Los Angeles - February 24, 2009

Gin and Bare It

The Varnish Bar Opens

The Varnish

Ingredients
Equal parts Eric Alperin, Sasha Petraske, and Cedd Moses (no substitutions)
Bucket of appreciation for the art of the American cocktail
Jigger of nostalgia for the Pacific Electric Railway heyday
Bushel of classic spirits and their newly refined counterparts, too
Splash of house-made syrup, soda, and/or freshly squeezed juices
Smidgeon of the best kind of OCD (e.g., quality ice cuts, deft mixing techniques, presentation particulars)
Dash of old-timey speakeasy allure
Garnish with a modern twist and side of antique piano

1. Combine all ingredients and pour into the back room at Cole’s French Dip.

2. Add friends (preferably those who can keep a good secret); close large oak door.

3. Chill.

Serves nine trolley-style benched booths, a few two-tops, and eight spots at the bar.

And you if you’re lucky.

The Varnish, at Cole’s French Dip, 118 East Sixth Street, between Los Angeles and Main Streets, Downtown (213-622-9999 or thevarnishbar.com).