No fuss. No fluff. Just spirits, bitters, and a touch of sugar. The Old Fashioned cocktail is the original serious cocktail—bold, smooth, and endlessly adaptable. In Los Angeles, it’s a go-to for anyone who wants heritage in their glass but demands a modern twist. Whether you’re in a downtown cigar lounge or a Hollywood Hills villa, the Old Fashioned always delivers.
It’s not just a drink. It’s a statement—timeless, masculine, and unforgettable.
Ingredients The Old Fashioned Cocktail (One Serving)
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 Sugar Cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
- 2–3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange twist (garnish)
- Optional: cherry, lemon peel, or smoked glass
- Ice (large cube preferred)
- Rocks glass
LA Local Tip: Pick up small-batch bourbons like California’s own Redwood Empire or LA-made Broken Barrel at retailers like The Whisky Shop in Beverly Hills or Ramirez Liquor in Boyle Heights. For a showstopper, ask Party Shakers about smoked glass service tableside.
How to Make an Old Fashioned Like a Pro
1. Muddle the sugar and bitters.
In your rocks glass, place one sugar cube and douse it with 2–3 dashes of Angostura bitters. Muddle until dissolved. (Or use ½ tsp of simple syrup if you prefer a smoother texture.)
- Add your whiskey.
Pour in 2 oz of bourbon or rye. Stir gently to mix and slightly dilute. - Add a big ice cube.
The bigger the cube, the slower the melt. This preserves flavor and keeps things classy. - Garnish with orange zest.
Express an orange twist over the glass and drop it in. Want a modern LA twist? Add a charred orange peel or cherry for depth and drama.
Why LA Still Craves the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned never left—it just keeps evolving. LA bartenders love to put a spin on it: smoked versions, tequila swaps, or even fat-washed riffs. It’s the anchor of any luxury bar menu. Best served at:
- Power dinners in Beverly Hills
- Private poker nights in Encino
- Whiskey tastings in Glendale
- Red carpet afterparties in West Hollywood
Its simplicity allows it to be customized to guest preferences, making it a high-class staple for weddings, corporate events, and more. Other drinks are just as good.
FAQs
Is the Old Fashioned strong?
Yes—and proudly so. It’s essentially whiskey dressed in a tuxedo. If you love the spirit itself, this is your drink.
What’s the best whiskey to use?
Party Shakers recommends high-proof bourbons for depth or spicy ryes for bite. We also offer local craft options and premium labels upon request.
Can this be customized for large groups?
Absolutely. We batch Old Fashioneds into flasks, pour tableside, or serve smoked-to-order for dramatic effect. Want a twist? Try a mezcal Old Fashioned with agave syrup for your LA crowd.
Book the Drink That Built the Cocktail World – The Old Fashioned in LA
It’s timeless for a reason. The Old Fashioned adds elegance, depth, and gravitas to any event—served straight up by Party Shakers’ expert mixologists who know how to tell the story behind the sip.
✅ Available in all of Los Angeles County: Culver City, Burbank, Santa Monica, and more
✅ Ask about our “Whiskey Lounge” upgrade: smoked glass domes, vintage bar carts, and custom bitters
✅ Party Shakers offers classic or modern riffs tailored to your guest list
✅ Ideal for executive events, whiskey lovers, and old-school romantics
Book Party Shakers – Serve the Old Fashioned and Let LA’s History Pour Into Your Glass