Pasadena, California

The kind of place you just smile when you walk in.  I could see some fantastic bottles on the bar shelf, dimly lit and great atmosphere. On top of that, a long overdue meal with my high school best friend, Will Flannigan, that I hadn’t seen in 30+ years. 

I selected their Classic Old Fashioned. Aged for 40 days in an American Oak barrel. Four Roses Bourbon, Luxardo Liqueur & Angostura Bitters.  Perfectly paired with a steak. Great meal. Great staff. The type of joint that made you feel like you had eaten there forever on your very first visit.

But perhaps the best pour of the night came after the meal.  I jokingly asked the waiter how much for a couple of Van Winkle Lot B’s.

Usually, it is an insane amount.  But not tonight.  He brought over the bottle and neatly poured us a 2 oz. nightcap each of this delicious 12-year-old unicorn at an unexpected $35 per. Sweet, fruity & creamy. An unexpected score that topped off a great visit.