars” before fulfilling a lifelong dream by moving to Los Angeles. He started on the Sunset Strip at House of Blues and transitioned over the hill to La Loggia, where SBE recruited him. At Foxtail, Browning trained with noted mixologist Ryan Magarian. His mentor left SBE and …
L.A. BEER BLAST #17: The Bruery, Dionicess IV, Mutineer, Simmzy’s, BottleRock Downtown, Blue Palms, Daily Pint, The Golden State, Verdugo
May 21, 2009 at 6:54 pm
It’s been an active week in the L.A. beer community. Here’s a quick rundown of recent events and openings before we get to the week’s best beer options:
In early 2008, it would have been farfetched to think that Placentia would one day become the center of the SoCal beer universe. Incredibly, Patrick Rue and Famille Rue already accomplished that feat for one day – May …
Dionicess IV: Beer, Chocolate and Charity
May 20, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Charity has to be the best possible reason to drink six craft beers and devour a box of artisanal chocolates. On May 17, Gev Kazanchyan provided that motivation when he hosted Dionicess IV, pairing Stone beer with Mignon Chocolate at Side Bar in Glendale. The event raised almost $1400 for the Real Medicine Foundation (RMF), an organization that provides humanitarian support to people living in …
The Bruery 1st Anniversary Party
May 19, 2009 at 3:06 pm
In early 2008, it would have been farfetched to think that Placentia would one day become the center of the SoCal beer universe. Incredibly, Patrick Rue and Famille Rue already accomplished that feat for one day – May 16 – when The Bruery hosted its first anniversary celebration.
Beer aficionados and industry professionals flocked to the far end of an O.C. business park to join the …
Death & Co. – New York, NY – May 3, 2009
May 19, 2009 at 4:00 am
Give me your number and I’ll call you as soon as a seat becomes available. That seems to be a common refrain at East Village speakeasies these days. We started in the phone booth at Crif Dogs, a.k.a. the “secret” entrance to PDT. We lifted the handle on the phone and a woman pulled open a secret door. We never saw the entire room because …
The Ginger Man – New York, NY – May 3, 2009
May 19, 2009 at 2:00 am
A bar with 70 taps isn’t necessarily a great beer bar, but when three of those taps are devoted to Dogfish Head, they’re clearly on the right track. At The Ginger Man in Midtown Manhattan, they’re on the right track a hell of a lot. So often that the bar consistently rates with Manhattan’s best.
The Ginger Man originated in Houston and spawned several spinoffs, including …
L.A. BEER BLAST #16 (May 14, 2009)
May 14, 2009 at 5:44 pm
L.A., we have a problem. That was the popular belief leading up to the first annual Craft Beer Fest L.A., which confirmed that Los Angeles has a viable craft beer scene after all. Over 850 beer-crazed Angelenos stormed the Echoplex to sample a variety of California craft beers and to learn from passionate beer professionals. Early aggravation quickly dissipated and the festival delivered a pivotal …
Craft Beer Fest L.A. Impressions
May 14, 2009 at 4:59 pm
L.A., we have a problem. That was the popular belief leading up to the first annual Craft Beer Fest L.A., which confirmed that Los Angeles has a viable craft beer scene after all. Over 850 beer-crazed Angelenos stormed the Echoplex to sample a variety of California craft beers and to learn from passionate beer professionals. Early aggravation quickly dissipated and the festival delivered a pivotal …
L.A. BEER BLAST #15 (May 7, 2009)
May 7, 2009 at 10:40 pm
The weekend’s top beer option is undoubtedly Craft Beer Fest L.A. Los Angeles Craft and Artisanal Beer Appreciation League (LA Cabal) is hosting the event on Saturday from 2 PM – 9 PM at the Echoplex. Craft Beer Fest L.A. features 26 beers from California breweries like The Bruery (Placentia), Craftsman (Pasadena), Port Brewing (San Marcos), Lost Abbey (San Marcos) and Telegraph (Santa Barbara). You’ll …
Q&A with bartender Daniel Shoemaker (Teardrop Lounge)
May 7, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Daniel Shoemaker
BAR: Teardrop Lounge – Portland, OR
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
I tend to shudder at the term mixologist. I have a true …
Q&A with bartender Thad Vogler (Bar Agricole)
May 4, 2009 at 10:49 am
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Thad Vogler
BAR: Bar Agricole – San Francisco, CA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
A bartender. I don’t know many people with any humility who …
Q&A with mixologist Jack McGarry (The Merchant Hotel)
May 2, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Jack McGarry
BAR: The Merchant Hotel – Belfast, Northern Ireland
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
I would consider myself a mixologist. A bartender to me, is …
On Tap at The York
April 30, 2009 at 8:36 pm
You won’t find an L.A. BEER BLAST this week, but The York co-owner Ryan Ballinger shared the plans for his taps and for Cinco de Mayo:
“The chocolate porter is gone and replaced by Alaskan Amber Ale. The Alaskan is a true amber ale–when I see it in the glass under our lights it looks like it is burning a delicious reddish-orange. It has a smooth, …
Bokisch Vineyards Tasting at Corkbar (April 24, 2009)
April 28, 2009 at 7:08 pm
On April 24, Corkbar co-owner Garry Muir hosted the downtown wine bar’s first winemaker event and tasting with Markus Bokisch of Bokisch Vineyards. The Lodi vintner attended UC Davis to study diseased plants and started working at Phelps Vineyards in 1989, which is where he fell for the grape. He returned to school to study viticulture and moved to Catalonia with his wife before returning …
Tequila Ocho Tasting at AMMO (April 23, 2009)
April 28, 2009 at 5:42 pm
Amy Sweeney has spent the past nine years building AMMO into a Hollywood restaurant with an ever-increasing commitment to seasonal, market-driven ingredients. She and executive chef Julia Wolfson have even extended that focus to the bottle. As a result, AMMO now features Small-Batch Socials, a tasting series that spotlights small-production liquor, wine and beer producers. On April 23, AMMO hosted Scott Haro from Tequila Ocho, …
L.A. BEER BLAST #14 (April 23, 2009)
April 23, 2009 at 5:08 pm
On April 16, Anat Baron premiered her craft beer documentary - “Beer Wars” - at UCLA’s Royce Hall. The event attracted beer luminaries like Stone Brewing Co. co-founder Greg Koch, Dogfish Head brewer Sam Calagione, Beer Advocate’s Todd Alstrom and Charlie Papazian - Brewers Association President and “cheerleader of the craft brewing industry.” The documentary illuminated some industry practices that were no-doubt common knowledge to …
Beer Wars Premiere @ UCLA (April 16, 2009)
April 23, 2009 at 4:36 pm
On April 16, Anat Baron premiered her craft beer documentary - “Beer Wars” - at UCLA’s Royce Hall. The event attracted beer luminaries like Stone Brewing Co. co-founder Greg Koch, Dogfish Head brewer Sam Calagione, Beer Advocate’s Todd Alstrom and Charlie Papazian, Brewers Association President and “cheerleader of the craft brewing industry.” The documentary illuminated some industry practices that were no-doubt common knowledge to …
Q&A with Cocktail Whisperer Jamie Boudreau
April 20, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Jamie Boudreau
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
I consider myself a bartender. I feel that the main difference between barman and mixologist is that one …
Q&A with bartender Sierra Zimei (Four Seasons)
April 19, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Sierra Zimei
BAR: Four Seasons – San Francisco, CA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist?
I am a bartender who has fun creating new cocktails, as well as mixing the …
Q&A with bartender Mark Buettler (Dressler)
April 18, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Mark Buettler
BAR: Dressler Restaurant - Brooklyn, NY
1.Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
Bartender. Mixology is something a good bartender should do, but is only one …
L.A. BEER BLAST #13 (April 16, 2009)
April 16, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Why should San Diego County have all the high-quality beer in Southern California? For years, that’s the question that Jeremy Raub and father Steve couldn’t shake. Two years ago, after “lamenting the fact that L.A. doesn’t have a great beer scene,” Jeremy and Dad decided to do something about it, outlining their vision for Eagle Rock Brewery. On April 13, Jeremy led a tour of …
Lawry’s “Talent Pool” Spirits Tasting on April 22
April 16, 2009 at 2:21 pm
On April 22 from 6 PM – 8 PM, Lawry’s is co-hosting a “Talent Pool” spirits tasting with The Tasting Panel magazine, featuring pours of luxury spirits they believe have “star quality.” Some featured spirits include Glenlivet 25-year, Chivas Regal 25-year, and the new Pernod Absinthe. Executive Chef Walter Eckstein has created special hors d’oeuvres to complement the spirits, including chipotle meatballs, prosciutto wrapped dates with goat cheese, lemongrass-cured salmon canapés, hickory bacon & roasted corn Gougères and Bloody Mary soup shots with shrimp and pickled vegetables. The cost is $36 per person, including tax and tip. Please call 310 360 6281, ext. 4, for reservations.
Eagle Rock Brewery Preview
April 13, 2009 at 11:57 pm
Why should San Diego County have all the high-quality beer in Southern California? For years, that’s the question that Jeremy Raub and father Steve couldn’t shake. Two years ago, after “lamenting the fact that L.A. doesn’t have a great beer scene,” Jeremy and Dad decided to do something about it, outlining their vision for Eagle Rock Brewery. Earlier today, Jeremy led a tour of the …
Q&A with bartender Christian Gaal (Apothecary)
April 13, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Christian Gaal
BAR: Apothecary Bar + Lounge - Philadelphia, PA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
I consider myself a bartender, because that is what the job …
Q&A with bartender Joy Richard (Tremont 647)
April 13, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Joy Richard
BAR: Tremont 647 - Boston, MA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
A bartender. The time I spend creating cocktails is because I enjoy
the creative …
Casa Noble Tequila Tasting at Maison 140
April 13, 2009 at 10:25 am
On April 7, Casa Noble co-founder David Ravandi hosted a small group of liquor writers at Maison 140 – a boutique Beverly Hills hotel, to showcase their premium organic tequilas. We gathered in the luxe black bar, surrounded by tongue-in-cheek silhouettes, to explore the differences in Casa Noble’s five-bottle portfolio. It was a unique learning opportunity that left a lasting impression.
Ravandi and business partner Jose …
Q&A with bartender Chris Bostick (Beverly Hills Hotel)
April 11, 2009 at 11:26 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Chris Bostick
BAR: Beverly Hills Hotel - Beverly Hills, CA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
Without question, Bartender. Having been in this industry for well …
L.A. BEER BLAST #12 (April 9, 2009)
April 9, 2009 at 7:50 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BLUE PALMS BREWHOUSE, DAILY PINT, THE GOLDEN …
The Bruery – Placentia, CA – April 3, 2009
April 9, 2009 at 11:52 am
Orange County native Patrick Rue attended Chapman law school and worked at a real estate firm, but it was just a matter of time before he turned to beer. 11 months ago, the longtime home brewer launched The Bruery with wife Rachel, specializing in Belgian-style beer. The Bruery is gaining well-deserved traction throughout the region, but to fully appreciate their mission, it’s worth a weekend …
April 16 “Beer Wars” Screening and Panel at UCLA
April 8, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Anat Baron’s craft beer documentary - “Beer Wars” - premieres at UCLA’s Royce Hall on April 16. The event is free, but you have to RSVP HERE in order to attend. After the 5 PM screening, Ben Stein moderates a 30-minute discussion with beer experts like Todd Alstrom (Beer Advocate), Sam Calagione (Dogfish Head), Charlie Papazian (Brewers Association President), and Greg Koch (Stone Brewing Co.). …
Martin Miller’s Gin Bar Safari (March 31, 2009)
April 7, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Martin Miller’s Gin co-founder David Bromige was in town to explore L.A.’s cocktail scene, and L.A. Marketing Manager Silamith Weir invited a few fortunate bartenders and writers to join them for a Westside cocktail “safari.” We started at Copa d’oro, owned by Jonathan Chu and overseen by local cocktail legend Vincenzo Marianella.
While Marianella began crafting our first round of Martin Miller’s Gin cocktails, Bromige shared …
L.A. BEER BLAST #11 (April 2, 2009)
April 2, 2009 at 7:02 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BLUE PALMS BREWHOUSE, CORKBAR, DAILY PINT, THE GOLDEN STATE, …
Eggleston & Weir Win Rosangel Cocktail Competition
April 2, 2009 at 10:41 am
Last night, Malo hosted the finals of Gran Centario’s Rosangel Cocktail Competition, with all five entries containing Rosangel, a hibiscus-infused, port barrel-aged reposado tequila.
There were two ways to win. Matty Eggleston (The Hungry Cat & The Varnish) was the judges’ choice for his hibiscus tequila cocktail with Nutella and frothed milk. For capturing the cocktail crown, Eggleston snagged $250 and will be featured in the …
L.A. BEER BLAST #10 (March 26, 2009)
March 26, 2009 at 7:52 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. SUBSCRIBE to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BLUE PALMS BREWHOUSE, DAILY PINT, THE GOLDEN …
35¢ Depression Era Cocktails at The Edison on Thursdays
March 26, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Every Thursday from 5 PM – 7 PM, The Edison now features Depression Era Cocktails. This week, beverage manager Aidan Demarest is preparing The Direct Flight - Aviation Gin with a Splash of Pernod and a Squeeze of Blood Orange.
The Sporting Life 1st Anniversary Party @ Bar Keeper
March 26, 2009 at 11:29 am
Prior to World War II, Los Angeles was a center for cocktail culture, home to America’s first Bartenders’ Guild and nationally influential. After the war, L.A. was supplanted by cities like New York and New Orleans. For decades, L.A. bars touted style over substance, but in the past few years, local bartenders and business owners have banded together to reverse that trend. As a result, …
Q&A with bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler (Clyde Common)
March 23, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Jeffrey Morgenthaler
BAR: Clyde Common
www.jeffreymorgenthaler.com
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
I think of myself as a bartender who takes his job very seriously. I’d be …
Horse Brass - Portland, OR - March 6, 2009
March 22, 2009 at 5:27 pm
For over a year, Intelligentsia baristas Ryan Willbur and Devin Pedde have discussed the Horse Brass with the kind of reverence that Catholics reserve for the Vatican. During the United States Barista Championship, I had an opportunity to join them at the SE Portland pub, and the beer list alone nearly had me speaking in tongues.
Every seat in the sprawling pub was filled, and almost …
L.A. BEER BLAST #9 (March 19, 2009)
March 19, 2009 at 3:44 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Subscribe to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BLUE PALMS BREWHOUSE, BOHO, DAILY PINT, THE …
Rosangel Cocktail Competition Culminates on April 1 at Malo
March 17, 2009 at 5:20 pm
At Sunday’s anniversary party for The Sporting Life - the Los Angeles bartenders’ guild – Malo Beverage Manager Christine D’Abrosca announced the Rosangel cocktail competition, which is designed to promote female mixologists, though bartenders of both genders are eligible to compete. Rosangel Gran Centenario is a hibiscus-infused, port barrel-aged reposado tequila, and it must appear in every submission. Submit your recipe by midnight on March …
BottleRock Goes Sustainable, Organic and Biodynamic
March 16, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Beginning April 1, BottleRock celebrates Earth Day (April 22) by offering a selection of beers and wines made using sustainable, organic, biodynamic or photovoltaic practices. BottleRock General Managers Randi Leehan and George Skorka chose the following options:
Organic beers include Brasserie Dupont Foret Saison Ale ($13), Samuel Smith Lager ($11) and Schneider Weisen Edle-Weisse ($12).
Biodynamic white wines are highlighted by 2007 Abad Dom. Bueno Godello, Bierzo, …
Silverlake Wine Residency at The Standard Downtown LA
March 16, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Beginning March 18, Wednesday nights in the downtown Standard LA lobby lounge will host Randy Clement and Wilder Alvarado from Silverlake Wine, who will pair three boutique, small-production wines with snacks from the hotel. According to SLW’s informative e-mail, Silverlake Wine will “design the wine flights around either a particular type of grape, maybe one specific wine maker, or maybe wines that come from a similar region or climate.” The pairing lasts from 5 PM – 8 PM and costs $20 per person. Clement also promises “DJs spinning, people chillin’/relaxin’/chillaxin’.”
Parking is available in the lot in front of the hotel for $8.
Clyde Common – Portland, OR – March 4, 2009
March 16, 2009 at 11:51 am
A restaurant with a pig diagram logo commands attention. Clyde Common has that covered. The Ace Hotel-adjacent establishment also has a reputation for producing some of the best market-driven cuisine in Portland. Two months ago, they snagged one more reason to brag: Jeffrey Morgenthaler, a long-time Eugene bartender who’s built a name for himself in the blogosphere due to his pinpoint cocktail knowledge. Now he’s …
Dozois mans the bar at Church & State
March 16, 2009 at 10:40 am
At yesterday’s first anniversary party for The Sporting Life - the Los Angeles bartenders’ guild - noted “drink smith” Michel Dozois revealed he’s been behind the bar at Church & State for the past three weeks. So far, the owner of Névé Luxury Ice is intent on “executing classic cocktails amazingly well,” but in the future, Dozois may work with Executive Chef Walter Manzke to …
Joe Keeper’s Review of Square One Botanical
March 14, 2009 at 11:53 am
By Joe Keeper, who owns Bar Keeper in Silver Lake
In preparation for the “Sporting Life”, the Los Angeles Bartender’s Guild one-year anniversary party, I have been receiving bottles of liquor from various distributors.
I have tasted “Eden in a Bottle”. I have had the privilege, according to Allison Evanow, Founder and CEO of Square One Organic Spirits, to be the first person to try SQUARE …
L.A. BEER BLAST #8 (March 12, 2009)
March 12, 2009 at 6:55 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Subscribe to Food GPS and you’ll receive the L.A. BEER BLAST by e-mail.
This week’s bars: BLUE PALMS BREWHOUSE, DAILY PINT, THE …
Q&A with bartender Joseph Brooke (Copa d’Oro)
March 6, 2009 at 8:40 am
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
the only discernable difference between the two is that a mixologist is allowed to take an extra five minutes per …
L.A. BEER BLAST (March 6, 2009)
March 6, 2009 at 1:27 am
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Bars and restaurants are only listed if their selection has changed in the past week. Subscribe to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
Corkbar to Open March 5
March 3, 2009 at 11:58 am
For Corkbar, Managing Partner Caleb Wines, John McGonigle, Garry Muir, Chris Schiffman and Craig Hoffman teamed up to “re-create the California wine tasting experience.” Beginning Thursday, March 5, expect 100% California wines, including more than 40 wines by the glass. Corkbar will gladly you pour you a flight of five wines, one ounce apiece. You’ll also find a dozen beers, half on tap and mostly …
Q&A with bartender Billy Fanning (CASA)
March 3, 2009 at 11:36 am
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Billy Fanning
BAR: CASA
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
Definitely a bartender. Mixology is simply one aspect of bartending.
2. How did you …
CUT the foil, Dana Farner dares you
February 27, 2009 at 10:00 am
By Matthew Kaner
Wolfgang Puck owns Spago. He also owns other restaurants, too. Dana Farner is the Beverage Director of CUT and sidebar, both in the Wolfgang Puck umbrella. There’s a legacy to uphold, and in short she’s got her work cut out for her, no pun intended…Dana delivers. I’ve had the great pleasure of getting to know Dana over the …
L.A. BEER BLAST (February 26, 2009)
February 26, 2009 at 5:50 pm
The L.A. BEER BLAST is a weekly newsletter designed to let Food GPS readers know about what’s new at select L.A. bars and restaurants with great beer selections. Expect a new L.A. BEER BLAST every Thursday evening, in time for the weekend rush. Bars and restaurants are only listed if their selection has changed in the past week. Subscribe to Food GPS and you’ll receive …
Corkage Be Gone at Patina Group Restaurants
February 26, 2009 at 7:46 am
Joachim Splichal’s Patina Restaurant Group has lifted corkage fees at all Los Angeles locations except Patina through the end of 2009. Your options include Café Pinot, Pinot Bistro, eat. on Sunset, Zucca Ristorante, Kendall’s Brasserie and Bar and Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse. The corkage fee at Patina is $30 per bottle.
The Varnish Initial Report and Cocktail Menu
February 25, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Last night, acclaimed bartenders Eric Alperin and Sasha Petraske and history-conscious entrepreneur Cedd Moses opened The Varnish behind Cole’s. Frequent Food GPS contributor Matthew Kang was there and reported about the experience on his “Mattatouille” blog. Kang captured the scene and featured lush photos of the cocktails and vintage décor, including an old-fashioned cash register and telephone. Kang, a cocktail aficionado, proclaimed the cocktails “standard-bearing.” …
Q&A with bartender Chris Ojeda (The Varnish/The Edison)
February 25, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Cocktail culture is thriving in large part due to a passionate contingent of exceptional bartenders and mixologists. This feature places a spotlight on the craftspeople behind the bar, and not just the structure itself.
NAME: Chris Ojeda
BARS: The Varnish / The Edison
1. Do you consider yourself a bartender or a mixologist? What’s the difference?
Definitely a “Bartender”. When a chef is a master of their craft …
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