Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/101724
HOT PROPERTY Hotel California MATTHEW SALINAS IS AT THE HELM OF LEGENDARY BAR 1200 by Breanne DeMore / photos by Jimmy P. W alking into the Sunset Marquis's BAR 1200 in West Hollywood is like walking into an ultra-cool recording studio. The room is small, the lights are dim and the colors are dark and brooding. This place is exclusive—like a-world famous-rock-band-was-just-here-the-night-before-exclusive—and Matthew Salinas is the musicians' bartender. Hidden away just off L.A.'s legendary Sunset Strip, the dapper Sunset Marquis Hotel is frequented by many recognizable names and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year: half a century of notorious Hollywood moments. "There is deinitely a mood about this place," says Salinas. "When the bar is full, the energy is unbelievable. The rock and roll attitude permeates the room." As Salinas casually mentions a few of his regulars, it's clear that these walls, and Salinas, have been witness to some pretty crazy nights. Although a mixology-minded program leads the way here, Salinas is careful to take his unique clientele into consideration. Salinas explains, "We wanted to spice things up a bit, but still keep the energy up. Our goal is to make fresh, simple and fast cocktails so that our guests can get something well thought out, but don't have to wait." Adding to the cool-factor here is Salinas's passion for artisan spirits: "Our guests are always looking to explore new options, and having artisan brands gives me the opportunity to not only introduce a new product to the guest, but also make them feel ahead of the trends—which is very rock and roll." Matthew Salinas, Bar Manager. Rock-Worthy Cocktail Matthew Salinas choses artisan spirits whenever possible and points to the St. George Spirits portfolio as one of his favorites. He notes that their Breaking & Entering Bourbon is a rockin' way to get his guests to think outside the Big Bourbon Box. 36 / the tasting panel / january 2013 The Alta Loma ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ 1½ oz. Breaking & Entering Bourbon ½ oz. simple syrup ½ oz. Cherry Heering Liqueur ½ oz. fresh lemon juice 1 egg white chai spice for topping ◗ Dry shake, add ice and shake again. Pour straight into a Martini glass and top with chai spice.