Smoking Mixology

The slyly named pointo8 night spot in Old Pasadena officially opened last night with an intimate party of insiders, press and well-wishers. Located at the back of redwhite+bluezz, this den of mixology elevates bartending into a spectator sport with its lineup of liquid chefs creating delicious concoctions like Mexican Snow and Devil’s Kiss. This ain’t your Grandfather’s “Jack and Coke.”

“I wanted to create a unique nightlife venue that combines live jazz with a supper club, along with the newest and most exciting trends in cocktails… a new type of entertainment destination.” said André Vener, known in Pasadena for his other ventures redwhite+bluezz, Pasadena Entertainment and Dog Haus.

With just-right jazz thumping in the background behind the conversation, guests lined up to order and watch the mixologists twirl, mix, flip and pour liquid magic. The flair crew is headed up by the talented Tom Howard.

“point08 shares my passion for creating the finest drinks by combining boutique spirits and fresh from the farm ingredients, whether they be recreations of classic cocktails of old, or totally new inventions,” says Howard. “We also have a great selection of spirits, wines and beers available for our guests, as well as some non-alcoholic mixology drinks.”

Backing up the alcoholic alchemy, Executive Chef Gabriel Contreras plates up a tasty selection of  specialty items ranging from Elite California Cheeses, Lobster Corndogs, Yardbird Lettuce Wraps, Caprese Pizza to Petite Prime Burger Bites.

Leaving no sense unattended, point08 also features great Jazz artists performing live five nights a week beginning at 8:00pm, with styles ranging from Jazz, Funk, R&B to Latin and Soul. Jazz at point08 is always free. (However, management notes, “your patronage helps support live music.”)

“Our menu offers  great food and amazing drinks, plus we’ve got the coolest jazz in town,” Vener continues. “Where else can you go to enjoy a three course meal and a revamped Prohibition Era cocktail while listening to live jazz–all for only $35 per person?”

Vener, who along with partners Robert and Denise Zeilstra, are recognized for their involvement in Pasadena’s civic life. As with redwhite+bluezz, point08 is giving back to the  community, working with local charities to raise money for their causes.

“That we can do it through an establishment that is blazing new trails into nightlife only makes it more satisfying” said Zeilstra.

point08 is open Wednesday through Sunday nights from 6:00pm to 1:00am. Its many specials include 2-for-1 on cocktails, food, wine, beer and spirits, allowing guest to mix and match to satisfy their palates in multiple ways–and are available Wednesday through Sunday evenings during Happy Hour (6:00pm-8:00pm) and Nightcap (11:00pm-1:00am), with the addition of Sunday Fun-day’s 2-for-1 special from open to close. The club also holds weekly events such as fun and educational Mixology Masterclass and Charity Give Back Nights.

point08 is located behind redwhite+bluezz at 95 East Green Street, Pasadena. For reservations and information, call point08 at (626) 683-0808 or visit point08 online at point08bar.com.