My bottle review column (last month’s edition here) is about what is unique, standout, new and/or trending in spirits with my review ratings on a 1-5 rating scale. My 10 bottle reviews of the month: ARTICLE: https://distilling.com/distillermagazine/new-release-roundup-june-2025/ Reviewed this issue:— Brooklyn Kura Catskills Junmai Daiginjo Sake (Catskills, NY)— The Pathfinder Spritz (Nationwide, USA)— Creative Spirits Gin (Scottsdale, AZ)— Andia Ice… Read more →
Large portions. Midwest comfort food with California freshness. A badass playlist from a co-owner who doubles as DJ. A cozy, packed neighborhood spot that has drawn crowds since it opened. This is husband-wife Caroline and Parker Brown’s new Side A in the beloved (for 27 years!) Universal Café space in San Francisco’s Mission district. And it is special: Read more →
The edible, sensual and spiritual pleasures of Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula (seven places to eat and stay + cultural highlights)… Read more →
Reviewed this issue:
— Oregon Arak Amporae Selection
— Kelsey Blue and Gold Gin
— El Mexicano Blanco Tequila
— Hakata 12 Year Whisky Sherry Cask
— Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute Sakekasu Shochu
… and more Read more →
These three newer and one longtime restaurant confirm a French renaissance is underway… Read more →
The edible, sensual and spiritual pleasures of Calgary (2 upscale + 5 mid-range to casual restaurants, 6 cocktail bars, hotel, bakery, market and more)… Read more →
Reviewed this issue:
— Stade’s Rum Beach Vat No 1
— Drumshanbo Gunpowder Brazilian Pineapple Irish Gin
— Yobo Spirits KTOWN Soju Grape+Ginger
— Common Ground Gin
— Ten To One Rum Reserve Cask Collection Trinidad
— The Lost Explorer Reserva Del Maestro Madre Cuishe Mezcal
… and more Read more →
Reviewed in this article:
— Modern Lebanese and Levantine Pop-up at Buddy: Ilna
— New Neighborhood Spot Ideal for Groups & Families: Fifty Vara
— Cocktails & Bites with Seafaring Touch: Bar Maritime
— Persian Mexican Lounge: Movida
— Japanese Hot Pot Lunch Go-To: Potto
— SF Chron’s #3 Keeps On Wow-ing: Rich Table
— Two Top Female Chefs Keep This 32-Year-Old Shining: Boulevard
— Killing It With Bold Veggie Dishes: The Progress
— The Farm-to-Table Legend Since 1971: Chez Panisse Read more →
Traditionally known for its street food, Los Angeles is now redefining fine dining through visionary chefs and sommeliers who push the boundaries of culinary innovation with sustainable, creative food and wine pairings, writes Virginia Miller: Read more →
From Spanish and Cal-French newcomers to a foodie, cocktail and coffee geek’s hotel… where to eat, drink and stay in San Mateo County now… Read more →