Seasonal Winter Flavors: Five New Winter Cocktails by Ignacio Murillo at A.O.C. on 3rd Street & in Brentwood
Market-Fresh Seasonal Cocktails Crafted by Head Barman Ignacio Murillo Now Available at Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s A.O.C. Restaurants
A.O.C. debuts a new cocktail menu crafted by Ignacio Murillo
Suzanne Goin, Caroline Styne and head barman Ignacio Murillo, A.O.C. Third Street and Brentwood, California locations.
A.O.C. debuts a new cocktail menu crafted by Ignacio Murillo to welcome the changing winter produce and chillier temperatures.
In addition to the full bar of premium and classic cocktails, the specialty drinks at both 3rd Street and Brentwood locations include:
Satsuma with bourbon, tangerine juice, lemon, orange-saffron syrup & dried orange;
Death to the Espresso Martini with dark rum, silver rum, espresso, spiced coffee syrup & star anise;
Azteca with tequila, lime, apple juice, tamarind syrup & dried apple;
The Nagami with gin, lemon, kumquat liqueur, oro blanco grapefruit, fresh kumquat & rosemary;
The signature Fire & Smoke with mezcal, lime, blood orange, simple syrup, árbol chile, chili salt & fresh lime.
From his early days as a busser at the OG A.O.C. at 3rd & Crescent Heights, Ignacio Murillo always went the extra mile and immersed himself in the A.O.C. ways.
AOC’s Ignacio Murillo photo credit Suzanne Lanza
He came to every wine and cheese tasting, dedicated to being the best he could be, and made himself a key member of the A.O.C. family. Eventually, he moved to the bartender position, where he honed his cocktail-making skills, developing an incredible palate and a talent for layering flavors and textures in a magical way.
Murillo is now taking center stage, running A.O.C.’s bar program featuring seasonally motivated cocktails created to pair with Chef Suzanne Goin’s market menu offerings.
Cocktails are priced at $18-19 and are available now and continue through the winter season.
A.O.C. WINTER COCKTAILS 2023
Satsuma; photo credit Suzanne Lanza
Satsuma
bourbon, tangerine juice, lemon, orange-saffron syrup, orange
The Satsuma tangerine is a Japanese varietal popular amongst California growers. There are multiple varieties of tangerines at the Farmers’ Market, and I wanted to combine them with bourbon for a winter cocktail. To make this drink, I created an orange and saffron syrup to mix with the Satsuma tangerine juice to make an original and surprising cocktail that remains both juicy and spirit-forward.
Death to the Espresso Martini ; photo credit Suzanne Lanza
Death to the espresso martini
dark rum, silver rum, espresso, spiced coffee syrup, star anise
Espresso martinis are all the rage in Los Angeles and pretty much everywhere.
To take it to the next level, or at the very least, put my spin on it, I blended Caribbean dark and white rums and added a spiced coffee syrup made from condensed espresso along with a few secret ingredients.
The result is a cocktail that is rich, smooth, and eye-opening.
Azteca; photo credit Suzanne Lanza
Azteca
tequila, lime, apple juice, tamarind syrup, candied apple
The famous Aztec tribe is indigenous to Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila.Since apples are at their best in winter, I love incorporating them into a seasonal tequila cocktail. This year I combined the crispness of apples with tequila and added tamarind for its bright and sour notes. It lives up to the strength of its namesake.
The Nagami; photo credit Suzanne Lanza
The nagami
gin, lemon, kumquat liqueur, oro blanco grapefruit, fresh kumquat, rosemary
My neighbor has a small tree that is packed with kumquats. He shares them with his neighbors and makes delicious agua frescas with the fruit. He explained that these are Nagami kumquats, the most popular variety in the United States. So I used them to make a kumquat liqueur, added fresh-squeezed Oro Blanco grapefruit juice, and mixed them with gin to play off of the botanical notes in the gin.
This drink makes a citrusy and tart winter cocktail.
The signature Fire & Smoke; photo credit Suzanne Lanza
fire & smoke
mezcal, lime, blood orange, simple syrup, árbol chile, chili salt, fresh lime
Fire & Smoke has long been A.O.C.’s most popular seasonal cocktail. Blood orange, with its vibrant hue, is mixed with mezcal and tequila. The addition of our fiery house-made arbol Chile bitters makes this cocktail a long-time crowd-pleaser.
Serving now and continuing through the winter season; available for lunch, brunch & dinner per operating hours
A.O.C. 3rd Street
Dinner
Sunday – Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Pick up & delivery
5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. nightly
Saturday – Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
A.O.C. in Brentwood Lunch
Wednesday – Friday 11:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Dinner
Sunday – Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Pick up & delivery
5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. nightly
WHERE:
A.O.C. 3rd Street
8700 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048 – 310.859.9859
A.O.C. in Brentwood
11648 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049 – 310.806.6464
ABOUT THE LUCQUES GROUP:
With the opening of Lucques, their flagship restaurant, in 1998, James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef/Author Suzanne Goin and award-winning Restaurateur Caroline Styne planted the seeds for The Lucques Group, a Los Angeles hospitality company that comprises two fine dining restaurants – A.O.C. in both Los Angeles and Brentwood.
Along with these culinary enterprises, the company also owns the Larder Baking Company and oversees Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine, which curates all the food and beverage outlets at L.A.’s iconic music venue. The duo also operates two new restaurants – Caldo Verde and Cara Cara – at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel.
The Lucques Group is dedicated to seasonally influenced cooking and focuses on sourcing local, organic produce from which Goin creates soulful dishes that are bold in flavor, vibrant, layered and complex.
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LA Loves “Taste of a Kiss” with World’s #1 limoncello Pallini
“Taste of a Kiss” World’s #1 limoncello Pallini Celebrates 150 Years
Pallini Limoncello, the world’s #1 limoncello, proudly announces the launch of its new global campaign, “Taste of a Kiss.” Timed to coincide with the brand’s 150th anniversary, this sensory-led campaign invites consumers to rediscover the magic of limoncello – crafted with passion, kissed by the Amalfi sun, created for both timeless enjoyment and modern mixology.
The campaign’s creative centerpiece, “What Does a Kiss Taste Like,” will run throughout 2025 and will be brought to life through digital storytelling, influencer collaborations, and curated lifestyle content that celebrates Italian passion and flavor.
Pallini, founded in 1875, remains a proudly family-owned company and is now led by CEO Micaela Pallini, a fifth-generation member of the founding family. With more than 15 years at the company, she previously served as Director and Head of Production. Micaela, who holds a Doctoral Degree in Chemistry, is the first woman to lead the company and is honored to guide Pallini through this historic milestone.
“This campaign is a love letter to our Italian roots,”
Micaela Pallini
“It reflects everything Pallini stands for – joy, beauty, togetherness, and timeless taste. Sharing our 150th anniversary as the world’s leading limoncello is both humbling and exhilarating.” The campaign was developed by Luther DSGN, a rising Rome-based agency known for its creative expertise in lifestyle branding, visual storytelling, and experiential design.
At the heart of the campaign is the Pallini Spritz—now among the top three spritz-style cocktails served in the U.S. Elegant, light, and refreshingly simple (3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Pallini, 1 part water, served over ice in a large wine glass), the cocktail is quickly becoming a seasonal favorite across bars, rooftops, and at-home occasions. Pallini is supporting this momentum with retail cross-merchandising initiatives, encouraging consumers to bring the spritz ritual home.
Pallini Limoncello is distributed across the U.S. by Lucas Bols, the Dutch spirits company known for nurturing heritage cocktail brands. “Pallini is a rare brand that blends craftsmanship, legacy, and modern appeal,” said Brett Dunne, Managing Director, USA and Canada, The Lucas Bols Company. “We’re excited to help expand its reach across the U.S., bringing the spirit of the Amalfi Coast to American consumers and bartenders.”
Pallini Limoncello is available nationwide in fine wine and spirits retailers, as well as leading bars and restaurants across the U.S.
Sports beverage LA needs, but with a kick: Vodkade the Ultimate Canned Vodka Cocktail
Tastes like a sports beverage , but with a kick: Vodkade the Ultimate Canned Vodka Cocktail
There’s a new contender in the adult beverage game, and it’s already claiming victory. Meet Vodkade, the first-of-its-kind, hand-crafted, canned vodka cocktail made for those who don’t just play — they play to win at fun.
Born from the idea of creating a cocktail that tastes like a sports beverage — but with a kick — it’s the ultimate fusion of refreshment and bold flavor. Made with a proprietary recipe using crisp, high-quality vodka and natural fruit flavors, delivering a smooth, invigorating taste experience that keeps your competitive spirit sharp and your social game even sharper.
Popularity of Cocktail in a Can
Canned cocktails have surged in popularity due to their convenience, quality, and evolving consumer preferences.
As more people seek premium, bar-quality drinks without the hassle of mixing, canned cocktails offer a ready-to-drink solution that’s portable, consistent, and often crafted with real spirits and natural ingredients. Their sleek packaging suits outdoor events, beach days, and casual gatherings—no bartending skills needed.
Additionally, the rise of health-conscious drinking has led to options with lower sugar, fewer calories, and clean labels. With innovative flavors and better branding, canned cocktails meet the modern demand for ease, taste, and lifestyle alignment—all in a pop-top can.
Whether you’re rallying on the court, soaking up the sun, or locked in a heated game night, this canned cocktail is here to match your energy.
Vodkade is available in four fan-favorite flavors:Fruit Punch, Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Berry Cherry
Available in four fan-favorite flavors (Fruit Punch, Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Berry Cherry), each sip brings a cool wave of nostalgia with a grown-up twist. Sold in a convenient four-pack and the Victory Pack, an eight-pack variety featuring two cans of each flavor.
Vodka in a can?
Vodka is ideal for canned cocktails because of its clean, neutral flavor, which makes it incredibly versatile and mixable.
It acts as a blank canvas, allowing other ingredients—like fruit juices, herbs, or sparkling mixers—to shine without clashing. This neutrality also ensures a smooth, consistent taste across a wide range of flavor profiles, from citrusy spritzes to bold berry blends.
Vodka’s light body and high mixability appeal to a broad audience, making it a go-to base for refreshing, easy-to-enjoy drinks. Plus, it’s shelf-stable and blends well with carbonated elements, making it perfect for the convenience and portability of a can.
Now available at liquor stores and major retailers across the Midwest in Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa, with plans to expand into other United States markets in summer 2025.
Currently distributed across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa by distribution partners including Grey Eagle Distributors, Krey Distributing Company, H.W. Herrell Distributing Company, Lohr Distributing Company, Donnewald Distributing Company, Doll Distributing, Kabrick Distributing, and Fahr Distributing.
Learn more at www.vodkade.com or on socials at @Vodkade_cocktails on Instagram and @Vodkade on Facebook.
About Vodkade
Vodkade is a canned cocktail beverage made with a proprietary blend of vodka and natural fruit flavors.
Designed for those who live to play and play to win, Vodkade combines the bold refreshment of a sports drink with a kick.
Vodkade is distributed across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa by distribution partners including Grey Eagle Distributors, Krey Distributing Company, H.W. Herrell Distributing Company, Lohr Distributing Company, Donnewald Distributing Company, Doll Distributing, Kabrick Distributing, and Fahr Distributing.
It’s crafted for champions of good times everywhere. More information can be found at www.vodkade.com.
Vodkade encourages fun seekers to drink responsibly.
City of Angels Food Wine: A World-Class Culinary Celebration at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles Featuring 36 All-Star Chefs, Coming July 2025
City of Angels Food Wine: A World-Class Culinary Celebration at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles Featuring 36 All-Star Chefs, Coming July 2025
Southern California is poised for a landmark moment as Event Founder Shelby Russell and Culinary Host & Partner Neal Fraser proudly present L.A.’s newest world-class culinary festival, the inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine featuring an exceptional lineup of 36 Best Chefs taking place at the historic Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles!
Franklin Becker, Photo Credit: Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
Opening Night on Friday, July 25, 2025
Grand Tasting on Saturday, July 26, 2025
Set in Downtown L.A., home to some of the country’s most innovative dining experiences, a spectacular two-night strolling festival with Opening Night on Friday, July 25, 2025, and the Grand Tasting on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Each evening will bring together the industry’s top tastemakers and 1,000 culinary and beverage connoisseurs to celebrate an all-star lineup of 18 Top Chefs and restaurants, spectacular wineries, premier spirits, handcrafted cocktails, craft breweries, curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages, live entertainment, and much more.
Chef Lindsay Autry; Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
City of Angels Food & Wine will take place at Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles, a vibrant, diverse culinary hub renowned for its cutting-edge cuisine and cultural richness.
Housed in a magnificently restored 19th-century cathedral, Vibiana is one of the city’s most iconic event venues, blending historic grandeur with modern sophistication.
As one of the nation’s most dynamic food destinations, Downtown Los Angeles offers the perfect backdrop for Southern California’s premier world-class culinary festival, where innovation, tradition, and flavor converge in an unforgettable celebration.
Chef Jonathon Sawyer; Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
City Of Angels Chefs, Courtesy of City of Angels Food & Wine
The inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine will feature an extraordinary lineup of 36 of the Best Chefs representing Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Chicago, Palm Beach, New York, and Mexico. This exemplary event promises to be a spectacular showcase of culinary excellence.
All-Star Chef Lineup includes:
Event Host Chef Neal Fraser: Redbird, Vibiana – Downtown Los Angeles, CA
Chef Vartan Abgaryan: Momed – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Govind Armstrong: Post & Beam, The Lobster, 8 oz. Burger Bar – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Lindsay Autry: Honeybelle – Palm Beach, FL
Chef Franklin Becker: Point Seven – New York, NY
Chef Giberto Cetina: Holbox, Chichen Itza – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Josiah Citrin: Mélisse, Citrin, Charcoal Venice, Dear John’s, Openair, Augie’s on Main – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Tolu Eros: ILE LA – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Ben Ford: Ford’s Filling Station, Galerie – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jeffray Gardner: Marsatta Chocolate – Old Town Torrance, CA
Chef Joel Hammond: Uchi West Hollywood – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Katianna Hong & Chef John Hong: Yangban – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jessica Koslow: Sqirl – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Vivian Ku: Pine & Crane, Joy – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Donnie Masterton: The Restaurant @ Sollano 16 – San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Lord Maynard Llera: Kuya Lord – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Raphael Lunetta: Lunetta – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Sergio Ortego: Bontanica – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Dylan Patel: avec – Chicago, IL
Chef Michael Reed: Poppy & Seed, Poppy + Rose – Anaheim, Los Angeles, CA
Chef Andreas Roller: Jonathan Club – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Steve Samson: Rossoblu, Superfine – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jonathon Sawyer: Kindling – Chicago, IL
Chef Warren Schwartz: Magpies Softserve – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Shannon Swindle: Funke, Felix Trattoria – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Jimmy Shaw: Loteria Grill – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Kris Tominaga: Manuela – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Bret Thompson: Pez Coastal Kitchen – Pasadena, CA
Chef Niki Vahle & Anna Sonenshein: Little Fish – Los Angeles, CA
Chef Marcel Vigneron: Lemon Grove – Los Angeles, CA
City of Angeles Food Wine
This year’s City of Angels Food & Wine event beneficiary is St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, whose mission is to prepare and deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors and other vulnerable residents across Los Angeles, regardless of age, illness, disability, race, religion, or ability to pay. St. Vincent Meals on Wheelsdelivers over 100,000 meals each month to seniors at risk of hunger and stands on the front lines for the homebound and vulnerable throughout L.A. County, especially during emergencies like the recent Los Angeles wildfires, providing nutritious meals, shelf-stable food, wellness checks, and even pet food. More than 250,000 seniors in Los Angeles face food insecurity, and many of them are isolated and homebound. For these individuals, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is a lifeline.
This year’s Partners include Delta Air Lines as the official Airline, Chef Works as the official Hospitality Apparel, IceBulb as the official Ice Supplier, Waterboy as the official Hydration, and Vibiana as the official Event Venue.
Ticket Information: The Inaugural City of Angels Food & Wine will take place on Friday, July 25th, 2025, and Saturday, July 26th, 2025, and this is a 21+ event. A DELTA VIP Early Entry Pass will be held from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Regular Admission will be from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets are on sale starting Wednesday, May 14, 2025. For more information on the City of Angels Food & Wine, please visit www.CityofAngelsFW.com.
Transportation and Parking: Guests are strongly encouraged to utilize professional car services, such as Lyft, as alcoholic beverages will be served at the event. Self-parking is conveniently available in a Joe’s Parking Structure across the street from Vibiana.
Follow City of Angels Food & Wine for the latest updates on:
Facebook: @cityofangelsfoodandwine
Instagram: @cityofangels_foodandwine
City of Angels Food & Wine
Vibiana
214 Main St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
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Bring Great Flavors to your Los Angeles Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough
Bring Great Flavors to your Los Angeles Thanksgiving with Wine Ideas from Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough.
Thanksgiving is coming up fast, and you just have a few days left, do not panic just yet.
Most people are not “hosting” a Thanksgiving; instead, they are guests. Whether its family, friends, or you are the plus one, it is always better to make a good impression – and what better way than with an exceptional wine or two?
Wine can be inexpensive; our winemaker suggested a few wines between $15-$45.
Brian Cheesborough has more than 20 vintages of wine experience and made 90+ point wines in 6 different regions worldwide (California, France, New Zealand, Argentina, and more). He is an expert at pairing flavors and (more importantly) how to fix sour or off flavors – think dry turkey. (yikes!)
Winemaker Brian Cheeseborough shares Delicious Wine Pairings for Your Thanksgiving Feast
Take it away, Brian!
Thanks for having me. I’m excited to share these ideas because there are two goals: if the food is incredible, we want a wine that matches it and makes it even better (think like a dancing partner), and secondly, if the food is not great, we want a way to elevate the experience and fix the mistake.
Wine can do that! Most of these wines are from vineyards I have worked with or fellow Fresno State alums, some of whom I sat in a lecture with about all things wine. Can’t find the exact bottle? There are numerous producers for these wines under $50 and some below $20 – follow the varietals.
So, let us get started.
Alexander Valley Vineyards – Gewürz, 2021 Mendocino County
Alexander Valley Vineyards – Gewürz, 2021 Mendocino County
This Gewürz can solve many problems. It is a great wine to start the night; It’s also great when you’re eating something dry or bland. Yes, it is on the sweeter side. The aromatics are floral, with enticing notes of apple, grapefruit, and citrus; the mouth is silky and rich. This will pair well with any course. I like it with turkey best!
Buy it here: AVV 2021 Gewürz – Organically Grown
Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 Estate Chardonnay
Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 Estate Chardonnay
Another great option to start the party. The nose is a fresh bouquet of apricot, lemon, lime, and honey. The mouth is rich and supple with flavors of golden apple, caramel, and vanilla, with a nice round, refreshing finish. You can easily pair this with rich seafood dishes like shrimp alfredo and crab-stuffed lobster tail. Also, creamy potatoes or spiced pumpkins. (If you end up with pumpkin or squash on your plate and try a glass of this, you will thank me later.)
Buy it here: Willamette Valley Vineyards – Estate Chardonnay
Pine Ridge Vineyards 2021 Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend
Pine Ridge Vineyards 2021 Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend
One more light suggestion to start off your Los Angeles Thanksgiving!
This is crisp, bright, and full of life. The nose is a bouquet of honeysuckle, and orange blossoms, with a twist of ginger spice. The mouth is full-bodied with refreshing acidity. Flavors of tangerine, lime, and green apple. It’ll pair great with a light salad, goat cheese, and olives.
Buy it here: Chenin Blanc + Viognier White Blend – Pine Ridge Vineyards
Now, let us go to the Reds!
Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019
It has a gorgeous fruit-driven nose with aromas of red fruit, cherry, and plum. The mouth is sleek and silky, medium body with flavors of black currant and blueberry, with lush and velvety tannins. It would pair well with turkey, venison with traditional gravy, or cranberry.
Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta 2019
Buy it here: Abacela Tempranillo Fiesta
Dutton-Goldfield’s 2020 Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
Dutton-Goldfield’s 2020 Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
The nose starts telling you this is something extra special; classic rich blackberry, pomegranate, and a touch of vanilla to round out the aromas. The mouth is super juicy and decadent, full of bright red cherry and cola with a baking spice finish. You want this with your main entree – turkey, ham, and stuffing. The people at your party drinking this will be glancing at each other, smiling between bites – they will know why!
Buy it here: Mendocino Hills Pinot Noir
Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River – 2019
Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River – 2019
On the nose, red fruit notes with cherry and plum. On the mouth, medium body with moderate oak, black currant, and blueberry, with delicate tannins. This pairs well with lean meat.
Buy it here: Porter Creek, Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River
The critical thing to remember is that regardless of your budget, you can find a great flavor to pair with what you are eating. Also, the wine can “save” the day, just in case it ends up a little (or a lot) dry or bland. You are not the chef du jour for your Los Angeles Thanksgiving, but you can still contribute to the sharing.
Brian Cheeseborough is currently the Director of Winemaking at FermForge in West Texas.
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LA’s Hottest new Foodie Destination, Westwood’s Wolfsglen, Serves up Fun Dishes and Cocktails
LA’s Hottest new Foodie Destination, Westwood’s Wolfsglen, Serves up Fun Dishes and Cocktails
So much good food!
Mushroom Arancini, Shrimp Toast, Steak Tartare,
Rigatoni Diavola, Cacio e Pepe,
Pan Roasted Pork Chop,
Homemade Peach Pie, Mango Sweet Rice, Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake
And drinks!
Razz-Mez-Tazz made of mezcal, mango, spicy bitter, agave and Tajin.
Black Gold prepared with Neft vodka, simply syrup, cucumbers, and activated charcoal
Wolfsglen, Westwood’s premier cocktail and dining destination, features New American cuisine and a hot Cocktail Scene. They’re getting a lot of rave reviews already!
Located at 1071 Glendon Avenue in Westwood, Wolfsglen is Westwood’s premier cocktail and dining destination featuring New American cuisine with a global Angeleno influence complemented by an array of expertly crafted cocktails.
Inspired by the legacy of John Wolfskill, a former state senator and pioneer rancher who played a pivotal role in the development of the land where Westwood Village now stands, Wolfsglen blends history, culture, and cuisine into a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Sammy Espinoza – General Manager, Photography by Tonelson
Quietly opening its doors in November 2022, Wolfsglen is the brainchild of new hospitality team CFO Mark Garcia, Director of Operations Fernanda Hay, General Manager Sammy Espinoza, Chef Fidel Guzman, Sous Chef & Pastry Chef Moriah Castañeda, and Bar Manager Edward Ruiz.
Wolfsglen’s culinary journey begins with Chef Fidel Guzman
Wolfsglen’s culinary journey begins with Chef Fidel Guzman, whose New American seasonal menu embraces global Angeleno flavors, showcasing the finest seasonal and fresh ingredients.
Photography by Tonelson
Starter Dishes
The To Start features delectable dishes like Brown Butter Labneh, Hummus with chili crisps, Burrata with grilled and flambé peaches, Esquites, Mushroom Arancini, Shrimp Toast, Steak Tartare, Shawarma, and Bone Marrow & Black Garlic, among others.
Photography by Tonelson
Handmade Pastas
Handmade Pastas take center stage with Chef Fidel’s Rigatoni Diavola, Cacio e Pepe, and Bolognese, each prepared to perfection.
Photography by Tonelson
Mouthwatering Entrées
The Entrées boast mouthwatering selections such as Pan Roasted Pork Chop with a togarashi-whiskey glaze, Steak Frites, Wolfsglen Burger with candied bacon, spicy aioli, and arugula,Beyond Burger, Roast Chicken with aji verde and pea tendrils, Seared Salmon served with a pineapple ginger glaze and miso potato purée, Seared Striped Bass, and Cauliflower Steak with curry and raisin chutney.
Photography by Tonelson
Leave room for dessert
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert! Culinary duo, Chef Fidel Guzman and Sous Chef & Pastry Chef Moriah Castañeda present an array of tantalizing options, including Homemade Peach Pie, Mango Sweet Rice, Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake, and Ricotta Donuts with blueberry compote and lemon curd.
Photography by Tonelson
Wolfsglen’s bar program
Wolfsglen’s bar program, originally created by Fernanda Hay, now under the expert guidance of Bar Manager Edward Ruiz, offers a diverse range of perfectly balanced and playful cocktails. Signature creations include the Razz-Mez-Tazz made of mezcal, mango, spicy bitter, agave and Tajin, Purple Rain comprised of gin, blueberry purée, lemon, and butterfly pea flower, Geisha’s Kiss with Masumi sparkling sake, elderflower liqueur, and lychee purée, and Black Gold prepared with Neft vodka, simply syrup, cucumbers, and activated charcoal, with even more to try.
In addition, Wolfsglen also offers specially select White Wine, Red Wine, Rosé, Sparking, and Beer + Cider.
Courtesy of Wolfsglen
Wolfsglen’s is the ideal destination
Nestled in a historic two-story building developed in the 1930s, Wolfsglen showcases beautiful high ceilings, modern design, a lush patio for al fresco dining, and private event spaces. It is the ideal destination for lunch, dinner, drinks with friends, intimate gatherings, or special events. With its rich history, elegant ambiance, and mouthwatering cuisine, Wolfsglen promises an unforgettable dining and drinking experience for everyone!
Social Media: Follow Wolfsglen on Instagram @wolfsglenwestwood
Wolfsglen is open every Sunday and Monday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11:30 am to 12:30 am, every Friday from 11:30 am to 1:00 am, and every Saturday from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am.
Wolfsglen offers Howlin Hour every Tuesday through Friday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Late-Night Howlin Hour every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 pm to 12:30 am.
For more information about Wolfsglen or to make reservations, please call 310.208.1071 directly or visit www.Wolfsglen.com.
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Eve Bushman’s Wine Spectator Grand Tour 2024 Las Vegas
Eve Bushman‘s Wine Spectator Grand Tour 2024 Las Vegas
Last Saturday night, at Resorts World Las Vegas, Eddie and I covered our very first Wine Spectator Grand Tour tasting!
Eyeballing this one for a while, as all the wines scored 90 points or greater – any 90-point and up wine awarded blind by Wine Spectator means a lot in my opinion – and there were 235 wineries represented!
I had some California favorites I wanted to try, and of course dozens from around the world.
But, knowing me, covering the event was going to take most of my time and I would be lucky to hit up just so many tables, with that in mind these were my favorite wines and their numerical scores:
Vina Almaviva Puento Alto 2021, 96.
Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Benchland Select 2019, 91.
Bodega Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata Mendoza 2009 (Cab and Malbec), 94.
Cesare Amarone Valpolicella Classico, 2018, 91.
Louis Roederer Brut Champagne Collection 244 NV, 93.
Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Signature 2019, 93.
Charles Heidsieck Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne, NV, 93.
Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Family Reserve 2019, 94.
Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2021, 94.
Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District 2021, 94.
Croft Vintage Port 2017, 97.
Cuvaison Pinot Noir Napa Valley Los Carneros Small Lot Spire 2021, 92.
Darioush Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Signature 2018, 92.
Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2021, 92.
Frank Family Chardonnay Carneros 2021, 92.
Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Kathryn Hall 2016, 96.
Laurent-Perrier Brut Rose Champagne Cuvee NV, 92.
Marques de Caceres Rioja Gaudium Reserva 2018, 91.
Mollydooker Shiraz McLaren Vale Velvet Glove 2019, 94.
Pasqua Amarone Della Valpolicella Mai Dire Mai 2013, 91.
Pio Cesare Barbaresco 2019, 93.
Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2019, 91.
Roederer Estate Brut Rose Anderson Valley L’Ermitage 2015, 93.
Sandeman Tawny Port 20 Year Old NV, 92.
Schramsberg Vineyard Brut Rose North Coast 2020, 93.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District S.L.V. 2018, 94.
Taub Family Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Beckstoffer Vyds Georges III 2019, 93.
Tensley Syrah Santa Barbara County OGT 2021, 94.
Torbreck Grenache Barossa Valley Hillside Vineyard 2021, 93.
Trimbach Riesling Alsace Frederic Emile 2016, 94.
Vina Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard 2021, 96.
Vina Montes Purple Angel Colchagua Valley 2020, 93.
Yalumba Cabernet-Shiraz South Australia The Caley 2018, 95.
Zenato Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2018, 92.
Event Notes
You can get there 30 minutes or so in advance to check in, get your wrist band and wine glass voucher.
Lots of people lined up to get in, but once the clocked chimed the appointed hour, we were in the large tasting room within minutes.
The dining room had plenty of seating, with different food options – Italian and Mexican – and a dessert table. We went for the pasta, carbo-loading for our stamina, which we enjoyed after the first hour.
Bathrooms were close by, plenty of water stations, pour out buckets and if there was a line at a table you could just go to the next one.
IMHO there is no reason to wait at a particular table at this event as you know everything they are offering is a top-scoring wine. The winery representatives were extremely knowledgeable about their wines.
View the wineries that participated here.
Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Proof Awards, Cellarmasters, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards.
You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.
