“And one by one the nights between our separated cities are joined to the night that unites us.” – Pablo Neruda
No menu & farmers market cocktails as I revisit LA's Library Bar (see "Wandering Traveler")
It’s been quite a week: I’ve been in Kentucky, tasting over 50 spirits a day, judging ADI’s (American Distilling Institute) annual awards. Palate fatigue, yes, but also an incredible team of judges and a confirmation that artisanal, craft spirits are growing in this country by leaps and bounds – medals will be announced at ADI’s annual conference in Louisville this April.
Aspiring chef friends, there’s an unusual competition going on with one more week to submit recipes: the winner will develop innovative food products with Safeway‘s Culinary Kitchens team and have their recipe sold in Safeway stores nationwide. They are hosting a cook-off this Spring at my old stomping grounds, the California Culinary Academy, and only two other US locations. I know many of you create some killer recipes – enter on Safeway’s Facebook page.
Gitane's sexy, romantic space (see "Imbiber")
In this newsletter…
The Latest: Cocktail and food pairings can actually work (lower alcohol, elegant balance are key). Note Lower Haight’s new Maven.
Imbiber: Yet more food and cocktail pairings when revisiting sexy, romantic Gitane, with a new cocktail menu and bar manager.
Wandering Traveler: LA’s craft cocktail scene has grown by leaps and bounds the last couple years and my latest visit showed the most consistent quality I’ve seen there yet.
I’d love your feedback on any spots visited from my site. As your personal concierge who tells it to you like a good friend would, I also create personalized itineraries: trips, meals, explorations (under “Services“).
Let me guide you to the perfect spot,
Virginia
Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ThePerfectSpot
Recent entries in my Bay Guardian column:
Maven, Lower Haight’s new cocktail & food pairing destination
Ice Cream Bar’s 1930’s Soda Fountain Revival
Interview with Russell Davis, Ice Cream Bar’s Soda Fountain Menu Creator
**Unless otherwise noted, all photos by Virginia Miller**