The Wolves DTLA: Where History Meets Mixology Magic
Discover the Charm of The Wolves DTLA
A dive into the mystical streets of downtown Los Angeles, isn't complete without a visit to The Wolves. It’s an establishment that does far more than just pour a decent drink; it crafts an all-encompassing experience, teetering on the edge of another era while effortlessly grounding you in the here and now. And if you ask us, that’s the good stuff.
At first glance, The Wolves is a bar. But let’s be clear: calling it just a bar would be akin to calling LA merely a city. It is a sequestered corner of the past that's sprung alive amidst modern concrete and neon, where every square inch oozes the kind of nuanced, gritty sophistication that comes with age. The spot resides in a century-old building that has been resurrected to its original glory, effortlessly wrapping the bygone Victorian era and Prohibition-style speakeasies around a modern clientele.
As you step inside, it’s hard to ignore the detailing – reminiscent of a Parisian salon, yet unabashedly LA. The stained glass, the mahogany woodwork, the plush velvet seating – it's intoxicating before you even hit the bar.
And the bar, oh the bar, is where The Wolves shines. Partners Isaac Mejia and Al Almeida don’t do things half-measure here. They have assembled a team of true artisans, who painstakingly craft their own bitters, tonics, and even liquors in-house. A rotating menu, driven by local and seasonal ingredients, pays homage to the ethos of sustainability.
Crafting Personal Experiences in Every Pour
But it's not just about what's being mixed and poured; it's about who's doing it. These bartenders - or should I say, alchemists - have a flair for storytelling, taking you on an uncharted journey with each pour. Nathan McCullough, Jason Yu and Carey Kurisu are names you should know by now. They don’t just serve drinks; they serve experiences, each one a little different, each one a little personal. Just like the city outside its doors.
Approachable and Drinkable Cocktails
On this visit, we had the privilege of getting a sneak peek of the latest creations by Nathan McCullough, the talented head bartender at Wolves DTLA. Nathan, renowned for his innovative and approachable cocktail style with a culinary twist, has crafted a series of new cocktails for their upcoming menu. He aptly described this menu as a “rollercoaster of flavors”, and after indulging in a tasting of these concoctions, it became evident that this was no exaggeration.
Old Fashioned. A classic, reimagined with truffle-infused bourbon, a butter wash, and Angostura bitters. This drink delivers decadence and simplicity in the same sip.
Harbinger of Fun. A bubbly concoction of vodka, strawberry, rose, and pistachio, with a lime finish. As playful as its name suggests, it’s your passport to a good time.
19th Century. The comfort of bourbon meets banana, cacao, Lillet Rouge, and a sassy hint of habanero. It's a trip back in time, with a little kick to remind you it's still 2023.
Red Hook. Bourbon, blackberry, rosemary, Punt e Mes and maraschino liqueur. A sip of this and you are waterfront in Brooklyn, basking in the late afternoon sun.
In addition to these cocktails we sampled, a few noteworthy creations on the menu instantly grabbed our attention. The Agua Buena, skillfully crafted with mezcal, shrimp, and cucumber, stood out as a delightful combination of flavors. Another intriguing option, the Answered Prayer, blended gin with asparagus and Greek yogurt, offering a unique and tantalizing taste experience.
Additionally, the Skin Deep, a masterful blend of gin, vodka, salmon skin, and black garlic, intrigued the senses with its intriguing combination of ingredients. For a comprehensive look at the full menu, feel free to explore it here.
Did we forget to mention the burger is pretty amazing? It's a definite must try. The food here mirrors the quality and imagination of the cocktails, rounding out the gastronomic experience. They’ve got you covered whether you want something to munch on as you sip your truffle old fashioned, or if you're leaning into a full-blown feast.
Historic Elegance Meets Modern Mixology
The Wolves is an experience, a time capsule, an homage to a forgotten past, and a nod to the city's future. It's more than just a place to drown your sorrows or celebrate your victories; it's a love letter to Los Angeles, a testament to its history, and a reflection of its ever-evolving identity.
So, here’s my advice: next time you're wandering the City of Angels, take a detour to The Wolves DTLA. It's not just about having a drink, it's about stepping into a slice of LA's past while toasting to its future.
As Anthony Bourdain would say, “Your body is not a temple, it's an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.”
Bonus Points: If you are looking to make a night out of it, The Wolves is walking distance to The Varnish, Ace Hotel Rooftop, Edison, Broken Shaker and Death & Co.