The Rise of Spirit-Themed Bars, Is this Trend Set to Stay?

The term “mixologist” (and now, “beerologist”) may smack of pretension, but the cocktailian trend is here to stay. In Los Angeles, the climate is shifting toward an increasing numbers of bars and restaurants showcasing a specific type of spirit.

A couple of places debuted to packed crowds recently: Newcomer La
Descarga (Rum) and 3-month-old Tar Pit (Rum, but not exclusive). Joining this list are 2 brand-new places from Cedd Moses: Las Perlas (Tequila & Mezcal) and Cana (Rum). Of course, we can’t forget Seven Grand (Whiskey) and Nic’s (Vodka). According to Glenn Gritzer, blogger at The Amateur Enthusiast, a blog devoted to downtown LA, the “specialization piques people's interest, but doesn't necessarily create return visits.” Thus far, these bars have certainly attracted attention, but it will be interesting to see how Cana and Las Perlas fare among the growing number of speakeasies and cocktail-centric bars, not to mention craft brew focused places like The Surly Goat. Is this a thriving model? Will evolution lead to Seven Grand and Tar Pit, a specialization without being exclusively one spirit? Or is it a marketing hook set to lose steam (like last year’s obsession with bacon)? As always, comments welcome. — Yvonne Ip