MatrixFillmore GM, Ken Luciano, just got back from Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans... here's his recap. (He's the one with the martini shaker, of course.)
Hosted in New Orleans every July is world's premier cocktail gathering- Tales of the Cocktail. Everyone from Historians, Bartenders, Bar Owners, Brand Ambassadors, to Industry Leaders storm NOLA for a week of Cocktail Mania. Daily hosted seminars, tasting, spirited dinners, parties and meetings- there is something for everyone packed into one long day. I forget to add lunch at the Napoleon House; the much needed refreshing Pimm's Cups, and Muffulettas to refuel the engine.
Being my first year, I felt as if I were attending All-star weekend, except instead of the Home Run Derby, there was the Bartender Breakfast hosted by Audrey Saunders and Simon Ford with bartenders from Pegu Club, Contemporary Cocktails, Death & Co., Milk & Honey, Employees Only, The Varnish, New Orleans Cocktail Co. and The Edison Room. Needless to say I don’t believe anyone left the event thirsty. As I reflect on the week’s events, I am feel very lucky participant from San Francisco. It is always comforting to be home in the bay and feel the camaraderie between bar folks, but to go to another city and be able to feel the same sense of community, and take part in a memorable event, was nothing less than fantastic.
