The hosts share hilarious anecdotes from a recent event, emphasizing the importance of hydration. They discuss innovative cocktails from Guadalajara, like the Negrone Tropezado with unique ingredients. The transformation of bartending in Las Vegas is explored, highlighting the rise of celebrity bartenders and authenticity issues in hotel bars. Challenges in the bar franchise industry are examined, especially those that merely license their brand without genuine support. The conversation wraps up with listener engagement, encouraging personal bar stories.
Visiting bars like El Gallo Altanero illustrates how a unique atmosphere and innovative cocktails can enhance the drinking experience.
The trend of hiring famous bartenders for cocktail menus poses risks to authenticity and mentorship, potentially diluting the guest experience.
Deep dives
The Casual Vibes of Guadalajara's Bars
One standout experience discussed was visiting El Gallo Altanero, a bar in Guadalajara renowned for its casual atmosphere despite being on the top 50 bars list. The open-air design contributed to a lively ambiance, reminiscent of local bars that encourage a more festive vibe. A notable cocktail from this visit was the Negrone Tropezado, which replaces gin with ricea, creating a unique take on the classic drink enhanced by the addition of pineapple. The blend of flavors provided a refreshing take, demonstrating how a simple change in ingredients can significantly alter a well-known cocktail.
Refreshing Discoveries in Tequila Country
Zach also shared his explorations in tequila country, where he encountered unique agave spirits and the Batanga, the official drink of Tequila. This cocktail is prepared by mixing salt, lime, tequila, and Mexican Coke, stirred with a knife used for cutting limes — a local tradition that adds an authentic touch. Visiting historic bars, like La Capilla, enriched the experience as it served as a gathering spot for master distillers in past decades. The opportunity to explore lesser-known tequila brands, such as El Tequileno's rosé tequila, which is aged in ex-Pinot Noir casks, highlighted the dynamic nature of agave spirits.
Exploring Vegas' Local Bar Scene
In Las Vegas, the hosts observed a contrast between the local bar scene and the more commercial establishments found on the Strip. They discovered hidden gems such as Jive Turkey and Liquid Diet, which showcase significant creativity and craftsmanship in their drinks. Locals often recommend skilled bartenders rather than specific bars, emphasizing the importance of the bartender's expertise in creating quality cocktails. This scene represents a shift in Vegas towards a more refined drinking culture, moving beyond the traditional casino-based drinking experience.
Critique of Celebrity Bartender Brands
A critical discussion arose about the trend of hotels hiring notable bartenders to create cocktail programs without their active involvement, raising questions about authenticity and mentorship. The hosts argued that while this practice may attract guests initially, it often neglects the actual bar staff who lack direct guidance from these well-known figures. This dynamic can ultimately lead to a diluted experience for patrons, as the drinks may not reflect the creativity that defines the successful bars those bartenders are known for. The conversation highlighted a growing concern about creating genuine connections between bartenders and their venues, rather than merely capitalizing on celebrity status.
Fresh off their travels, Adam, Joanna, and Zach discuss whether hiring a famous bartender to design your cocktail menu, but not actually tend bar, can actually drive business, especially if that bar doesn't share a name with their more famous establishment. Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review VinePair on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for listening, and be well.