Founded by Efrain Lopez Gurza in 2007, Tequila Semental is an ultra premium line of triple distilled, 100% blue agave tequilas. According to its press materials, Tequila Semental derives its name from a special caste of “the bravest and most powerful bulls,” known as Sementals, that protected agave fields in ancient times. Gurza’s youthful experience with a Semental stayed with him and became the embodiment of his tequila brand.
When the booze fairy recently delivered not one, but all three expressions in the Tequila Semental range for review, I knew I had to call for backup. Enter Rivera mixologist Julian Cox, who graciously set aside some down time before dinner service and joined me in exploring the Tequila Semental line: Silver, Reposado, and Añejo.
Before getting into the tasting notes, I should mention the handsomely designed French bottles. They’re surprisingly heavy, probably because they’re double glass. Each bottle is individually numbered, with barrel and bottling dates, and topped with a sealed cork bar tap. The most eye-catching detail is the clever use of the Semental image, as seen at the top of this post. Backlighting frames the illustration (printed in reverse) through the front of the bottle, creating a nice effect for display.
Tequila Semental
- 100% blue agave
- Triple distilled
- 40% ABV
- www.tequilasemental.com
Tequila Semental is currently available in Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Tequila Semental Silver
Tequila Semental Silver
- Bottle: 03706
- Bottled: 3-30-07
- Suggested retail: $39.00
TASTING NOTES
- Color – Clear.
- Nose – Initial hints of agave with white pepper notes.
- Taste – Hints of lemon and spearmint.
- Finish – Short, crisp, and slightly sweet.
With its subtle flavor profile and short, smooth finish this plata is an ideal cocktail mixer. Julian thought the Silver would play well with the fresh, seasonal ingredients he favors in his cocktails.
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Tequila Semental Reposado
Tequila Semental Reposado
- Bottle: 22946
- Barrelled: 12-17-07
- Bottled: 6-6-08
- Suggested retail: $48.00
TASTING NOTES
- Color – Golden honey.
- Nose – Earthy and spicy, with vanilla and cracked pepper notes.
- Taste – Flavors of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and peppercorns.
- Finish – Long, spicy, and creamy.
Thanks to the introduction of new, medium-toasted American oak barrels in the aging process, the reposado demonstrates remarkable complexity and depth. The spicy finish lingers for quite some time, offering an excellent sipping experience. A superb reposado and easily our favorite of the three Semental expressions.
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Tequila Semental Añejo
Tequila Semental Añejo
- Bottle: 08669
- Barrelled: 9-21-06
- Bottled: 12-24-07
- Suggested retail: $59.00
TASTING NOTES
- Color – Amber.
- Nose – Initial grapefruit and mandarin orange notes.
- Taste – Caramel, honey, and cherry flavors with a hint of smoke.
- Finish – Lightly spiced, smooth and creamy.
New French and American Oak barrels provide the añejo rich, luxuriant flavors balanced between fruit and spice. Semental suggests enjoying this fine añejo in a brandy snifter, the better to appreciate the lovely nose and finish.
On Saturday, February 6, Vertical Wine Bistro is teaming up with local bloggers Matt Robold (RumDood), Matthew Kang (Mattatouille), and Fiona Chandra (GourmetPigs) to host a special charity event benefiting the victims of the devastating Haiti earthquake.
“Haitian Libations” will take place in the restaurant’s bar and lounge from 10pm to close. 50% of all wine, cocktail, and food profits will benefit Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ). Established in early 2009, APJ is a fundraising effort that encourages peace and social justice and addresses issues of poverty and enfranchisement in communities around the world.
For the fundraiser, the three bloggers have prepared a special cocktail menu: the Vieux Carré, the Aviation, and RumDood’s own Port-Au-Prince (check out Matt’s blog for the recipe). The best part? All three bloggers will be mixing these drinks behind the bar!
Vertical Wine Bistro’s donation will help support a special relief project spearheaded by APJ board members Paul Haggis (director of the Oscar-winning “Crash”) and actress Maria Bello. The pair recently arrived in Haiti, personally delivering much-needed funds and supplies. For the latest on their efforts, read Maria’s series of blog posts at The Huffington Post, beginning with her January 21st entry, “On the Ground in Port-au-Prince.” For over a year, APJ has worked closely with Father Rick Frechette of St. Damien Hospital in Port-au-Prince, the only free pediatric hospital in the poverty-stricken Caribbean nation. St. Damien, which itself sustained substantial damage in the quake, has been sharing medical supplies with other relief workers and facilities in need, while also providing aid to countless victims as one of the area’s few semi-functioning medical facilities.
Haitian Libations
A Benefit for Haiti
Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010
10pm-2am
Vertical Wine Bistro
70 N. Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
(626) 795-3999
www.verticalwinebistro.com
Facebook: verticalfanpage
Twitter: verticalbistro
Image and logo: Vertical Wine Bistro
An occasional roundup of L.A. cocktail culture in various media.
Before recapping a busy January 2010 (see below) let’s take one last look at December 2009 and the decade that was.
In its Dec. 29th edition, the NY Times published A Decade of Invention and Reinvention, its look at mixology trends of the decade. Topping the list is the Gin-Gin Mule, the gin-based take on the Moscow Mule created by Audrey Saunders (Pegu Club). It’s now on cocktail menus across the country, and here in L.A. you can get the definitive version at Saunders’ Tar Pit. Another new classic is PDT’s Benton Old-Fashioned, created in 2007 by Don Lee. New York Magazine posted the PDT recipe in its April 14, 2008 issue. LAist recently posted the recipe for a local version, Little Dom’s Bacon Old Fashioned. Finally, The Varnish is name-checked in the “Bartender’s Choice” trend, a cocktail menu option that’s resulted from bartenders raising “their level of skill and scholarship” and customers having “an increased sense of adventure” and a willingness to put their drink choices in bartenders’ hands.
Trident - The Tar Pit
In his Best Dishes of 2009, Jonathan Gold says an Aviation is always his first drink of the evening at The Varnish, “a civilized temple of spirits where bliss is measured out by the dram.” Mr. Gold also lists the beer float at Golden State, a “mind-blowing way to complete a meal, all cold creaminess and explosive fizz, innocent sweetness and a blast of pungent, hoppy bitterness.”
Just in time for New Year’s Eve, the LA Times published an article on sherry cocktails, including recipes for the Montresor & Fortunato (the Roger Room), the Golden Boy (the Bazaar), and the Trident (the Tar Pit).
Speaking of December 31st, if you want to relive some of the downtown festivities (or just need help remembering), the LA Weekly posted a NYE Downtown Crawl slideshow that includes images from The Varnish, Cole’s, and Seven Grand.
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And, now…on to 2010!
The January 2010 issue of LA Times Magazine features several versions of sangrita to pair with high-end tequila, including recipes from Julian Cox and Jennifer Stockley.
“I travel the whole U.S. right now with what I’m doing, and probably the most exciting (cocktail) scene at the moment is in Los Angeles.” ~ Charlotte Voisey
Mutineer #9
The preceding quote can be found in the current issue of Mutineer Magazine (#9, Jan-Feb), in an interview with Portfolio Ambassador Charlotte Voisey (William Grant & Sons). She also says Los Angeles is “just on fire” and notes the city’s “great history during Prohibition.” Also in the issue, blogger Marvin Gapultos (Burnt Lumpia) offers an in-depth look at at The Pharmacie, the roving underground cocktail party. The article is accompanied by original paintings from Brent Estabrook.
Musso & Frank recently celebrated its 90th birthday, and to mark the occasion NPR’s Weekend Edition Sunday aired this story on January 3rd. Later that week, the LA Times published an interview with Musso & Frank owner Jordan Jones, who discusses some of the changes coming to the venerable Hollywood restaurant now that his family has sole control of the business. Not to be missed is a related article that profiles Musso’s bartender Ruben Rueda.
On January 10, the NY Times posted a review of the Roger Room, describing it as “a place of reverse snobbery, where you go to avoid running into celebrities and their ear-pierced bodyguards.” The article then notes that Cameron Diaz and Fiona Apple are regulars, which is not only contradictory but, frankly, somewhat disappointing.
Each year, the online magazine StarChefs names its Rising Stars, up-and-coming chefs and culinary professionals who “represent the vanguard of the contemporary American dining scene.” On January 11, StarChefs announced its 2010 Los Angeles-San Diego Rising Stars, including mixologists Eric Alperin (The Varnish) and Julian Cox (Rivera).
Also this month, StarChefs posted its overview of the Los Angeles mixology scene, with cocktail recipes:
- Gin Fix by Eric Alperin (The Varnish)
- Fields of Gold by Joel Black (The Doheny)
- Whisky Smash by Tristan Price (Café Pierre)
- Four Aces by Damian Windsor (The Roger Room)
Given the amount of praise he’s received in the last several months, Matthew Biancaniello (the Roosevelt Hotel) might have to start preparing his own Rising Star speech. On January 15, the Daily Dish posted a feature on his latest creations for the Library Bar: cocktails served in eggshells. To go with the article, the Times includes his Indian Summer cocktail recipe.
Last week, LA Times Magazine posted a preview of La Descarga, the rum-centric bar set to open on Western this Tuesday, February 2nd. Shortly thereafter, Eater LA and Thrillist had sneak peeks of their own online. The drink menu is overseen by Pablo Moix (Portfolio Mixologist for Bacardi USA) and Steve Livigni (the Doheny), featuring cocktails such as Papa’s Daiquiri, Tapping the Admiral, and the Bad Spaniard. The “secret entrance” and reservations-only policy (made via e-mail) are reminiscent of San Francisco’s Bourbon & Branch; here’s hoping the cocktails justify the comparisons.
Food & Wine Feb. 2010
The January 29th issue of LA Weekly features Steve Julian’s profile of Julian Cox. You can listen to interview excerpts at Offramp on KPCC.
The latest issue of Food & Wine (Feb. 2010) features a “Invent Your Own Cocktail” party, with cocktails by Eric Alperin and food by Jason Travi (Fraiche). Elsewhere in the issue, “The New Cocktail Boutique” rounds up the new breed of cocktail shop, including L.A.’s own Bar Keeper. And don’t miss the Belgian beers paired with Asian dishes from the upcoming Lukshon, courtesy of Sang Yoon (Father’s Office).
Now that Steve Jobs has finally unveiled the iPad (aka The Tablet That Launched a Million Tampon Jokes) and the world can collectively breathe again, it’s time to focus on more serious matters. No, I’m not talking about health care or the economy. I refer of course to the never-ending search to find the world’s best bars and restaurants.
Since 1996, BlackBook Magazine and City Guides have offered the best in restaurants, nightlife, travel, fashion, entertainment, and the arts. In print and online, BlackBook covers modern popular culture with sophistication and style.
With the BlackBook Guides iPhone App, readers on the go can get the lowdown on over 50 cities around the world. From velvet ropes to dive bars, mobile users can get all of their location-based BlackBook info for free. Even better, you can use the guides to get BlackBook Access at special BlackBook-curated venues around town, featuring free drinks, discounts, and line-skipping tips.
Just a few of the local BlackBook Perks include:
- Stone Rose Lounge: 30% off
- Whiskey Blue at the W Hotel: 30% off
- The Standard: Free appetizer with the order of an entrée at The 24/7 Restaurant.
For more information and to download the BlackBook iPhone app, please visit:
www.blackbookmag.com/mobile
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Foursquare Integration
Hooked on foursquare? Now you can check-in directly from the BlackBook app. The foursquare integration is seamless; just look for the “Check in to Foursquare” button at the top of any venue listing.
So, not only will you get the inside info on that red-hot restaurant everyone is trying to get into, you can let everyone know you’re The Mayor, too.
Mashable likes what it sees, naming BlackBook one of the 10 Foursquare Apps You Can Use Right Now.
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Robert Burns | Image: PD-ART (Wikimedia Commons)
It’s January 25, and on this day in 1759, the great Romantic poet Robert Burns was born. To celebrate Burns Night, people around the world will gather for a Burns Supper and eat haggis, drink whisky, and recite Burns’ poetry. Now, any event that calls for drams of whisky is fine by me, but a celebration of the life and poetry of Scotland’s National Poet seems especially apropos. Thanks to a ban here in the States, we don’t have access to proper haggis (though apparently that may change*), but I can certainly do right by Mr. Burns with a dram (or two) of the uisge beatha (“water of life”).
Liquor.com has a few suggestions for single malts to pour for Burns Night: The Balvenie Madeira Cask (pictured right), The Glenlivet Nadurra Triumph, and The Glenmorangie Astar. Great selections to be sure, but personally I’ll be sipping The Balvenie tonight (see my review for tasting notes).
Meanwhile, Chuck Taggart has done the seemingly impossible: he’s made the much-maligned haggis sound tasty! Check out his Looka! post on the Bobby Burns cocktail (complete with his haggis experience) and you’ll see what I mean. Chuck also suggests a few single malts and blends, including the awesomely peaty Laphroaig 10-year, a personal fave.
*Update 2/1: According to this report from NPR, haggis is still banned: “While a review of the ban on beef and lamb is under way, there’s no time frame for its completion.”
Beginning tonight, two of the top cocktail destinations in Los Angeles are joining the many bars and restaurants that are hosting fundraisers to benefit the ongoing Haiti earthquake relief efforts. In addition to The Doheny and The Edison events, be sure to check the links below for other venues, as well as a Mashable guide to online and text message donations.
No matter how you make your donation, please give what you can, now and in the weeks and months to come.
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Click to enlarge.
The Doheny – Haiti Needs Help Now!
- Tuesday, Jan. 19
- $15 suggested donation
- Cash bar
- Business casual attire requested
- Doors at 8:30pm
The members-only Doheny opens its doors tonight, with all proceeds going to support Haiti relief efforts. To go with your libations, free appetizers and dessert are being donated by Papa Cristo’s and BabyCakes. You’ll also have a chance to win dinner for four at The Gorbals.
The Doheny
714 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
thedoheny.com
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The Edison – Doctors Without Borders Benefit
Wednesday, Jan. 20 – Saturday, Jan. 23
- $10 suggested donation at the door (per person, each night)
Silent Auction – Friday, Jan. 22
~ 5pm-8pm
~ featuring:
- The Most Interesting Man in the World Dinner for Two
- Alice Cooper 1970’s Tour Souvenirs
- Tim Burton Autographed Artist Proof Books
- Dodgers Dugout Tickets
- Kings Tickets and Memorabilia
- Cold Case Set Visit and Lunch with Kathryn Morris
- Edison Whiskey Tasting for Six
- and more Sports Items and Celebrity Memorabilia
eBay Auction: Jan. 25 – Feb. 8 (details TBA)
In addition to its usual calendar of cocktail events (see below), the Edison is asking for donations at the door from Wednesday through Saturday. A special Silent Auction takes place on Friday, and an eBay Auction will open on Monday, Jan. 25. All proceeds benefit the Doctors Without Borders Haiti Relief Fund.
(Updated 1/20)
The Edison
108 W. 2nd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 613-0000
www.edisondowntown.com
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For more information on Haiti relief fundraisers throughout the city:
- Citysearch – How to Help Haiti
- The Daily Dish – Help for Haiti
- Gourmet Pigs – Upcoming Events + Help Haiti
For a guide to online and text message donations, be sure to check out Mashable’s Haiti Earthquake Relief: 9 Ways to Help Now.
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Image: the Edison
The Edison – 2010 New Deal
The Haiti fundraiser coincides with the Edison’s “2010 New Deal” promotion, which celebrates Franklin D. Roosevelt (who repealed Prohibition) and the 100th Anniversary of the Higgins Building (home of the Edison). The New Deal cocktail specials are Wednesday through Friday, from 5pm to 7pm, as follows:
- Wednesday – Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Higgins Building with The Centennial Cocktail ($1).
- Thursday – Each week, enjoy a different “Vintage” Cocktail at the “Vintage Price” of 35 cents.
- Friday – Featuring The Fireside, an Old Fashioned made with Woodford Reserve ($1).
- Note: limit one Featured Cocktail per person/per night.
When wine aficionados talk about California wine, it’s more than likely they’re discussing the world famous wineries that are well north of our fair city. Santa Monica’s Pourtal aims to change that way of thinking with Made in Malibu, a wine tasting series that explores Malibu’s burgeoning wine region, or American Viticultural Area (AVA). The goal for the month-long series is “to spotlight some of our favorite California wines, all of which are produced right in L.A.’s backyard,” says Pourtal owner Stephen Abronson.
The exclusive wine tasting tour will feature a flight of ten wines crafted solely from grapes grown in the Malibu AVA. Pourtal’s high-tech Enomatic machines will be busy dispensing tastes through the month of January. Each wine is priced per 1 oz. pour, and guests are welcome to sample at their own pace. Two additional Malibu wines will be available from Pourtal’s by-the-glass list.
Made in Malibu featured wines include:
- 2006 Hoyt Family Vineyards Chardonnay
- 2008 Republic of Malibu Pink Lady Rosé
- 2007 Cielo Malibu Rouge
- 2001 Semler Cabernet Sauvignon Library Release
- 2005 Semler Syrah
- 2005 Rosenthal Malibu Newton Canyon Merlot
- 2004 Rosenthal Surfrider Red
- 2007 Griffin Family Vineyard Malbec
- 2007 Malibu Vineyards “Vortex” Sangiovese
- 2008 Malibu Sanity Pinot Noir, Schetter Malibu Vineyard
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Made in Malibu debuts on Wednesday, January 6 with a launch party honoring the winemakers. Representatives from each of the featured wineries will discuss their wines as well as hand-pour an additional wine. Pourtal will provide hosted appetizers for guests. Admission to the launch party is free. The hand-poured tastings are free with the purchase of a $15 Pourtal tasting card, which may be used for pours from the Enomatic machines at any time.
Throughout the month, Pourtal will also host select Malibu wineries for a special series of hand-poured tasting events. Each winemaker will present several off-the-list wines to taste, as well as have a few bottles available for purchase. The tastings are free to guests with the purchase of a $15 Pourtal tasting card.
NOTE: Dates and times for the special tastings are subject to change. For the full schedule of tasting events, please visit Pourtal’s website.
Made in Malibu
Wine Tour and Tasting Series
Jan. 6-31, 2010
Available any time during regular business hours.
Launch Party: Wednesday, January 6th, from 7-10pm.
Pourtal
104 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 393-7693
www.pourtal.com
Update 1/19: Tonight, you can support the Haiti earthquake relief effort by drinking wine. From 7pm to closing, Pourtal will donate 25% off all tasting sales on Tuesday night to the Santa Monica chapter of the Red Cross specifically for the earthquake relief in Haiti.
The Balvenie has been called “the bourbon lover’s scotch,” a perfect description of the smooth, honeyed sweetness found in the Speyside distillery’s single malts. For the last several years, Balvenie has been one of the foremost practitioners of the wood-finished style, in which traditionally-aged Scotch is “finished” for an additional two years (or more) in casks previously used to age wine, or fortified wine such as port or sherry. The method results in whisky of considerable flavor and complexity. In years past, Malt Master David Stewart has crafted releases such as Sherry Oak (2007) and Rum Cask (2008) for The Balvenie 17 Year Old Limited Edition Range.
The latest in the series is the Madeira Cask 17 Year Old, which was released September 2009 in limited markets worldwide. For this release, mature Balvenie spirit has been finished in casks that previously held Madeira, a fortified Portuguese wine. Stewart notes that “the 17 year old whisky extracted some wonderful rich spice and distinct raisin flavors from the Madeira cask, which we hope malt enthusiasts will enjoy discovering in the glass.” In his Malt Advocate review, John Hansell rated the Madeira Cask 90 points, calling it “one of the most deftly-balanced whiskies I’ve tasted this year.”
After attending a recent launch event for the Madeira Cask, I was eager for a quieter, more focused experience with the excellent limited release. The booze fairy was apparently listening, for a sample arrived on my doorstep just before the holidays. Given its scarceness, I was particularly grateful to receive the review bottle. Suffice to say, subsequent drams have reinforced my enthusiasm for the Madeira Cask. I highly recommend seeking out The Balvenie Madeira Cask; your efforts will be rewarded.
Slàinte Mhath!
The Balvenie Madeira Cask
- 17 Year Old Single Malt Scotch
- 43% ABV
- Retail price: $120.00
TASTING NOTES
- Color – Amber, golden honey.
- Nose – Spicy, earthy oak notes with subtle hints of vanilla and honey. Soft fruit aromas, with apple infused with cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg.
- Taste – Initially, notes of sweet vanilla oak. Followed by spices and dried fruit notes of apricots, figs, and dates.
- Finish – Long and balanced between sweetness and dry oak. A bit of water softens the spicy kick and adds even more sweetness and vanilla.
For more information, please visit www.thebalvenie.com.
So far, 2010 is off to a great start: got up early this morning, made brunch with my brother, had a nice Chinese seafood dinner with the family, then topped off the evening with a Manhattan at home on a quiet Friday night.
Day One may be winding down, but a look at the calendar says there’s a lot going on in the next several months:
Mystery Bar
January 2010
Just before the end of the year, LA Weekly posted a tease about a mysterious new bar set to open at the end of this month. Not much in the way of detail, although there’s this intriguing bit: “the bar has the best entrance, hands down, of any heretofore seen. That includes, hot dog stands, phone booths, and hidden bookcases.” Can’t wait to hear more about this place!
Update Jan. 4: In its look at 2010 nightlife trends, the LA Times notes that the Houston twins (owners of Hollywood’s Piano Bar) are opening a Cuban rum bar in the former Blacklight (2nd St. and Vermont) on January 10. The bar will feature live salsa bands and “a sophisticated cocktail program, care of a superstar (and still off-the-record) bartender.”
Las Perlas
Q1 2010
Located across the street from Cole’s, the newest addition to Cedd Moses’ 213 portfolio aims to do for tequila and mezcal what Seven Grand did for whiskey. For pics of the colorful space, as well as a rundown on the list of mezcals and tequilas, check out Eater LA.
JW Marriott at L.A. Live | Image: Marriott
The Mixing Room, JW Marriott at L.A. Live
February 15, 2010
Back in November, Paul Rossi (Food and Beverage Director for the JW Marriott) said in a blogdowntown interview that the new hotel will feature a classic cocktail lounge called The Mixing Room. The 200-seat bar will also offer a small plates menu. Elsewhere in the property: Glance (a lobby lounge and wine bar) and ION, a poolside bar.
Glendon Kitchen & Cocktails
February 15, 2010
Also opening in mid-February is Glendon Kitchen & Cocktails, taking over the Moustache Cafe space in Westwood Village. According to LA Weekly, Glendon Kitchen “will cater to UCLA students and old-time Westsiders.” While I used to be the former, I am most definitely the latter. A welcome addition to a neighborhood that can use more cocktail destinations.
Radio Room at the Edison
February 23, 2010
After a couple of months off, the Radio Room returns to the Edison. The popular monthly event will feature guest mixologists and music by Portland’s Vagabond Opera.
Thirsty in LA…in New York!
May 2010
After far too long an absence, I’ll be visiting the Big Apple to celebrate World Cocktail Day and my Blogiversary (May 13), as well as attend the first annual Manhattan Cocktail Classic (May 14-18). If I’m not back by June, send a search party.
Bar Keeper
Bar Keeper
June 2010
In his December newsletter, Joe Keeper wrote that his wonderful Bar Keeper store is in the process of acquiring a liquor license for small batch spirits and liquors. If all goes well, he’ll have the license by early summer. In the meantime, you can stop by and show support by signing the petition.
Whew, that’s quite a first half of the year already! I’d better start doing liver stretches, especially with Burning Man only eight months away…
To help you ring in a new decade (or bury the old one, depending on your POV), some of the city’s top cocktail destinations are throwing New Year’s Eve parties with a dizzying variety of offerings. To make your search for the perfect NYE bash a little easier, I’ve compiled a list of events below. I’ve also included other NYE guides at the end of the post so you can really get confused. Wherever you go, make sure to call ahead for reservations and availability. And of course, please be safe and celebrate responsibly.
Cheers to a fantastic 2010!
NEW YEAR’S EVE 2009
Thursday, December 31, 2009
8 oz. Burger Bar
Govind Armstrong’s Melrose eatery closes its doors to throw a private New Year’s Eve Party, and you’re invited.
- Passed appetizers, dessert buffet, Champagne toast at midnight, and a DJ
- $35 pre-sale, $45 at the door
8 oz. Burger Bar
9pm-2am
7661 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
www.8ozburgerbar.com
Reservations: (323) 852-0008
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Comme Ça
“Les Années Folles”
Take the Wayback Machine to 1920’s Paris with Comme Ça’s prix fixe menu, featuring Amuse, Relevés, Supplement, Entrées, Pièces de Resistance, and Le Dessert courses.
- Five-course tasting menu: $95
- Wine pairings: $35 (standard) or $60 (premium)
- Champagne toast
- Period attire encouraged but not required
Comme Ça
Seatings begin at 5pm
8479 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
www.commecarestaurant.com
Reservations: (323) 782-1104 or maria@commecarestaurant.com
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Copa d’Oro
Just in time to ring in the new year, Copa d’Oro recently debuted four punches, including the appropriately-named 2010 (Sazerac Rye, Sweet Sherry, Elderflower Liqueur, fresh lemon juice, organic pear juice, Prosecco). No cover, two price points for table reservations.
Premium Tables
- $50/person (minimum four guests)
- Includes 1 bottle of Louis Roederer
Standard Tables
- $25/person (minimum four guests)
- Includes 1 bottle of Prosecco
Copa d’Oro
Featuring: DJ Kid Japer
8pm-2am
217 Broadway
Santa Monica, CA 90401
www.copadoro.com
Reservations: (310) 576-3030
NOTE: Copa d’Oro mailing list members who reserve a NYE table receive an additional complimentary bottle of Prosecco. RSVP: events@copadoro.com
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The Doheny
“Divine Lang Syne”
Cedd Moses’ private cocktail den opens its doors to non-members on NYE, with reserved table dinner packages and luxe amenities.
Reserved Table Seating:
Divine Deluxe – $525
- Bottle of Perrier-Jouët La Fleur Brut Champagne
- Dinner for two at Rivera
- One night stay at the O Hotel
Platinum Reserve – $450
- Bottle of Perrier-Jouët La Fleur Brut Champagne
- Dinner for two at Rivera
Gold Reserve – $350
- Bottle of Perrier-Jouët La Fleur Brut Champagne
- One night stay at the O Hotel
Silver Reserve – $200
- Bottle of Perrier-Jouët La Fleur Brut Champagne
Amenities:
- Tableside punch service
- Flights of luxury scotches and cognacs
- Complimentary artisinal cheese plate
- Handmade French chocolates
The Doheny
Featuring: DJ busbus
8pm-2am
714 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
thedoheny.com
Reservations: joel@thedoheny.com
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The Edison
“The Nautilist’s Ball”
The Edison’s second annual NYE bash features live music, performers, dining, and of course the Green Fairy.
- Individual tickets: $75
- Limited table reservations start at $300/table
- Entry includes Champagne Toast and Desserts at Midnight.
- All table reservations include a bottle of Champagne, midnight toast, desserts and entrance.
The Edison
Featuring: DJ Imagika, Gifted Performers, and Abney Park
Doors at 8pm
108 W. 2nd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
www.edisondowntown.com
Table reservations: (213) 613-0000
NOTE: Pre-sale tickets for NYE are sold out! Tickets will be available at the door and space will become available as guests exit the venue. Tickets purchased at the door are $75.
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The Foundry on Melrose
“Hello 2010″
The Foundry is offering two seatings for Eric Greenspan’s special tasting menus, as well as a cocktail party in the lounge with passed apps and live jazz.
First seating, 6-7:15pm – $95 ($135 with wine pairing)- Second seating, 9-10:15pm – $150 ($200 with wine pairing)
Lounge Cocktail Party – $35
- 10pm-2am
- All you can eat passed hors d’oeuvres
- Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
- Live jazz all night
The Foundry on Melrose
7465 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
www.thefoundryonmelrose.com
Reservations: (323) 651-0915
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The Hungry Cat
“la nochevieja”
Hollywood’s Gato Hambriento is saying adios to the Aughts with an Iberian-influenced menu and an open bar.
- Spanish-influenced, multi-course feast
- Open bar featuring Hungry Cat Cocktails, Spanish wines, draft/bottled beers
- $135/person
The Hungry Cat
1535 Vine St.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
www.thehungrycat.com
Reservations: (323) 462-2155
Rivera
If you’ve ever thought about tasting Julian Cox’s entire top notch cocktail menu, NYE is your chance to do so…in ninety minutes. Oh, and there’s John Sedlar’s wonderful food, too.
Bottomless Cocktail Party
- 11pm-12:30am
- Unlimited cocktails from the Rivera Specialty Cocktails menu, plus “special punches”
- $50 pre-sale for a seat at the bar or lounge
Dinner options
- 6:30-7:30pm: 6-course menu ($75/guest)
- 9-10pm: 7-course menu ($110/guest)
- Wine pairings: $50 & $75
- Luis Roederer Brut Premier: $18/glass & $75/bottle
Rivera
1050 S. Flower St, #102
Los Angeles, CA 90015
www.riverarestaurant.com
Reservations: (213) 749-1460
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Seven Grand
Get warmed up at downtown’s Whiskey Wonderland with $8 Manhattans til 9pm, then choose from three party options.
Seven Grand Private Reserve Seating
- Jackalope Drawing Room
- Choice of bottle: Perrier-Jouët La Fleur or Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
- $180 for two guests
Seven Grand Top Shelf Seating
- Choice of bottle: Perrier-Jouët Champagne or Sazerac Rye
- $140 for two guests
General Admittance
- $20 after 9:30pm
- Complimentary East Coast Toast at 9pm, L.A. Toast at Midnight
Seven Grand
7pm-2am
Featuring: Deacon Jones Blues Review, DJ Slick Rick
515 W. 7th St., 2nd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90014
www.sevengrand.la
Reservations: (213) 614-0737
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The Tar Pit
The new venture from Mark Peel and Audrey Saunders is hosting what promises to be a classy evening of food, cocktails, and music. There’s no cover, instead Tar Pit is requiring food and beverage minimums per person.
- First seating, 6:30pm – $75 (dining room) / $60 (bar) food & beverage minimum per person
- Second seating, 9:30pm – $95 (dining room) / $75 (bar) minimum per person
- Live entertainment starting at 9:30pm
- Champagne midnight toast, party hats, and “festive sundries”
The Tar Pit
609 N. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
www.tarpitbar.com
Reservations: (323) 965-1300
The Varnish
Downtown’s preeminent cocktail bar is offering a two-part New Year’s Eve.
Part One, 7-9:30pm – $9 Champagne Cocktails designed by the Varnish
-or-
Part Two, 10pm-close
- Open Bar with Varnish Cocktail List drinks
- Bottomless punch bowl with Grand Marnier Centenaire
- Champagne toast
- Limbo!
- Tables for parties of two, four, & six, or standing room at the bar
- $125/person
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Southern California USBG.
The Varnish
118 E. Sixth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014
www.thevarnishbar.com
Reservations: Eric at (213) 622-9999, or thevarnish@thevarnishbar.com
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New Year’s Eve Guides
- Citysearch
- e*star LA
- LAist Parts I, II, III
- LA Times
- Los Angeles Magazine
