Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/6221
The MESSAGE P asadena may be famous for the fl ower-covered fl oats that roll through town on January 1 every year, but there's another fl ower that's been making a name for itself in this upscale L. A. area enclave: Magnolia, a speakeasy-style bar and lounge that's become a favorite hangout for the local happy hour crowd. With its combined indoor/out- door space, lush décor and twinkling candlelight, Magnolia oozes hip luxury and boasts an innovative seasonal cocktail menu that's bound to put a smile on your face. From the charmingly named Ooompa Loompa and A Shot of Grimm Reaper, both made with Van Gogh vodka (see page 82), owners—and friends—Kerri Sullivan and Carmine Sabatella strive to give their clients a place to unwind in an intimate atmosphere. The food is equally comforting, with dishes like cornfl ake fried chicken and Sugar's Mac 'N Cheese, baked in a sourdough crust, as standouts on the menu. —Rachel Burkons www.magnoliaonlake.com Carmine Sabatella and Kerri Sullivan, owners of Magnolia in Pasadena, have been keeping the crowds satiated with their popular food and funky cocktails for the past four years. brief encounters Whether THE TASTING PANEL goes to the brand execs or the brands call us, there is an abundance of news to report, from the latest releases to behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the world's most infl uential importers, winemakers, distillers . . . well, you name it. We may not have enough pages in each issue to devote as much attention as we would like to each person whose path we cross, but please note that if it's in the publication, we deem it noteworthy —Meridith May, Publisher & Executive Editor Pasadena's Flower Power P that's been making a name for itself in this upscale L. A. area enclave: Magnolia, a speakeasy-style bar and lounge that's become a favorite hangout for the local happy hour crowd. With its combined indoor/out- door space, lush décor and twinkling candlelight, Magnolia oozes hip luxury and boasts an innovative seasonal cocktail menu that's bound to put a smile on your face. From the charmingly named Ooompa Loompa and A Shot of Grimm Reaper, both made with Van Gogh vodka (see page 82), owners—and friends—Kerri Sullivan and Carmine Sabatella strive to give their clients a place to unwind in an intimate atmosphere. The food is equally comforting, with dishes like cornfl ake fried chicken and Sugar's Mac 'N Cheese, baked in a sourdough crust, as standouts on the menu. Carmine Sabatella and Kerri Sullivan, owners of Magnolia in Pasadena, have been keeping the crowds satiated with their popular food and funky cocktails for the past four years. Pasadena's Flower Power PHOTO: MARIA SCHRIBER A t Santa Monica's shopping mecca, ubër-trendy Fred Se- gal, you're practically ensured an encounter with celebri- ties and the surrounding gaggle of paparazzi, but over the holiday season, all attention was on a charitable cause rather than the latest Hollywood drama. Sponsored by 360 Vodka, the eco-friendly brand that's been making waves with its in- novate Cola and Double Chocolate expressions, Gifts Giving Back was a sustainable shopping event benefi tting Toys for Tots and hosted by actress Rachael Leigh Cook. As shoppers savored the holiday cheer, 360 served up fun cocktails in a gesture that THE TASTING PANEL is certain will bring good things full circle for the brand. At Fred Segal in Santa Monica, 60 Vodka was on hand to spread the holiday spirit with some of their fi nest spirits. A Charitable Turn for 360 vodka PHOTO: ELAINE CHEN-FERNANDEZ 14 / the tasting panel / january–february 2010