Bar Keeper in Silver Lake
Lately I have found myself exploring Sunset Junction in Silver Lake. From Reform School to Giant Robot, the area is full of fun places to shop. Last Sunday, we headed to my favorite store of all, Bar Keeper. I must admit I find myself a bit giddy as I walk inside. A large Galliano bottle reminds me of the one my dad proudly displayed on our formica bar when I was a kid. A few months ago I felt lucky enough to find the grooviest of glass trays by Georges Briard. Vintage glasswear co-exist with newer designs like Not Neutral throughout the store. I spoke with Joe, the owner about his beloved store and our shared fondness for Silver Lake.
What inspired you to open Bar Keeper?
I have always been a fan of vintage barware. In my
previous existence, I worked in reality television
making chicken salad out of chicken shit. I was
frustrated with the collaborative process. I read an
article in the Wall Street Journal that stated that
folks coming of age now, missed out on the cocktail
resurgence of the 90's. I took the opportunity to
follow my passion. The leap from "human DOING" to
"human BEING" has taken a while. Life is much nicer.
Why did you choose Sunset Junction?
My wife and I have lived in Silver Lake since 1987 and
have been homeowners since 1993. Sunset Junction is
important to the fibre of Bar Keeper. What I really
sell is a lifestyle. I encourage people to create
their own rituals. The world has become so
homogenized that the difference from community to
community isn't much more than where the location of
the front door to the Starbucks. I firmly believe
that the lack of socialization where people can talk,
and most importantly, listen, is lacking in our lives.
What's your favorite drink?
Vodka. Up. Cold. Very Cold. Simple, clean, and
tasty.
What is your current favorite item in the store?
I prefer small and thin martini glasses. If the glass
is too big, I can't finish it before it gets warm.
I'd rather go back to the shaker and have a watered
down drink than a warm monster of a cocktail.
What events are coming up at Barkeeper?
I bring a Mixologist in to BK the first Friday of
every month for a demonstration. I pushed this
month's gathering to the second Friday due to the 4th
of July holiday. Also, I wanted to monopolize the
"Friday the 13th" theme with the cocktail "El
Diablo"!!!
I'm hosting a fun(d)raiser for a friend who is running
in the Hawaiian marathon supporting Aids research on
the 28th of July. We'll be enjoying Mai Tai's for a
good cause!
Joe Keeper
BAR KEEPER
3910 West Sunset Blvd.
LA, CA. 90029-2242
323.669.1675 phone
323.669.1611 fax
You can enjoy at El Diablo with Joe on Friday night, July 13 from 7:30 to 10:30pm.
Cheers!
