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Los Angeles’s newest Cocktail Bar from Jared Meisler ‘The Moon Room’ Opens on Melrose

Los Angeles’s newest Cocktail Bar from Jared Meisler ‘The Moon Room’ Opens on Melrose

Renowned Los Angeles bar proprietor Jared Meisler (The Roger Room, Bar Lubitsch, The Friend, The Little Friend, The Brig and Gin Rummy), in collaboration with multi-talented textile and graphic designer Tria Jensen Meisler, announces the grand opening of their latest venture, THE MOON ROOM, in the Melrose District on Friday, March 15, 2024.

Multi-award-winning mixologist Annemarie Sagoi will lead the cocktail program, ensuring an unforgettable drinking experience.

THE MOON ROOM, located at 7174 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, occupies a prominent spot at the southeast corner of Melrose and North Formosa Avenues, just a stone’s throw from La Brea Avenue.

Surrounded by the bustling energy of the city’s chic boutiques and culinary hotspots, it stands out as a beacon of allure in the heart of the Melrose District, beckoning with its inviting atmosphere and promises of unforgettable experiences.

“I have always loved that stretch of Melrose Ave.

It’s iconic and feels like a geographic center of Los Angeles,”

Meisler

“The idea was to create a chic and sophisticated room that is not pretentious and feels fun. A place to gather and celebrate. It’s a hub for people all over LA that come to life when the sun goes down.”

Guests are enveloped in a chic and sophisticated ambiance within THE MOON ROOM’s walls. Velvety black lacquer banquettes complement meticulously carved wood panels. White marble tables and contemporary café chairs with brass accents offer a striking juxtaposition against the sultry darkness.

The floor boasts a mesmerizing herringbone pattern, leading the eye to walls adorned with a curated collection of provocative art that intermingles with vintage abstracts, pop art, black and white nudes, and other avant-garde pieces from modern and contemporary artists. This eclectic mix creates an atmosphere of playful sensuality.

An enormous, mirrored ball gently gyrates at the heart of the space, casting a soft glow reminiscent of the moon’s seductive luminosity.

The fusion of chic 1970s and 1980s Paris and New York styles with the contemporary essence of Los Angeles creates a luxurious, sophisticated, and sensual environment that invites guests to immerse themselves in an experience beyond the ordinary.

Step out onto the narrow balcony and indulge in a bird’s-eye view of the bustling late-night activity along Melrose Avenue. Sip on your favorite cocktail, puff on your favorite puffable, and relish the cool breeze of the Los Angeles evening. It is the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the city’s vibrant energy below.

Music is a defining element at THE MOON ROOM, where the baby grand piano exudes a seductive appeal, setting the stage for captivating live performances. As the evening unfolds, the ambiance shifts to pulsating funky disco grooves.

THE MOON ROOM’s beverage Director Annemarie Sagoi has crafted an exotic menu of inventive and playful craft cocktails, each exuding a steamy and seductive vibe.

Drink prices range from $12-$18 and include Andromeda with Reposado Tequila, Mint, Cilantro, Jalapeno, Pineapple, Chartreuse & Habanero; Phoenix with Vodka, Sticky Rice Syrup, Longan, Ginger, Lychee and Lime; Pavo with Byrrh Quinquina, Sweet Vermouth, Fresh Berries, Lemon & Apricot; Cassiopeia Spritz with Kumquat, Jasmine, Cocchi Rosa, Lemon & Pet Nat; Orion with Reposado Tequila, Mezcal, Spiced Cocoa, Camel Milk, Coconut, Chartreuse & Black Salt; Lynx Martini with Gin, Bianco & Dry Vermouth, Za’atar Oil Wash, Pistachio & Orange Blossom; Hercules with Irish Whiskey, Coffee Liqueur, Cold Brew, Chai Spices, Honey & Averna Foam; Selene with Zubrowka Vodka, St Germain, Cinnamon, Apple, Angostura & Lemon; Draco with Dark Rum, Rhum Agricole, Creole Shrubb, Cocchi Di Torino & Manzanilla Sherry; and Pegasus with Bourbon, Date, Amaro & Black Walnut Bitters.

There are several NO BOOZE options including Grus with Lyre Aperitivo, Zero Proof Sparkling Rosé, Mineral Water & Lemon; Fornax with Mint, Cilantro, Jalapeno, Lime, Pineapple, Habanero and Mineral Water and CBD Tart Cherry Phosphate.

In addition to the assorted list of Wines by the Glass, Bottled Beers, Dry Ciders and a High Life + Well Bourbon orTequila Shot, there are snacks including Assorted Olives; Marcona Almonds; Pecorino Romano; Wasabi Peas; Salami with Stone Ground Mustard; Spicy Pepitas and Kettle Chips.

LA Financial Guru Michael Dodo is Living His American Dream with The Dodo Group

LA Financial Guru Michael Dodo is Living His American Dream

Los Angeles based financier Michael Dodo is fast becoming one of the most sought-after venture capitalists for a range of businesses in need of private equity investment and acute corporate leadership. The Founder and CEO of both The Dodo Group, and beauty brand conglomerate Luxury Brands LLC., he successfully identifies, restructures, nurtures, and drives formerly struggling businesses into financially stable, sustainable, and successful global companies. 

Born and raised in Johannesburg South Africa, Michael Dodo earned his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of South Africa before launching his career in finance at the Mercantile National Bank of South Africa.  With his eye sharply affixed on immigrating to America, and with a mere $300 in his pocket, he arrived in Los Angeles and was soon recruited by Tag-It Pacific, a garment hang tag and label production company, first as their Controller and then quickly promoted to VP of Finance and Operations. He was not only instrumental in taking the company public, but also ran both their Hong Kong and Mexican divisions before parting ways in 2001.

Financial Guru Michael Dodo

Financial Guru Michael Dodo / photography by David Christopher Lee

He, and a business partner, then purchased Triple L Distribution, a company which soon became the second largest redistributor of dry grocery and equipment supplies to the food service industry in the West. Under Michael’s direction, TLD successfully maintained a fleet of 70 tractor trailers and 5 fully stocked warehouse locations, and the company grew from $16 million to $128 million in annual revenue.  He was then approached to step in as CEO of FHI Heat, a prominent professional grade hair tool company, to restructure and cultivate the brand. Shortly thereafter, he purchased West Central Produce, later known as West Central Foodservice, growing the company into one of the largest premium wholesale food, beverage, and restaurant supply distributors on the West Coast, with sales topping $300M per year.

In 2017, he launched his first of two conglomerates – Luxury Brands LLC., positioned as a parent company for beauty, luxury, and lifestyle consumer brands.  FHI Heat, and sibling haircare brands STYLUS, NEO BOND, Hair Veil and Daily Beauty, were strategically placed under the Luxury Brands LLC. corporate umbrella., and last spring, Michael’s latest acquisition Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics and Skincare was purchased out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy and added to his growing beauty brand portfolio. 

Financial Guru Michael Dodo

Financial Guru Michael Dodo / photography by David Christopher Lee

Michael’s namesake conglomerate – The Dodo Group, has focus in F&B, a space which Michael has significant career experience.  Lodi Canning Company, a 100-year-old plus, farm-to-table vegetable canning company, and Wateria, a 25-year-old, 15-step Drinking Water Purification System both sit under DG and are currently scaling at a tremendous rate.

To say that Michael Dodo has optimized the “American Dream” is an understatement, and we look forward to acutely following his success for many years to come.

 

 

Magic, Music, Must-Taste Drinks: Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 at iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel with Tracie May

Cocktail magic, competition, celebration: Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 at iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel.

MC Petey Majik hosted the 2-day Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 June 14-15 celebrating with flavor, masterclasses, magic, competition.  Tracie May captured it all.

Photos courtesy of Nick Middleton @glam.foodbev 

Tracie May at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

Tracie May at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

A  spectacular 2-day summer celebration, welcomed over 1000 cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike to the iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel.

The vibrant cocktail carnival featured a dazzling array of over 130 cocktails from 36 premium global spirits, liqueurs and mixer brands. 

Fernet Branca poured at event

Fernet Branca poured at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

A gathering of Vietnam’s top mixologists, innovative concoctions were expertly mixed by a combination of the country’s most respected bartenders and up-and-coming talents. 

Cocktail Carnival part of Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

At the heart of the festival was a showcase of Vietnam’s craftsmanship and creativity, where seasoned mixologists flexed their skills to craft tantalizing libations. 

The Botanist at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

The Botanist at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

From classic cocktails with a Vietnamese twist to avant-garde creations pushing the boundaries of flavor, each drink was a testament to the artistry and innovation within Vietnam’s ever-growing cocktail scene.

For guests inspired to continue the cocktail adventure at home, Mercantile Vietnam provided the option for attendees to purchase a bottle of their favorite brand from the event and have it shipped directly to their door.  

Entertainment Extravaganza

The event’s charismatic MC Petey Majik led the carnival atmosphere and captivated the audience with a spellbinding magic show accompanied by igniting cocktail flaring performances from the talented Chương and Phước.  

Tracie May with Clase Azul at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

Tracie May with Clase Azul at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024

On Friday, the stage was taken over with a charismatic live performance from Vietnam’s premier DJ and saxophone duo Omar and Pierre. The party continued Saturday with the contagious energy of DJ PIA.

Interactive Masterclasses and Exclusive Tasting Room

For spirits connoisseurs the festival also offered a wealth of knowledge with 4 optional interactive masterclasses hosted per day, where industry experts from Lady Triệu, Bruichladdich, Jose Cuervo, Highland Park and Lý Gia Viên shared their craft and insights with eager participants. 

Tracie May with Michelin Star Chef:Owner of Ănăn Saigon Peter Cường Franklin

Tracie May with Michelin Star Chef:Owner of Ănăn Saigon Peter Cường Franklin

Luxury spirits aficionados could enhance their experience further and purchase tickets to enter the event’s Exclusive Room, featuring personalized tastings from 8 of the world’s super and ultra-premium brands, with a combined retail price of over 600 Million VND.

Competitive Spirit

One of the highlights of the festival was the highly anticipated Best Cocktail, Best Bartender and Best Brand Competitions with guests encouraged to vote for their favorites.

Bartenders from across the country battled it out for top honors.

With precision, flair, and a dash of showmanship, contestants dazzled spectators with their signature creations, showcasing the ingenuity and talent within Vietnam’s cocktail community.

Shanky’s Whip at Vietnam Cocktail 2024

Shanky’s Whip at Vietnam Cocktail 2024

On Saturday 15th June, the 2024 winners were announced: Mai Thanh Phong’s “Banh Mi Saigon” cocktail, made with Matusalem Rum, won Best Cocktail.

Nguyen Tuan Cuong, who works at Yugen Bar and is sponsored by Shanky’s Whip, was named Best Bartender. Also, Jägermeister was awarded Best Brand of the event.

Cultural Fusion

Beyond the cocktails themselves, the festival served as a social celebration of cultural fusion, from modern Vietnamese influences to global trends, the event highlighted the diverse tapestry of brands and the pioneering people shaping the country’s dynamic cocktail scene.

Vietnam’s Cocktail Revolution

As the final glasses were raised and the last drops were savored, the Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 left an indelible mark on the hearts and palates of all those who attended. With its vibrant energy, innovative spirit, and unwavering passion for mixology, the festival has undoubtedly cemented its place as a must-attend event on the global cocktail calendar, promising even more excitement and inspiration in the years to come.

Cheers to the next chapter of Vietnam’s cultural cocktail revolution! 

Awards were announced on Saturday, June 15th, at 8 PM

Best Cocktail of the Event 2024

  • Cocktail Name: Bánh Mì Sài Gòn
  • Bartender Name: Mai Thanh Phong
  • Brand Name: Matusalem Rum
  • Bar Name: Madam Kew Bar

Best Bartender of the Event 2024

  • Bartender’s Name: Nguyen Tuan Cuong
  • Brand Name: Shanky’s Whip
  • Bar Name: Yugen Bar

Best Brand of the Event 2024

  • Brand Name: Jägermeister

Participating Brands:

  • Large Exhibitors: Lady Triệu, Jose Cuervo, Cointreau
  • Medium Exhibitors: Bushmills, Naked Malt, Kaibutsu, 1800, Campari, RCR Crystalleria Italiana.
  • Small Exhibitors: Kurayoshi Matsui, Duncan taylor, Lark Distillery, Hangar 1 Vodka, Maestro Dobel, Bruichladdich Distillery Company, Passoa, The Botanist, No3 London Dry Gin, Dictador The Arthouse Spirit Brand, Colombian Gin, Stranger & Sons Gin, Fernet Branca, Espolon Tequila, Michter’s, Shanky’s Whip, Gran Centenario Tequila, Jägermeister, The Kyoto, Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Matusalem, Brookies Byron Gin, Ly Gia Vien, Torani, Fentimans, Mercantile.

Participating Bars (in collaboration with brands):

  • Kraken x The Dot Bar
  • Sexton x Dram Bar
  • Wild Turkey x Lost Birds Bar
  • Glenrothes x Firkin Bar

Master Classes: Lady Trieu, Bruichladich, Jose Cuervo, Ly Gia Vien, Highland Park

Photos courtesy of Nick Middleton @glam.foodbev 

Art Beyond the Glass (ABTG) returns for its 12th event on Sunday, June 30th, 2024 – The Original Bartender Art Festival

Art Beyond the Glass XII – The Original Bartender Art Festival Celebrates Cocktails, Art, Community & Inclusivity for All

Art Beyond the Glass (ABTG) returns for its 12th event on Sunday, June 30th, 2024, at the legendary Catch One nightclub!

More than 100 of LA’s top bartenders will make cocktails and showcase their artistic talents, with proceeds donated to Self Help Graphics & Art.

Since its inception, ABTG has raised more than $250,000 for arts-based nonprofits in LA and across the country.

Photo Credits: Eugene Lee & Abigail Smith

Co-founded by Daniel Djang and Zahra Bates, ABTG is the original celebration of bartender artistry and widely regarded as one of the country’s premier cocktail culture festivals.

From painting to photography, live music, DJs and more, every ABTG showcases the creative pursuits of bartenders when they are not behind the bar.

“It’s hard to believe that what began as a casual conversation at Sunny Spot

in November 2011 has grown into this extraordinary event,”

Co-founder Daniel Djang

“The cocktail creativity and artistic talent of the bar community in LA and beyond never ceases to amaze me. We are so grateful for the generosity of our sponsoring brands and the numerous venues that have welcomed us into their spaces. Can’t wait to reunite with the extended ABTG family at ABTG XII!”

Photo Credits: Eugene Lee & Abigail Smith

Art Beyond the Glass is taking place for the third consecutive year at Catch One, which is graciously being donated to ABTG XII for this exclusive event.

Located on Pico Boulevard in the heart of Los Angeles, this landmark nightclub was opened by Jewel Thais-Williams in 1973 as Jewel’s Catch One, a pioneering LGBTQ+ disco. Featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting, the massive venue spans two floors and multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. 

For the 12th annual Los Angeles event, Art Beyond the Glass is honored to be raising funds for Self Help Graphics & Art (SHG), which fosters the creation and advancement of new artworks by Chicana/o and Latinx artists through experimental and innovative printmaking techniques and other visual art forms.

Since 1973, SHG has been at the intersection of arts and social justice, providing a home that fosters the creativity and development of local artists. SHG establishes international collaborations and partnerships nationwide and creates worldwide cultural exchanges. 

ABTG is once again partnering with their fiscal partner Another Round Another Rally, a nonprofit financial resource for the hospitality industry.

ARAR co-founder Travis Nass: “It is an honor to be a part of one of the most creative, innovative industry events across the country. We have always loved ABTG, and it is such a pleasure to be able to work with them again this year. We could not be prouder to work with this wonderful organization.”

ABTG will feature dozens of Bartenders from LA’s top bars and restaurants, including All Day Baby, Apotheke, Bar Flores, Bar Next Door,Death & Co, Fanny’s, General Lee’s, Level 8, Lustig, The Mermaid, Mother Tongue, Nativo, Roger Room, Scum & Villainy, The Varnish, along with pop-up bars and a special Legacy Team.

“Art Beyond the Glass has become so important to the bar community,”

Clare Ward

ABTG Head of Production

Bartenders are makers. We make drinks. We make art. We make community. This is the perfect event to celebrate everything we do.”

Photo Credits: Eugene Lee & Abigail Smith

Guests will also be able to buy bartender art, shop handmade items by bartenders, and bid on silent auction items.

Photo Credits: Eugene Lee & Abigail Smith

ABTG XII is being made possible by its generous sponsors: Amaras, Bacardi, Balcones, Barr Hill, Beam Suntory, Bushmills, Calisco, Deutsch Family, Dirty Sue, Filthy Food, Flor de Caña, Fords, Hedonistas, High West, Jack Daniel’s, Juliette, Kin, Liquid Alchemist, Mal Bien, Mommenpop, Montenegro, Pinhook, Proper 12, Real Del Valle, Ritual, St Benevolence, St George, Seedlip, Silvergrin, Spiribam, Tito’s, Tromba, True Believers, Underberg, West Coast Ice, and Zomoz.

Ticket information: ABTG XII will take place from 3pm to 7pm on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Catch One.

General Admission tickets are on sale at the Catch One website for $65 per person until 3pm on June 30.

If still available, tickets will be sold at the door for $75 per person.Tickets to this event are only available for guests 21+ and over.

The all-inclusive ticket includes entry, cocktail samples, art gallery, entertainment and bar bites. In addition, guests will be able to purchase bartender artwork, buy raffle tickets and bid on silent auction items such as artwork, photography, rare spirits and more. All proceeds fromABTG XII will be donated to Self Help Graphics & Art.

# # #

About Art Beyond the Glass:

Art Beyond the Glass was founded in 2011 by Daniel Djang and Zahra Bates as a special event for bartenders to showcase their artistic talents when they’re not behind the bar. From cocktails to paintings, photography, live music, DJs, spoken word and more, ABTG is a celebration of bartender artistry inside and beyond the glass. Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a local arts-based nonprofit – to date, ABTG has donated more than $250,000 to these vital community organizations.

FOLLOW ART BEYOND THE GLASS:

Instagram: @abtgla Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtBeyondTheGlass

 

Catch One

4067 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90019

https://catch.one/#/events

 

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