Good Food
Raising the bar: a world of drinks in LA
“You know, Sinatra drank here.” This week you’ll hear about the past, present, and future of Los Angeles’ bar scene: from history buffs to the mavericks shaking up the bar industry by making it a more equitable and just place for all.
By Evan Kleiman • • 56m Listen“You know, Sinatra drank here.” This week you’ll hear about the past, present, and future of Los Angeles’ bar scene: from history buffs to the mavericks shaking up the bar industry by making it a more equitable and just place for all. Plus: a Koreatown cocktail bar with a tasting menu, and a visit from a vermouth maker.
In this episode
6 storiesLos Angeles Cocktails
LA’s bar scene is huge and diverse: from historic watering holes, to tiki bars, to trendy bars masquerading as speakeasies. Author Andrea Richards has gathered this history in a book called “Los Angeles Cocktails.”
Read the story12 minThe Walker Inn
As a bar and cocktails writer for the LAist and Eater, Caroline Pardilla is always on the hunt for interesting new watering holes: not only places with delicious drinks, but with great ambience, too.
Read the story8 minA liquid history of the Arts District
Simone recently opened in the Arts District after months of anticipation.
Read the story10 minWriting the manual for change
The hospitality industry is a natural landing spot for many of California’s 10 million foreign-born workers. Immigrants who speak little English can find work behind the scenes, where language isn’t a barrier to entry, such as washing dishes or barbacking. But advancing beyond those roles can be difficult. Aaron Polsky , bar manager at Harvard & Stone, spoke to Evan about his efforts to create bartending manuals in Spanish for immigrant workers.
Read the story9 min“Movers and Shakers”
Writer and bartender Hope Ewing is telling the stories of the women in the alcohol business who are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable industry.
Read the story9 minRethinking vermouth
Vermouth has long been associated with the “Mad Men” era of a three-martini lunch. However, a new generation of drinkers is discovering new ways of enjoying the wine, solidifying its place at the bar as a key component of many popular drinks.
Read the story9 min
