Hey everyone, Mercy here! I’ve been hearing whispers about a spot in LA that’s mastering the art of the modern lounge with an incredible whiskey focus. As someone who believes a great cocktail and the right atmosphere can turn an ordinary night into something special, I knew I had to check it out. My mission tonight at The Phoenix on 3rd Street is to see if it lives up to the hype. Is it just another trendy bar, or have they truly nailed the balance of craft drinks, elevated American bites, and that perfect, relaxed-but-sophisticated vibe? Let’s find out together.
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Stepping into The Phoenix feels like discovering a hidden gem. Located on West 3rd Street in Los Angeles, it seamlessly blends the relaxed, conversational energy of a neighborhood lounge with the refined craft of a top-tier whiskey bar. The space is moody and inviting, with dark wood, leather accents, and soft lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for a date night or catching up with friends. The heart of the experience is their bar—a stunning display of hundreds of whiskey bottles and a team of bartenders who are true artisans. Their menu is a clever twist on New American fare, offering elevated, shareable plates designed to complement their extensive spirit list. It’s the kind of place where you can geek out over a rare single malt or simply enjoy a perfectly made classic cocktail in a setting that feels both stylish and welcoming.
Let me tell you about the Old Fashioned at The Phoenix. It’s not just a drink; it’s a ritual. The first thing you notice is the weight of the glass, solid and cool in your hand. Then, the aroma hits you—a deep, smoky sweetness from the bourbon, perfectly balanced with the sharp, citrusy zest of the orange peel and the earthy, spicy whisper of Angostura bitters. The first sip is a revelation. It’s smooth, with a rich, caramel-like warmth from the whiskey that’s mellowed just right by a single, perfectly dissolved sugar cube. There’s no harshness, just a complex, lingering finish that makes you want to close your eyes and savor it. It’s the kind of cocktail that commands respect and slows down your evening in the best way possible.
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The presentation is as impeccable as the taste. They serve it in a classic, heavy-bottomed rocks glass. The liquid inside is a beautiful, deep amber-brown, like polished mahogany, catching the low, ambient light of the lounge. Resting on the rim is a thick, vibrant orange slice, its bright citrus oils already mingling with the drink’s aroma. It’s not just a garnish; it’s an integral part of the experience. The first scent as you bring the glass to your lips is that orange, followed by the rich, oaky bourbon. It’s a visually stunning and aromatic prelude to the incredible flavor that follows. This is a cocktail that looks as sophisticated as it tastes.
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their giant, warm Bavarian pretzel. It arrives at the table on a wooden board, golden-brown and glistening with a sheen of salt and butter. It’s impressively large, with that classic, knot-like shape that’s just begging to be torn apart. The exterior has a satisfying, slightly crisp bite that gives way to an incredibly soft, warm, and chewy interior. The coarse salt crystals provide little bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully with the pretzel’s mild, yeasty dough. And let’s not forget the side of whole-grain mustard and beer cheese dip—the mustard adds a sharp, tangy kick, while the cheese is creamy, savory, and utterly addictive. It’s the ultimate shareable, comforting bar snack that pairs magically with their whiskey selection.
A casual, pub-style restaurant with a focus on serving food and drinks.
I luv this trendy area so I’ve been to pretty much every restaurant or bar on 3rd and this place has good everything.
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