The Nightlife: Throwing Negs is so 2005
Bartender of the Week: Jillian Gotlib serves the Fuego, a chipotle pineapple concoction. Photo by Anna Cox.
Renovations all along Hermosa Avenue are in full swing. Not sure what’s up with Spiaggia 14, but looks like they are closed until, well, until they open again. Appears they are remodeling the inside is all. Moving south, we see Studio is near rip-roaring ready to go. Good work boys. In former spot of Buzz Pop Candy Shop will be a Florida-based affordable fashion shop. Henri Girl Boutique opens Friday. Shop girls are friendly. Great karma promises future success. Mean girls not allowed. I just made that up. They are probably very tolerant of all girls as long as they have good taste. Go say hi to Erin. Once Fernando’s landlord gets the ball rolling, the block will be complete and I should have a very nice view during my Bar Method workout.
Sugar Rays Studio replaces that clothing store that used to feature raunchy gear, next to Zane’s . Good tagline: “No drills. No dust. Just gel.” Like the happy yellow sign. This will be the 3rd nail salon within a couple blocks. Good luck everyone.
Old News: Ocean Bar is looking awesome. Got rid of their unused VIP room so there’s space for everyone to dance freely. Makes it impossible for mean girls to set up their cliquey little clubhouse/forts. Which is why I have been absent for so long. DJ booth has been moved to the center of the dance floor. Way smarter use of space. Approved.
Ortega 120 is hosting the summer school version of Tequila University. July 24, August 28, and September 25. You get a guided tequila tasting led by Owner Demi Stevens, a cocktail lesson, even a churro.
Food Network personality Adam Gertler and his brother Keith host a Pop-Up dinner at Shade featuring a four-course dinner paired with local craft beers from El Segundo Brewing Company and Strand Brewing Company. $50, Sunday only, RSVP for 5:30 or 6:30 seating.
Happy Anniversary: Gasser Lounge celebrates 3 years. Everybody’s favorite Brazilian, Andre at Granny’s Grocery has been bringing joy to my neighborhood for 20 years!
My Favorite Thing Week #23: Mad Milagro Margarita at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, a savory cocktail made with Milagro tequila and fresh cilantro! I forgot how much I really like Tequila. This drink reminds me. Just decided, I’m allergic to vodka. Just now.
Bartender of the Week: Jillian Gotlib at the Lobby Bar in Terranea. This self-described compulsive mixologist is a celebration expert who thrives on enhancing the experience. She constantly challenges herself to use a food or dessert experience as inspiration for a new cocktail. Feels serving a cocktail is much more memorable than even a great wine. Cocktails are a reproducible memory. With contagious enthusiasm, she provides a complete visceral experience. Jillian is known for making pretty drinks with flair that make everyone else say “What are you drinking?” Monthly, customer Bunny drives 50 miles to have a Royal Princess made with Chambord, crown royal, and ice cream mix. Florida resident Joey Aucoin says, “This lady makes the best drinks!” Jillian feels the best bartenders make everyone feel included, which is how she developed the “with or without” cocktails. Taste great even sans alcohol. Pregnant ladies, teenagers, or those just taking a night off can feel part of the group. After visiting her once, you’ll start scheduling weekly visits. Start your habit now.
Throwing Negs is so 2005
Dating tip 11: Boys, you all need to quit with the “throwing negs.” That’s so 2005. Quit insulting girls. Stop trying to show how funny you are by mocking us. Try it boys, try talking to a girl the way you’d talk to a hot female boss. Respectful. Don’t fight with me like I’m your sister! Ergh! There are so many unworthies out there, that with a normal amount of human courtesy, you can easily outshine your brethren. Go forth.
And girls, we are not going to tolerate it. A guy gets two chances, just in case he’s nervous. When a boy insults you, tell him not to talk to you that way. If he persists, shake your head and walk away. Immediately find a nicer guy and hit on him. Most effective if this nice guy is in visible eye range of the jerky guy. We are trying to eliminate mean-ness here. This is my decree.
View the rest of the bartenders at www.facebook.com/AnnaCoxTheNightlife.