This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Musso & Frank Bartender For 47 Years Says 007 Doesn't Drink Martinis

As you can probably imagine, a guy who's been bartending at a Hollywood institution since the 1960s probably has a lot of great stories. Ruben Rueda has been behind the bar at Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood since 1967. In an interview with VICE Munchies, he talked about the highlights of pouring drinks at the same bar for nearly a half-century.
Rueda recalls serving his share of celebrities, including a now-sober Keith Richards, a Steve McQueen he had to cut off and kick out, and a Charles Bukowski that he used to sometimes give rides home to at the end of the night. He also once kicked out a belligerent 'that Irish actor' a few years back, but didn't mention a name.
He also revealed that a particular James Bond doesn't drink martinis, but rather Crown Royal on the rocks.
After 47 years, Rueda says he plans on sticking around Musso & Frank for the foreseeable future, working his two days a week. So chances are, you might be able to have him mix up something for you. He say he can make most people happy with just two drinks: "One, and the second one. That's it. Three or four and you might get sick. But I try to make everybody happy."
-
Cruise off the highway and hit locally-known spots for some tasty bites.
-
Los Angeles-based restaurant owners rejoice as a new ordinance makes its way to the city council.
-
The new season of LAist Studios' WILD podcast is a fictional rom-com set in Southeast L.A. Diners play a big role in fostering conversation between the shows' two hosts this season. Here are host Erick Galindo's must-visit L.A. diners — whether you like breakfast or not.
-
The new season of LAist Studios' WILD podcast is a fictional rom-com set in Southeast L.A. Donuts play a big role in episode two of the show. Here are some of our favorite, wildly creative, and iconic donut shops in Los Angeles.
-
Cheap Fast Eats, Koreatown After Dark! Asian American Pizza, Hot Cheeto-Encrusted Corn Dogs And MoreCheap Fast Eats visits one of L.A.’s most distinctive neighborhoods for some nighttime bites.
-
How to get the best eggs in town without leaving your yard.