Eve's Wine 101

BACK BAR USA Announces Gala for Fourth Annual ‘For The Love Of Cocktails’

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LAS VEGAS – Celebrating its fourth year on the Las Vegas Strip, the “For The Love Of Cocktails” Grand Gala will bring together the nation’s leaders in spirits, mixology and cocktails on Friday, May 19 at Delano Las Vegas.

For the Love of Cocktails 2016

For the Love of Cocktails 2016

The Grand Gala will kick off with a happy hour reception at 5 p.m. at Franklin where guests can mix and mingle before the main event. VIP ticketholders will have access to the gala at Skyfall Lounge at 6 p.m. followed by general admission entry at 7 p.m. The exquisite event will offer a variety of craft cocktails along with gourmet appetizers and entrées from Alain Ducasse’s Rivea and access to meet world-renowned mixologists and chefs. Top-tier entertainment and additional surprises throughout the evening also will be included.  Tickets start at $99 plus tax and are available for purchase on the For Love of Cocktails website.

“Mixology has found its niche in Las Vegas,” said BACK BAR USA Founder and CEO Tim Haughinberry. “We developed ‘For The Love Of Cocktails’ to bring together some of the most passionate cocktail enthusiasts from across the country and we feel the event has done an excellent job in highlighting and supporting talented mixologists.”

Presented by top spirits consulting, marketing and design firm, BACK BAR USA, “For The Love Of Cocktails” spans the Las Vegas Strip in partnership with MGM Resorts International. The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) will once again play a prominent role in the event through bringing in top mixologists and bartenders from across the nation. The event would not be complete without world-renowned mixologist and author Tony Abou-Ganim, whose non-profit, the Helen David Relief Fund for Bartenders Affected by Breast Cancer, receives proceeds directly from ticket sales.

About BACK BAR USA

Back Bar USA is a full-service marketing, consulting and design firm with more than 25 years of experience in the beer, wine and spirits industries. Specializing in corporate and national account beverage programs with an emphasis on gaming, resorts, nightlife and fine dining, the company provides services ranging from menu development to ground-up venue concept, design and execution. Back Bar maintains an impressive portfolio of clients and brands. For more information, visit www.BackBarUSA.com.

About For The Love Of Cocktails

For The Love Of Cocktails is a three-day event celebrating the art of mixology, hosted by BACK BAR USA in partnership with world-renowned mixologist and author Tony Abou-Ganim and the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG). Through a series of events held in Las Vegas, attendees will come together to experience great cocktails, celebrate mixology as a craft and support an incredible charitable foundation, The Helen David Relief Fund for Bartenders Affected by Breast Cancer. Tickets will grant guests access to specialty cocktails, hand crafted by Las Vegas’ top USBG bartenders, and may be purchased at http://www.fortheloveofcocktails.com.

About The Helen David Relief Fund for Bartenders Affected by Breast Cancer

The Helen David Relief Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is a program of the USBG National Charity Foundation which honors the memory of Helen David, master mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim’s aunt, beloved bar owner and community leader who lost her battle with breast cancer. In her honor, the Helen David Relief Fund assists women in the bar industry nationwide by providing pre-screening services for breast cancer.

About The United States Bartenders’ Guild

The United States Bartenders’ Guild is an association comprised of the most skilled, knowledgeable, and professional bartenders in the industry and is dedicated to uniting professionals in service to the traditions of the bar and hospitality trade.  After putting down California roots in 1948, the USBG incorporated as a nonprofit (50 years strong!) and are now active in 45 markets nationwide with another dozen in the process of forming. For more information or to become a member, visit http://www.usbg.org.

About Tony Abou-Ganim

Tony Abou-Ganim is widely regarded as one of the pioneering and leading bar professionals in the world.  He has made dozens of national TV appearances on shows including TODAY, Iron Chef America, Good Morning America, CNBC, Fox News and more.  Abou-Ganim is the author of The Modern Mixologist: Contemporary Classic Cocktails (Agate, 2010), which offers readers an in-depth look into spirits and ingredients available to today’s mixologist, both professional and amateur alike.  This entertaining and informative journey will take readers from the early stages of the cocktail to what Abou-Ganim has come to deem “Modern Mixology.”  Abou-Ganim also has a DVD to his credit, Modern Mixology: Making Great Cocktails at Home, and hosted the Fine Living program Raising the Bar: America’s Best Bar Chefs. Abou-Ganim has also won two Iron Chef America competitions; his first pairing cocktails with Iron Chef Mario Batali in “Battle Mango,” and most recently pairing cocktails in  “Battle Tequila and Tortillas” with Iron Chef Jose Garces.  His signature branded line of Modern Mixologist bar tools was released in early 2013, along with his second book, Vodka Distilled (Agate, 2013). Abou-Gamin is also a partner at Inoteca Liquori in New York City. www.themodernmixologist.com.

About Delano Las Vegas

Delano Las Vegas offers a new all-suite, smoke-free luxury hotel experience located steps away from Mandalay Bay. Featuring a unique sand-meets-water design, Delano blends signature elements of Delano South Beach with the distinct energy only found on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel offers dynamic social spaces such as Franklin, an eclectic lounge; 3940 Coffee + Tea; and Della’s Kitchen, where “historic farmhouse meets urban kitchen.” BATHHOUSE Spa infuses the soothing elements of locally sourced ingredients, drawing inspiration from Morgans Hotel Group’s collection of hotels around the world as well as Delano Las Vegas’ desert locale. Delano Las Vegas is a wholly owned subsidiary of MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit delanolasvegas.com  or call toll free at (877) 632-5400 or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

SECRET HIDEAWAY REVEALED AS D’VINE LOUNGE BAR ATTRACTS WINE LOVERS TO DOWNTOWN LA

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New Owner, Gerald Ferrante, Crafts a Cosmopolitan Renovation with Updated Wine and Food Offerings and Live Music

LOS ANGELES — Down a flight of stairs off Flower Street in DTLA, wine lovers push back a heavy rustic door under a muted sign and discover a hidden gem in D’Vine Lounge Bar. Previously known as D’Vine Wine Cellar, new owner Gerald Ferrante renovated the existing space to have an old-world charm with new wines where time is measured by the glass. The below-ground location is key to storing wine properly in a cool, controlled-climate, and creates the ideal setting for pouring, swirling, and toasting. Served by the glass or bottle, whites, reds, rosés, champagnes, sparkling wines, and on-tap labels, from 10 different countries with over 50 varietals, satisfy all varieties of aficionado. D’Vine Lounge Bar, located at 821 South Flower Street in Los Angeles (below O Hotel and Spa), opens at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, and at 5 p.m. on weekends. Reservations are available at OpenTable.com or by calling (213) 262-8517. D’Vine’s ambience and atmosphere serves as a perfect rental venue for private parties (Holiday Season) and special celebrations (Bachelorette) before and during regular hours.

home1Under the cover of soft lighting and rustic wooden elements, guests are invited to linger at the long bar, converse at communal tables, or sit comfortably in furnished nooks and private corners while discovering new wines or enjoying old favorites.

“As a Frenchman and Angeleno, wine is always a pleasure,” says Ferrante. “The space has good vibrations and we wanted our guests to feel cozy and comfortable, and to feel as if they were at home. Except here, they have many more choices of wine than they would have at home with experts to help them choose.”

Ferrante adds, “People are curious about wines. Our expert stewards specialize in wine, not just pouring. They have a great deal of wine knowledge to advise our guests on new wines and tastes, how wine feels when tasting and drinking so they enjoy what they drink.”

Wine Offerings:

The wine selection at D’Vine features high-quality, dynamic wines ranging from affordable to expensive ($10-$18 per glass; $36 to $118 per bottle) from known labels to small wineries. Ferrante and his team choose wines to meet every palette and taste from fruity to earthly, from dry to oak with body that is light, medium or full. Each month, D’Vine introduces new wines to their collection so guests can try and discover something they have never had before.

With the new renovation, Ferrante also installed special equipment that enables guests to enjoy even the most expensive wines by the glass. High-end wines are usually sold by the bottle as they spoil with oxidation more easily, and therefore guests could not sample these specialties by the glass. However, with this new tool, D’Vine can indulge guests with a wider selection of wine offerings. D’Vine staff sommeliers can help guests choose their wines based on what they have liked and would like according to their preferences. D’Vine guests can purchase by the glass, by the bottle and by “wine flights” – a three-wine sample customized per guest’s request or with consultative help by D’Vine’s expert wine stewards.

Food Offerings and Cocktails:

D’Vine offers small plates designed to complement wine including rillettes, tartines, charcuterie (cold cuts), assorted cheeses, vegetables (pickled or marinated), house-made pates, and desserts. All food is prepared “made-to-order” from fresh and local sources. The food menu features staple items with new and seasonal options provided every few months so patrons can try something new with wine. Ranging from Zatar marinated Greek Olives ($4) to Tuna Crudo ($12), Avocado and Tomato Tartine ($8) to Kale Caesar Salad ($10), and selections from Charcuterie and Artisanal Cheeses (3 for $14 or 5 for $20), guests can also pair their wine with homemade chocolate truffles and daily sweet creations. Happy Hour offers food and drink specials including $6 wine and $5 beer, plus $6 Tartines.

Wine and cocktails have similar characteristics that please the taste palate: acidity, sweetness and of course, body. In addition to quality wines, D’Vine serves guests with classic cocktails and specialties including Mojito, Manhattan, Cosmopolitan, Old Fashioned, Dry Martini, and Bloody Mary.

Weekly Specials:

Monday:      50% any bottle of wine + Happy Hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Tuesday:      Wine Flight + Happy Hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday: Happy Hour all night

Thursday:    Live Music + Ladies’ Night + Happy Hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Friday:        Live Music + Happy Hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Saturday:     Live Music + Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m.

Sunday:       Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m.

 

Upcoming Live Music:

Sat., November 26th:      Flavia Bullet, saxophonist, and Adam Hansbrough, guitar

Thurs., December 1st:     Julia Kantor, vocalist

Friday, December 9th:    Flavia Bullet, saxophonist, and Adam Hansbrough, guitar

 

About D’Vine Lounge Bar

Previously known at D’Vine Wine Cellar, new owner Gerald Ferrante renovated the existing space and updated the wine offerings to a global selection from 10 countries pleasing to the wine novice and the sophisticated palette. D’Vine Lounge Bar, a hidden gem located below O Hotel’s Bar + Kitchen restaurant off of Flower Street, tempers the underground desires of Downtown LA’s wine society where time is measured by the glass. Under cover of soft lighting and rustic wooden elements sit communal tables and comfortably furnished nooks, a long bar, and a wine list with over 50 varietals for all varieties of aficionado. D’Vine also offers the perfect wine complement in shared plate offerings of rillettes, tartines, charcuterie, assorted cheeses, vegetables (pickled or marinated), house-made pates, and desserts. D’Vine is the wine-lover’s destination, playable on first dates, long days, and social gatherings, and is available for private events. D’Vine Lounge Bar is located at 821 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90017. Hours are 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, from 4:30 p.m. to Midnight on Friday, from 5 p.m. to Midnight on Saturday, and from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Sunday. Reservations are available at OpenTable.com or by calling (213) 262-8517. D’Vine’s ambience and atmosphere serves as the perfect rental location for private parties and special celebrations prior to and during regular hours of operation. View menus and gallery at www.dvinela.com and like us on Facebook (@dvineloungebar), Twitter (@dvinedtla) and Instagram (@dvinedtla).

and like us on Facebook (@dvineloungebar), Twitter (@dvinedtla) and Instagram (@dvinedtla).

Your Santa Clarita Wine Corkage Fees, Updated for 2016

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After compiling your Santa Clarita Valley Happy Hour 2016 Update in March of this year doing this one, the Santa Clarita Valley Corkage Fee 2016 Update, took a wee bit longer as it proved to be more daunting.

Eve cork

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Most restaurants don’t list corkage fees on their website or Facebook. Some don’t respond to emails or messages on social media. (Why hire someone to do your social media if they aren’t actually going to respond to your customers?) I went so far as to try and search “corkage” on restaurants in the area on Yelp, but soon discarded the idea as Yelp is an unreliable source, and it was time consuming. And to answer why I don’t call every single restaurant: I want a record in writing, so that I can be a reliable source!

So, for your ease, all restaurants in bold have been updated via direct email or a website for 2016. Those not in bold have the 2015 information. And, as I did with the Happy Hour list, I welcome your comments for any that I’ve missed or that you know about and would like to share the information.

[From Contributing Editor Michael Perlis: I know I’ve said this before, but please remember that BYOB is a privilege, not a right. When it is allowed, it should be appreciated, whatever the cost. Restaurants often base their pricing models on a certain percentage of alcohol sales to subsidize the food prices, so bringing your own bottle impacts that. Try to buy something off the wine or cocktail list, and tip your server as if you had bought your bottle at the restaurant. Also, call ahead to verify corkage policies, as they do change.]

Bold has the 2016 update.

Bj’s Brewhouse: Wine corkage fee is first bottle per table free, $7 / bottle thereafter.

Egg Plantation: $12.

Kabuki: $15

Lazy Dog Café: No corkage fee on wine brought in as long as it’s not currently listed on their menu, and any leftover can be taken home.

Le Chene: $15.

Margarita’s Mexican Grill: $15

Marstons: $10.

Newhall Refinery $15

Oaks Grille Valencia (Inside TPC): Non-member price is $20 per bottle (plus tax) and members are $12 per bottle. The charge is $12 per bottle for special events as well.

Persia Lounge: $15, 1/2 off during happy hour.

Piccola Trattoria: $15, additionally, if the party purchases another bottle of wine from our wine list on their visit, we waive the corkage fee!  

Rattlers Bar B Que: $5.

Route 66 Classic Grill: $10.

Sabor Cocina Mexicana: $15.

Salt Creek Grille: $10.

Solita: $15

Southern Smoke BBQ and Brewhouse: $15

Thelma’s Morning Café: $5.

Vines (in Hyatt): $15.

Wine 661: No corkage on in-store purchases; $20 corkage fee for outside bottles.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: $10, and 40% off on all wines by the bottle on Tuesdays from 4pm until closing for Wine Lover’s Night.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years.  She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Your Santa Clarita Happy Hours, Update for 2016

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Every year we try to provide all the information we can get from our local restaurants on their Happy Hours – just for you, our favorite peeps. Use this as a guide and feel free to comment on any restaurants we may have missed, and any details you can share.

Every restaurant on this alphabetical list was updated in March 2016 via direct email with a restaurant representative, a Facebook representative or culled directly from their website. And, to help further, each restaurant name is hyperlinked to their website so that you can gather any other info such as directions and regular menus.

Vines 2016 Happy Hour

Vines, at the Valencia Hyatt, 2016 Happy Hour

Feel free to share our list on your social networks via hyperlink.

SCV Happy Hours 2016

Azul Tequila: Monday through Friday 3pm until 7pm, $3.75 House Margaritas, $3.50 wine by the glass, $3.75 well drinks, draft beers $3.50 and $5 appetizers.

BJ’s Brewhouse Valencia: Monday through Friday 3-7pm, Sunday through Thursday 10pm until closing and all day Tuesday is half off wines by the glass or bottle. $1 off draft beer, bottled beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Happy Hour food menu.

Black Angus Steakhouse: Monday through Friday from 3pm until 7pm in the bar, all day Tuesdays and Sundays. $4 well drinks, $5 for 16 ounce bottled and draft beers, Margarita, Martini, select wines by the glass, $6 Texas Teas, Mojitos and reduced prices on full sized appetizers.

Bonefish Grill: “At Bonefish Grill, every hour is happy hour — seriously. Our All Day Every Day Cocktails are (always) $6, from the moment we open our doors to the moment we close them. We also offer a true happy hour for those of you looking for something more traditional. Cheers.”

Claim Jumper Valencia: In the saloon only, hours not listed and holidays excluded. Select menu items priced between $2 and $9.99, $4 select bottled beer, $4 to $8 select cocktails and $5 select wines by the glass.

Don Cuco Newhall: Daily from 4pm until 7pm, select beers between $3.50 and $4.50, $5.95 Margaritas and $5.25 well drinks, half price on all appetizers, in the bar only.

Gyi-Kaku Sushi Bar, Valencia location: About two dozen happy hour food specials as well as Saketini and Soju cocktails for $4.00, house sake hot/cold $5, Gyu-Kaku Nigori Sake for $7 and Sapporo draft for $1.95 a glass and $7.50 a pitcher.

Islands: Monday through Friday from 4pm until 7pm, select appetizers and drink specials.

Kabuki: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Monday thru Thursday 9pm until closing, Sunday 8pm until closing. Select cocktails $5.95 to $6.50, lowered prices on select hot and cold Sakes, select wines are $4.25 a glass and lowered prices on select beers.

Lazy Dog: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Sunday through Thursday 9pm until closing in the bar and patio only, drinks priced fro $3 to $7 and Happy Hour portioned appetizers between $3 and $7.

Le Chene: 4:30pm until 7pm every day except Saturday. No specifics on website.

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: In the bar only from 3 until 7 pm Monday through Friday and 9pm until closing every day. Happy Hour menu, select 22-ounce draft beers, wines by the glass and cocktails are $1 off.

Margaritas Mexican Grill: Margarita Monday all day happy hour, open to close, bar and dining room, free bean dip after 4pm, happy hour bar appetizers under $8, weekly happy hour is Tuesday through Friday from 3pm-7pm.

Marston’s Valencia: Tuesday through Sunday 5pm to 7pm. $1 off specialty drinks and Martinis, $5 well drinks, $3.25 bottled beer, $4 draft beer, $5 wine by the glass, $6 well Martinis, $8 Specialty Martinis and Specialty Drinks. Happy Hour Appetizer menu.

Newhall Refinery: Happy Hour Drinks Tuesday – Friday 3pm to 5pm: Beer flight (3) 4oz draught $4, Wine flights (3) 2oz $4, House wine $4 glass and any wine by the glass $2 off. Happy Hour Bites Tuesday – Sunday 4pm to 5pm: Hoisin pork belly bao bun $5, Angus slider & chips $5, Chicken & waffles $6, Mini refiners fries $5, Hummus and naan $5, Pretzel with Mornay dip $5, Brioche soldiers and egg $4 and Lobster corn dogs $11.

New Moon Valencia: 5pm until closing, weekends all day long. Beer $4.25 to $5.50, wine by the glass and Sangria $5.50, select cocktails $5.50 and $6.50, appetizer menu items $3.50 to $6.00.

Olive Terrace Bar and Grill: Every day 3pm-7pm, $3.75-$4.75 select cocktails, with Complimentary Hors d’ oeuvres, Snacks $5.75, Thursday Night Martini Night select Martinis $7 from 5pm-9pm.

Persia Lounge: 3pm-6pm every day 1/2 off on house wine or any bottle of wine and 1/2 off on domestic beers.

Piccola Trattoria: Monday through Thursday from 5pm – 7pm, $5 well drinks and bar bites, select signature handcrafted cocktails are at a reduced price.

Presidente Santa Clarita: Monday through Friday from 2:30pm until 6pm in the Cantina only, Happy Hour appetizer menu, all draft beer $4 for 14 ounce and $6.50 for 22 ounce, $5 plain and $5.25 flavored 16 ounce house Margaritas, $5.75 to $7.50 for 16 ounce premium Margaritas, $4 to $4.50 tequilas, $4 well drinks, $4.50 house wine by the glass.

Rattler’s Bar B Que: Monday to Friday 3-6:30 p.m., bar only, food priced between $1.50 and $5.00, 16 oz. draft beer $4.99, 20 oz. draft beer $5.99, house wine $6 to $9 a glass, cocktails between $7 and $9.

Route 66 Classic Grill: Happy Hour in the bar and patio only and not during special events, Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm and again from 9pm until closing, Saturday 9pm until closing and Sunday 7pm until closing. $1 off draft beer, $1 off well drinks.

Sabor Cocina Mexicana: Mon – Fri 2PM – 6PM Bar or Patio only, Margaritas: De la Casa 100% Agave reposado tequila…6.50, Seasonal Flavor of the Day Served on the rocks… 6.50, Beer: Draft or Bottled…4.50. Well Drinks…5.00.   Botanitas: Sabor Duo Dips, Seasonal guacamole, Bean Dip, Tostaditas… 6.50, Taquitos: Shredded chicken, salsa verde, crema, queso fresco, guacamole…6.50, Cheese Quesadillas…6.00, Panuchos Yucatecos: Corn tortilla, black beans, cochinita, escabeche, habanero salsa…6.50. Subject to change without prior notice. Not available on holidays.

Salt Creek Grille Valencia: Featured Monday-Friday From 4-6:30pm in the Bar Only: Bites: [stuffed jumbo shrimp]$11 Stuffed with Horseradish & Bacon Wrapped, Chipotle Honey Sauce; [baked goat cheese marinara]$7 Sautéed Wild Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions, Served with Focaccia Toast; [artichoke & parmesan spinach dip]$7 Baked with Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheeses, Served with Tortilla Chips; [housemade chips]$5
 With Crumbled Gorgonzola Cheese & Bacon, Served with Chipotle Aioli; [blackened chicken nachos]$8 Tortilla Chips with Blackened Chicken, Cheddar Cheese, Pinto Beans Jalapeno Peppers, Pico de Gallo & Sour Cream; [chicken salad lettuce cups]$9 Chicken, Pecans, Green Apple, Dried Cranberries, Shallots Greek Yogurt & Apple Cider Vinegar, Served in Lettuce Cups; [corned beef sliders]$8
Corned Beef with Chipotle Cole Slaw, Pickles, Swiss Cheese & Dijon Mustard; [creek sliders]$9
Mini Burgers on Hawaiian Buns with Blue Cheese Aioli & Wild Baby Arugula; [chicken tacos]$9
Blackened Chicken, Bacon, Cotija Cheese & Chipotle Cole Slaw Served with Pico de Gallo. Drink: [well drinks]$4,
[draft beers]$5, [bottled beers]$4 and [house wines by the glass]$5.

Sisley Italian Kitchen: All day every day in bar and lounge, well drinks and beer $3, Margaritas and House Wine $4, Selected call drinks, well Martinis and Cosmopolitans $5. Appetizers priced between $4 – $6.

Solita Tacos and Margaritas: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:15 pm, and for Reverse (Late Night) Happy Hour from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm. guests can enjoy a tiered menu of snacks and beverages ranging from $4.00 to $6.00 each. Naked Guacamole or a pair of Street Tacos like Wood Grilled Chicken, Crispy Fish and Tofu for $4 or for $5 there is Oak-Roasted Chicken, Pork Carnitas, Chorizo Sweet Potato and Black Bean or the Chicken Taquitos ($5). The only thing better than the signature Guacamole solita (served in a fried tortilla bowl and topped with diced mango, tomato, onion, Serrano chile and cilantro for $6), is pairing a $6 solita House, Frozen or Skinny Margarita from Beverage Director Colin Pflugradt with it. Well Drinks and glasses of wine like the Jade Mountain Merlot and Castle Rock Chardonnay are $5.

Valencia Wine Company: Sunday all day from 1 to 9 pm, Monday through Thursday 4 – 7 pm. Premium selection of wines by the glass $8 and $10 appetizers including empanadas and cheese plate.

Vines, $5 bites, $5 bartender specials as well as select wines, draft or bottled beer and “upgraded” well cocktails. (see photo)

Wine 661: All day Sunday from 3-10pm.

Wokcano Valencia: Monday all day, Tuesday – Thursday 3pm to 7pm and 9pm to 2am, Friday 3pm until 7pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm and 9pm to 2am in lounge and sushi bar. Happy Hour food menu, $5 draft beer, $5 Sangria, $5 well drinks, $5 house wine, $5 Sake Bomb.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: Available in the bar only Monday 4pm until closing, Tuesday through Friday 4pm until 6pm, Saturday 8pm until closing. Happy Hour food menu, 25% off other appetizers, $1.50 off all pints and wine by the glass.  And 40% off on all wines by the bottle on Tuesdays from 4pm until closing for Wine Lover’s Night.

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill: Happy Hour 3pm until 6pm in the bar, all wines by the glass or bottle are half price on Tuesdays.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years.  She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Three Amazing Days (and Three Cocktails) in New Orleans, by Barbara Barrielle

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When I mention visiting New Orleans to people, many respond that they haven’t been back since Hurricane Katrina. Well, it’s been ten years and the city is back – and probably surpassing its earlier vibrancy.

The city still has a trashy, sticky all-night party street called Bourbon (yuck!) but unless you are heading to the historic restaurants of Galatoire’s or Arnaud’s, just walk down once and take a shower. There is so much else to see in New Orleans and the city has preserved their unique architecture, hospitality and traditions in their perseverance against incredible odds.

chargrilled oysters

chargrilled oysters

Walk around the French Quarter and stand in line for the obligatory Café du Monde beignets and coffee…so cheap and so sugary. The French Market has plenty of souvenirs but is also a great slice of some of the local foods and home of what my local friends claim is the best Bloody Mary in a city of Bloodies at the Organic Banana Juice Bar.

Learn how to eat crawfish and grab some at one of the many casual bars serving spicy pounds of the little buggers…but ask them how to peel them and be prepared to take some time…and still be hungry.

Oysters are a cornerstone of New Orleans cuisine and they are abundant. There are whole guides of where to find the best and cheapest oysters at happy hour. My favorite is a hip brasserie called Luke where the bi-valves run you 75 cents each and cocktails like the ones below are half off. Elegant with waiter service form 3-6 pm and you can make a reservation! Also check out The Blind Pelican on Charles Street (easily accessible by charming, but sometimes crowded, historic street cars) where raw oysters run a quarter (yes .25) from 4-8 PM and these amazing chargrilled oysters (with butter and cheese and addictive) are only $7.50 a dozen. Get there early because lines will form!

After walking, eating and all the drinking (to go cups are at the exit of every bar) that makes New Orleans a place to love, a good hotel isn’t far away. Choose one of the historic properties like Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter with its classic Carousel Bar or a trendy new boutique like Q and C in the Warehouse District. The Hyatt French Quarter has the biggest pool and a super location while the W is hip and has crazy 25 cent Martinis at lunch…

Yes, New Orleans likes a good cocktail….or three and happy hour is a daily ritual. For some of the best classics, try hotel bars like the above-mentioned Carousel Bar or 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane or Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt. At the Q and C, my happy hour fave is a French 75 paired with amazing French Fries for $7.

The Cocktails of New Orleans

Monteleone

Monteleone

VIEUX CARRE

This 1930s New Orleans recipe is named after the city’s French Quarter—it’s a potent but smooth cocktail, just like the Crescent City. A staple of the famed Carousel Bar at the legendary Hotel Monteleone.

Ingredients:

3/4 oz. rye whiskey
3/4 oz. Cognac
3/4 oz. sweet vermouth
1 barspoon Bénédictine
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Tools: mixing glass, barspoon, strainer
Glass: Old Fashioned
Garnish: cherry

Combine ingredients in a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir well, strain into an ice-filled Old Fashioned glass and garnish. (courtesy of Imbibemagazine.com)

 

French 75

French 75

FRENCH 75

Named for an innovative piece of French artillery and comprising just four ingredients — gin, lemon, simple syrup, Champagne — the French 75, when made properly, features nose-tickling bubbly as the gateway to a perfectly integrated combination of floral gin and citrus.

INGREDIENTS:

1 oz. gin (or cognac is typical in NoLa)
½ oz. simple syrup
½ oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice
Brut Champagne or a dry sparkling white wine
Lemon twist, to garnish

Combine gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled and strain into a glass. Top with Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist to serve. (courtesy of bar.com)

 

SAZERAC

The Sazerac is the holy grail of historical cocktails, and is argued to be where the name cocktail originates (a mixture of spirits, bitters, and sugar, to be exact). Somewhere along the line, it was decided that the Sazerac must be made with surgeon-like precision, and that any variation from the recipe deems the cocktail not a Sazerac, and instead some sort of bastard cocktail unworthy of consumption.

The classic recipe calls for

Ingredients:

2 oz Rye Whiskey
3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
1 demerara sugar cube

Muddle the sugar and bitters, then add whiskey and ice. Stir and Strain into a chilled, Absinthe-rinsed rocks glass. Twist a lemon peel over the surface and discard.
(credited to William Boothby, World Drinks and How to Mix them 1908)

Your SCV (and MORE) Happy Hour List

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Besides the SCV Wine Calendar for events, we also have compiled a list of local Happy Hours taken from website pages or via email. Some of our hyperlinks go straight to the Happy Hour menus! (We have not visited all of these, so this is not a list of Eve Wine 101 recommended Happy Hours, it’s just a list of all the ones you can check out in Santa Clarita that we now know about!) If you know of any others please email them to us, as you see a pal emailed us a couple outside of SCV that we shared at the bottom of our list:

Azul Tequila: Monday through Friday 3pm until 7pm, $3.75 House Margaritas, $3.50 wine by the glass, $3.50 well drinks, $.99 Coors light draft, (All other draft beers $3.50) and $5 appetizers.

Bier Academy, Beer Bar and Grill: From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. $1 off pints and appetizers. Pints can range from $3.50 to $7 depending on the type of beer. Always have 16 ounce $3 Rolling Rocks or PBR.

BJ’s Brewhouse: Monday through Friday 3-7pm, Sunday through Thursday 10pm until closing and all day Tuesday is half off wines by the glass or bottle. $4 craft beers and call drinks, $5 Mojitos and Martinis, $6 select wines by the glass, Happy Hour food menu.

Black Angus Steakhouse: Monday through Friday from 3pm until 7pm in the bar, Tuesdays and Sundays all day long, $3.50 well drinks, $4.50 16 ounce bottled and draft beers, $5.50 select wines by the glass and reduced prices on full sized appetizers.

Claim Jumper Valencia: Monday through Friday from 3pm until 6:30pm, Saturday 11am until 3pm, in the saloon only. Select menu of items priced between $2 and $8, $4 pints of draft beer, $5 to $8 select cocktails and $5 select wines by the glass.

Sazerac with Whistle Pig, Antigua Bitters, nice and neat

Sazerac with Whistle Pig, Antigua Bitters, nice and neat at Cuvee.

NEW 2015: Cuvée Bistro & Raw Bar: 2-7pm every day with $2 Taco Bar from 2-5pm. (Though at press time I was just there on a Tuesday and we were offered but one get one drinks until 7pm.)

Don Cuco Newhall: Daily from 4pm until 7pm, select beers between $3.00 and 4.50, $5.95 Margaritas and $5.25 well drinks, half price on all appetizers, in the bar only.

Gyi-Kaku Sushi Bar: After 8:30 p.m. you can get house sake for $2.95, a mug of Sapporo for $3, a pitcher for $6.50, 50% off all cocktails.

Islands: Monday through Friday from 4pm until 7pm, select appetizers and drinks under $5. (A perusal of their website no longer shows pricing only the Happy Hour time.)

Kabuki: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Monday through Thursdays 9pm until closing and 8 pm until closing on Sundays. Select cocktails $5.95 to $6.50, lowered prices on select hot and cold Sakes, select wines are $3.50 a glass and lowered prices on select beers.

Lazy Dog: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Sunday through Thursday 9pm until closing in the bar and patio only, drinks priced from $3 to $7 and Happy Hour portioned appetizers between $3 and $6.

Le Chene: 4:30pm until 7pm every day except Saturday. No specifics on website.

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: In the bar only from 3 until 7 pm Monday through Friday and 9pm until closing every day. Happy Hour menu, select 22 ounce draft beers between $4 and $5, $5.50 – $7.50 select wines by the glass, $4.25 well drinks, $6.50 – $7.25 Martinis, featured cocktails between $4.75 and $7.50.

Margaritas Mexican Grill: Monday through Friday from 3pm-7pm in bar area only. No drink specials listed on website.

Marston’s Valencia: Tuesday through Sunday 5pm to 7pm. $1 off Marston’s specialty drinks and Martinis, $4 select glasses of wine, $4 all draft beer, $3.25 bottled beer, $5 well drinks, $6 well martinis and Cosmopolitans. Happy Hour Appetizer menu.

Newhall Refinery: Available Tuesday – Friday  3:00pm-5:00pm: House Wine – Cabernet or Chardonnay $4, Specialty Beer Flight – Bartender’s Choice (3) 4oz. Draught $4, Custom Beer Flight – your choice of (3) 4oz. Draught $6, Brown Bag Special – 12oz. Bottle, Bartender’s Choice $4 (Guess brown bag style beer for additional comp), Wine Flights – your choice of (3) 2oz wine by the glass from $6, $2 off small bottled beer, $4 off large bottled beer, $2 off wine flights, $2 off wine by the glass, HAPPY HOUR BITES Available Tuesday – Sunday  4:00pm-5:00pm – Chipotle wings, lime cream, peanuts & cilantro $6, Chicharones, house yuzu kosho hot sauce, celery greens, radish $4, Pickled beets and cherries, frisee, warm goat crostini $5, Mini refiners fries $5, Warm olives $3 and Chili lime bar nuts  $3.

New Moon Valencia: In the bar and lounge weekdays from 5pm until closing and all day long on weekends. Cocktails from $5 to $6, beer $3.75 to $5.50, wine $5 and appetizers from $3 to $6 (most are $4).

The Oaks Grille (inside TPC, Tournament Players Club): 4:30-6:30 Wednesdays and Thursday.

Persia Restaurant and Persia Lounge: Monday to Thursday 3pm to 7pm house wine $3.50 Domestic Beer $3, and Reverse Happy Hours every night from 8pm until closing for the same prices.

Presidente Santa Clarita: Monday through Friday from 2:30pm until 6pm in the cantina only, small bites starting at $2.50, all draft beer $3.25 for 14 ounce and $5.50 for 22 ounce, $4 plain and $4.50 flavored16 ounce house Margaritas, $5 to $6.75 for 16 ounce premium Margaritas, $3.50 to $4.25 tequilas, $3 well drinks, $4 house wine by the glass.

Rattler’s Bar B Que: Monday to Friday 3-7 p.m. bar only, food priced between $1.50 and $5.50, 16 oz. draft beer $4.99, 20 oz. draft beer $5.99, specialty cocktails $7 to $9.

Route 66 Classic Grill: Happy Hour in the bar and patio only and not during special events, Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm and again from 9pm until closing, Saturday 9pm until closing and Sunday 7pm until closing. $1 off draft beer and $1 off well drinks.

Sabor Cocina Mexicana: Monday to Friday 2pm until 6pm $6 margaritas, $4 beer, $4 well drinks and $6 appetizers.

Salt Creek Grille Valencia: Monday through Friday 4-6:30 pm in the bar only, well drinks $4, draft and bottled beers $4 and house wines by the glass $4. Bites ranging from $4 (soup of the day) to $10 (jumbo shrimp cocktail).

Sisley Italian Kitchen Valencia: Monday through Friday 3-7pm, Saturday 8-10pm and all day Sunday well drinks between $3 and $5, several appetizers between $3 and $4.95.

Watermelon Margaritas at solita

Watermelon Margaritas at solita

NEW 2015: Solita Tacos and Margaritas: Two Wood Grilled Chicken, Crispy Fish and Tofu tacos for $4.00, Oak-Roasted Chicken, Pork Carnitas, Chorizo Sweet Potato and Black Bean or the Chicken Taquitos are $5. Guacamole $6. House, Frozen or Skinny Margarita for $6. Well drinks and wines $5.00. (solita Tacos & Margaritas Valencia will be rolling out more specials every Tuesday, for Taco & Tequila Tuesday, offering live music, Frozen Margarita Flights, taco options and more from 3:00 pm to close.) Happy Hour and Reverse Happy Hour every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:15 pm and 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm; Taco Tuesday is every Tuesday from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, with the bar staying open until 12:00 Midnight.

TGI Fridays: “Drink specials all day, every day” includes $3 – $4 beers, cocktails $4 and up.

Vines (in the Hyatt on Town Center Drive): Lounge and patio from 4pm until 7pm daily, $6 bites, $5 bartender specials as well as select wines, $4 domestic beer and $5 craft beer.

The Vu: Everyday 4 to 8pm.

Wokcano Valencia: In the bar and lounge area: Monday 11am until 2am, Tuesday – Thursday 3pm to 7pm and 9pm to 2am, Friday 3pm until 7pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm and 9pm to 2am. Happy Hour food menu, $4 draft beer, $4 Sangria, $4 well drinks, $4 house wine, $5 Sake Bomb.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: In the bar area only Monday 4pm until closing, Tuesday through Friday 4pm until 6:30pm, Saturday 8pm until closing. Happy Hour pizzas $5.50 and 25% off other appetizers.

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill: Happy Hour 3pm until 6pm.

And Outside of SCV:

MAGNOLIA HOUSE: No need to knock, as the door is always open at Magnolia House! Pasadena’s favorite new restaurant and bar introduces Neighborhood Hour every Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Offering discounted wines, well drinks and their signature cocktails, this cozy bungalow has something for everyone on the block. Sip on Bar Manager Colin Shearn’s tasty Cocktail of the Moment from his newly released cocktail menu for only $7.00, or kick back and relax while you enjoy the signature Magnolia House Sangria for $6.00. Pint-loving pedestrians will not be able to resist popping in to try all five craft beer options (at just $5.00 each), including the Craftsman 1903, Heavenly Hefe, Mother Earth Cali’ Creamin’, Santa Barbara Common Ale and Swamis IPA. Pair these budget-friendly beverages with gourmet snacks from Executive Chef Kyu Yi and bite into delicious dishes like Crunchy Ahi Tacos with spicy tuna, avocado crema and radish or Margherita Flatbread ($8.00) topped with spicy tomato, burrata, basil and a cilantro-pistachio pesto. Or get food tipsy off the Drunken Nachos ($7.00) smothered in beer queso sauce. Additionally, guests can dine on Blistered Shishitos ($5.00) served with sweet Thai chili and ponzu sauce, as well as Lebanese Beef Skewers,($6.00) drizzled with tahini yogurt sauce. Do not miss out on this new hotspot, where Neighborhood Houris reinventing Pasadena evenings and making it easy for you (and your wallet)!  Magnolia House is open for Neighborhood Hour Monday through Friday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm; 492 South Lake Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101; 626.584.1126.

RASCAL: The only rule at Rascal, is that there are no rules! This favorite local hotspot on South La Brea Avenue hosts Happy Hour seven days a week. With $6.00 Eats & House Libations available throughout the entire restaurant (not just bar), it is quickly becoming everyone’s favorite pastime. With something for everyone, Rascaloffers traditional beverage choices including cocktails like the Moscow Mule and Margarita, as well as House-Made Red Sangria and the Cold Duck, a sangria topped off with sparkling cava brut. Beer lovers can enjoy pints of the North Cost Scrimshaw Pilsner, while discriminating winos will delight in select red, white and sparkling wines like the 2013 Solar de Estraunza and the 2011 Garnacha Beso de Vino. Executive Chef Andy Lee keeps everyone happy with favorites like Spicy Italian Sausage with blistered red watercress, olive oil and olive tapenade, a classic Burger topped with beer-deglazed caramelized onions, cheddar, arugula, vine-ripened tomato and herb remoulade, as well as Brussels Sprouts sprinkled with smoked bacon, shallots and garlic and drizzled with whole grain mustard sauce. Buttermilk marinated fried chickenis so good, it is served two ways: A Fried Chicken Sandwich, which is stacked with tomato, Napa cabbage and tzatziki and the classic comfort-dish, Fried Chicken & Gravy is smothered with Italian sausage gravy. Non meat-eaters can enjoy a pita bread-packed Vegetable Gyro Sandwich stuffed with potato croquet, tabbouleh, curry hummus, tzatziki and queso fresco. Why let the happy stop there? Rascal wonders the same thing, which is why every Sunday is Sunday Funday, a game night, offering a variety of board games for patrons to play, while sipping on Happy Hour cocktails (at Happy Hour prices) “all night long.” Checkmate! Rascal is open for Happy Hour from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm every Tuesday through Saturday, and 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm every Monday; and Sunday Funday is every Sunday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm; 801 South La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 323.933.3229.

TIPPLE & BRINE: Known for their bountiful bivalve bar of fresh oysters and creative custom cocktails, Tipple & Brine continues to shine and is quickly becoming the gem (or pearl, more appropriately) of Sherman Oaks. Currently presenting a Social Hour every Monday through Friday, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, guests can stop in for gourmet fare and drinks at discounted pricing. Dive in with $5.00 Oyster Shooters and $7.00 house-made classic cocktails, like the Old Fashioned or Moscow Mule crafted with Tito’s Vodka.The beer and wine is more than fine, with $5.00 draft offerings of Firestone IPA, Mama’s Little Yella Pils, Golden Road Hefe, Craftsman 1903 or Dogtown Brown and four wine selections of Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon for just $6.00 per glass. Slurp down fresh Oysters for just $2.00 a piece or a plate of Warm Marinated Olives for only $4.00. Additional menu favorites are occasionally rotated during Social Hour, but generally consist of delectable dishes like Crispy Oysters with sauce gribiche ($7.00), Brussels Sprouts ($5.00) and Mussels & Fries ($7.00). Stop in for some social time and savor some of these select pairings at this Sherman Oaks hotspot!  Tipple & Brine is open for Social Hour every Monday through Friday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm; 14633 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; 818.528.2550.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years.  She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition.  You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

David Lentz Announces New Chef, New Menu at The Hungry Cat Santa Barbara 2015!

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Peter Cham Departs West Bridge in Cambridge and Begins the Year as Chef de Cuisine of Lentz’s Central Coast Location

WHO:

Chef/Owner David Lentz, The Hungry Cat Hollywood, The Hungry Cat Santa Monica Canyon and The Hungry Cat Santa Barbara and Chef de Cuisine Peter Cham, The Hungry Cat Santa Barbara

WHAT:

Chef David Lentz announces big news for 2015 at the Santa Barbara location of The Hungry Cat as he introduces Peter Cham as the restaurant’s new Chef de Cuisine along with some new menu selections beginning January 8, 2015 and a menu revamp launching February 1, 2015.

Cham, who has staged with top culinary talents Michael Tusk at Quince and Jennifer Lorenzo from The Fifth Floor, both in San Francisco, has recently arrived from Massachusetts where he worked under Matthew Gaudet, a 2013 Food & Wine Best New Chef.

Peter Cham was born and raised in Santa Barbara and received his training in the Culinary Arts at San Francisco City College. Cham has worked professionally as a cook since 2008, demonstrating a rapid rise in his career and indicating great promise. General Manager Bob Van der Veer continues to oversee the operation and will ensure that Cham is familiarized with the Santa Barbara community and The Hungry Cat devotees. “Peter brings a sense of professionalism that is welcome and refreshing,” says Van der Veer. “His positive attitude and affable presence will be hard to miss.”

David Lentz states, “We considered a lot of chefs for this position in Santa Barbara and felt that Peter would fit right in at The Hungry Cat. When we tasted his food, it was clear that he shares a similar sensibility towards our style of cooking and that he shares my passion for seafood. He’ll make a great contribution to Santa Barbara.”

In addition to The Hungry Cat’s signature Raw Bar and craft cocktails, new dishes to watch for include Pink Snapper Crudo with Granny Smith Apple, Candied Fennel, Wood Sorrel, Pernod Aioli, Fried Chick Peas and Sambal Vinaigrette; Fried Brussels Sprouts with Gochugaru, Toasted Peanuts and Fish Sauce Caramel; Squid Ink Tagliatelle with Charred Radicchio, Black Garlic Pesto, Tuscan Kale and Boquerones; and Black Cod with Baby Turnips, Broccolini, Sunchokes, Little Neck Clam, and Lemon Grass Dashi. A completely new menu will be unveiled on February 1, 2015. The restaurant will be temporarily closed on Mondays as Lentz and Cham work together during the transition. In the first week of February, The Hungry Cat Santa Barbara will resume Monday operations as well as Weekend Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.

Chef de Cuisine Peter Cham | Photo Credit Robert Van der Veer

Chef de Cuisine Peter Cham | Photo Credit Robert Van der Veer

 

WHEN:

Beginning Thursday, January 8, 2015

Hours: 4 pm for Happy Hour

Dinner: 5:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday

Daily operating hours will resume in February, including brunch

 

WHERE:

The Hungry Cat Santa Barbara

1134 Chapala Street

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.884.4701

WHY:

Chef /Owner David Lentz creates a new American Seafood sensibility, inspired by his Maryland roots, incorporating sustainable, seasonal fish, shellfish and produce into his weekly changing menus. This Santa Barbara location brings it all together with its urban setting, complete with signature raw bar, perfectly mixed artisanal cocktails and camaraderie at the bar and tables.

For further information and full menus at The Hungry Cat, visit www.thehungrycat.com

The Hungry Cat and David Lentz are Social!

Follow The Hungry Cat at @thehungrycat | Follow David Lentz at @ChefDavidLentz

Wine 101: The Happy Hour

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Wine 101: The Happy Hour

Vines NEW Wine List and Happy Hour

Most wine 101ers have experienced a Happy Hour where cocktails and wine are offered at a discounted price during a specific time, like 4-6 p.m. when a bar is not normally crowded. Sometimes inexpensive bar food is offered for free (think tortilla chips under a heat lamp and salsa) or under-sized menu offerings at a lower price.

vines happy hour card nov 2014It’s a great way to save some moola.

It’s a great way to meet up with like-minded pals.

It’s a great way to see which establishments offer more than others. And it’s the best way to get to know a restaurant or bar without making an evening’s commitment.

I’ve been to several. I’ve also got a list of local ones for pals that don’t want to do the research: http://evewine101.com/2014/02/21/scv-happy-hour-list/

One example that I’ll share today is the new Happy Hour at Vines restaurant and Bar in the Valencia Hyatt Regency – because I dig it. They didn’t just rotate in new menu items (here’s my article of their last menu: http://evewine101.com/2014/02/25/eve-wine-101-scoop-new-menu-vines-restaurant-bar-effective-march-15) they also decided to unveil a new wine list (see below) at the same time. Once again, they are successful as they thought out-of-the box in making both changes at the same time.

The other thing I really dig about Vines Happy Hour, besides the prices and selection (see photo of some new yummies) is that I don’t have to stand in a line for food, at Vines it’s ordered and delivered via table service. And that kind of service is usually reserved for dining, not Happy Hour.

So again, the definition of Happy Hour can be anything; I just prefer it to be like this.

The Hearty New Bites

(Every “bite” that I’ve tried has been enough for dinner, but I do like ordering more than one to share with my husband or friends.)

Very savory Angus Beef Sliders come with a nice side of Parmesan fries.

Juicy glazed Chicken wings in a ginger sauce is served up with a spicy Asian slaw.

Every last Calamari with their sundried tomato aioli.

Refreshing Bruschetta with tomatoes, garlic, cheese and a balsamic topping.

The Turkey Avocado Cheese Crisp – it’s a grilled sandwich served with a mini salad that I haven’t tried, must go back!

Chicken Chipotle Potato Taco actually has mashed potato between the two corn tortillas to add an interesting flavor to the chicken, cheese, cabbage…oh my.

Grilled fish Sea Bass tacos have the same mashed potato surprise between the layers.

The Wine List

Vines Wine List Oct 2014-page-001

According to General Manager Barry Prescott, “Every wine has changed, more choices, more wine by the glass.”

IMG_2559FullSizeRender-1FullSizeRenderIMG_2554

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years.  She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition.  You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

34 Years of Doing it Right: Le Chene French Cuisine

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I’ve been revisiting Le Chene a lot lately. Well, to be exact, I’ve been revisiting the bar at Le Chene a lot lately because I found out that their happy hour (4:30-7pm Sunday through Friday) not only included 25% off the bar menu, the Candy Menor Tropical Drink Menu, wines by the glass and by the bottle – from probably the largest wine list in the Santa Clarita Valley – it also included a bar menu that is almost as long as the restaurant menu. And if that wasn’t enough the discount was extended to those that like patio dining.

Bar Menu Tenderloin Tip Béarnaise

Bar Menu Tenderloin Tip Béarnaise

I love patio dining. And I love French food. If you have ever been to Paris you know that most restaurants etch out some sidewalk space for diners. Though the patio is not on the front curb at Le Chene, I’d have to say that a slice of France is delivered when you can sit one story above the gorgeous grounds, and view the trails, flowerbeds and a large working water wheel.

Maybe you’ve brunched or dined there before. I had. But I hadn’t done it at Happy Hour, more like for special occasions.

The Happy Hour allows me to have that same experience every day of the week, except Saturday, because the pricing is amazingly low for exactly the same quality.

What I Got From the Bar Menu

I thought the servings would be, you know, Happy Hours sized. The items I ordered looked just as large as what I had received in the restaurant. So you get a lower-priced bar menu plus the 25% off.

Since discovering this I’ve had quite a few dishes, and brought a few pals who tried some others. Here’s your taste:

The Warm Salmon Salad is served with fresh butter lettuce, vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mushrooms, the biggest capers I’ve ever seen, a thick vinegar and oil based dressing that I cannot even begin to describe, and all topped with a fresh grilled salmon filet. I could barely finish it, and a friend that ordered it could only eat half of hers!

Next I tried Claudia’s Spinach Salad with juicy pears, sweet walnuts and feta cheese. Even this I could barely finish, but I will be ordering both salads again!

Bar Menu Beef Bourguignon

Bar Menu Beef Bourguignon

A pal that ordered the Shrimp Salad had a hard time just getting started as it was beautiful to behold: extra large shrimp, slices of tomatoes, mushrooms all bathed in their signature house dressing.

Another friend tried the Seafood Pasta. (My daughter often orders this one in the dining room so I can vouch that it’s the same size.) Minty green colored homemade fettuccine noodles are only partially hidden by scallops, shrimp, crab and calamari…maybe even other treasures from the sea. And the cream sauce is perfect in taking the dish to the next level.

Bar Menu Crème Caramel

Bar Menu Crème Caramel

One ½ dozen Escargot, with enough garlicky melted butter that an entire basket of bread could be used to dip into, was more than one woman could handle – though it was her dinner! (I helped her out a little, naturally.)

A couple ordered the Crème Caramel. It did not come in a little ramekin dish, nope, it was in a large oval, definitely enough for two, and in their case, the four other people at their table all had a chance to dive into it.

Other signature dishes are also on the bar menu, most less than $20: Crab Cake, Frog Legs Provençale, Stuffed Mushrooms, French Onion Soup, Beef Bourguignon, New York Steak Minute, Norwegian Smoked Salmon, Tenderloin Tip Béarnaise; and desserts, most under $10, included Cheesecake, Peach Melba, Chocolate Mousse, Homemade Ice Cream and sorbets…

And, of course, when the bar menu was too much of a teaser, some people did have the large chalkboard menu brought to their table to make selections. Wasn’t sure what they ordered but their patio table was crowded with a decanter of wine as well…

I asked pals what they thought. Everyone had only positive remarks about the food, the wine, cocktails, the patio and the service. Some made observations that they, like me, had seen Le Chene as a special occasion restaurant, one they admitted to forget when a new restaurant becomes the center of short-lived attention.

Not every restaurant has had, or will have, a 34th birthday in the Santa Clarita Valley, and probably for good reason. So, I’m going back to celebrate in the bar, patio and restaurant of Le Chene. Join me.

(Sign up for their e-newsletters and get a $10 off coupon, I did! http://www.lechene.com/mailing-list.html)

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years.  She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com