BEDFORD & BURNS BAR
BEVERLY HILLS BAR SERVES BITCHIN’ BEVERAGES & BITES

It’s no secret we’re fans of Beverly Hills’ Bedford & Burns for a first rate meal of American fare in a cozy, comfy setting. But equally impressive is the bar’s cocktails that are reason enough for a visit.

During my first time at Bedford & Burns for dinner, I knew I would be pairing wine with my meal but I started with a cocktail while I waited to be seated. I opted for The Griddle, which is made with Bulleit Rye Bourbon, maple syrup, egg white and a stick of bacon. It is stellar. It is easily one of the best Old Fashioned cocktails you’ll find anywhere. And that sweet stick of bacon is a fine touch.

While the tiny bar, which is tucked in the corner by the entrance, may not be much to look at, it’s almost an afterthought considering how small it is, but consider it a hidden gem in Beverly Hills. With no room at the bar, we sat at a nearby table and were able to enjoy a bevy of wonderful beverages and bites.

After the savory Griddle, we got on the Headless Horseman, a fine mix of Knob Creek Bourbon, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, black walnut bitters, topped with whipped cream and nutmeg. This drink is a holiday party in a glass! It’s a great way to make any hour a happy one.

The Penicillin, made with Monkey Shoulder Scotch, lemon, honey-ginger syrup, and a Laphroaig float, is a really stiff drink that will cure what ails you. It’s intense so beware.

If you’re looking for bar bites, which are essential when you’re bellied up at the bar, the Deviled Eggs with Applewood smoked bacon; the Beef Sliders with gruyere cheese, arugula, caramelized onions, and chipotle aioli; Mac &Cheese with cheddar, gruyere, parmesan and truffle oil; and Lollipop Chips with brussel sprout and kale hybrid deep fried with chipotle aioli are all winners. You can’t go wrong with any of these fine and hearty selections—all of which are truly tasty.

Two more delightful cocktails, not overpowering yet fully satisfying, include the Walking Dead, made with Nolet’s Gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon with a dash of Pernod, and the Aviation, mixed with Sage Gin, Crème de Violette, Maraschino Liquer, lemon and Luxardo cherry.

More cocktails meant more food and the Chicken Meatballs with marinara sauce were filling and fun, and the Moro Bay Crispy Calamari with cocktail sauce and chipotle aioli are a great starter item to share.

We decided to step up our game with our next round of drinks, which included Another Broken Vow, made with Dobel Tequila, pineapple, Benedictine, Antica Vermouth, lemon, and habañero infused Sculpin IPA float. This drink doesn’t fool around and is a great to start your night but be careful if you’re ordering later in the night.

Another fine choice is the Smoke & Salt, a strong blend of Vida Mezcal, Pisco, lemon, simple syrup, egg white, and black salt. I love the creativity and the classic taste this drink offers.

If you’re going to venture off the bar bites menu, you can’t go wrong with one of the entrée pizzas, such as the delicious Wild Mushroom Pizza with white truffle oil, gruyere, and crème fraiche.

With a final round of cocktails to be had before cabbing it back home, we opted for the French Maid, which former bar manager Conner Mitchell who created many of the bar’s signature cocktails wanted to originally call the One Armed Hooker. This one is satisfying mix of Bols Genever, St. Germain, grapefruit, Peychaud’s Bitters with a Prosecco float.

A favorite of the Happy Hour crowd at Bedford & Burns, which is available at the bar and on the patio, is the Spicy Margarita—a killer mix of Maestro Dobel Tequila, peppers, agave, lime and a black salt rim. While I personally stopped drinking margaritas years ago, opting for stiffer less sugary drinks, every once in a while I’ll drink one and I have to say, this Spicy Margarita is so satisfying.

Bedford & Burns in located at 369 North Bedford Drive in Beverly Hills. Open Monday – Saturday 11am to 10:30pm. Call 310-273-8585.