As if you need any more reason to linger at Vroman’s bookstore on a Friday night, or even a Tuesday, the popular home of all things literary in Pasadena is adding a wine bar. With a literary theme, of course.
You know the deal—you’re waiting for the movie to begin at Laemmle’s, a book catches your eye, and when you look up again, the movie is already into its Big Reveal. Now, the likelihood of that happening has just increased.
The soon-to-be-hotspot in the Playhouse District—dubbed “1894” to honor the store’s founding year— will feature literature-inspired cocktails, craft beer, wine flights to keep you grounded, and the range of special events the independent bookstore is already known for.
Wine expert Bentley Hale has been brought in to develop the bar’s wine curriculum, and the new establishment will feature glasses of Byron Blatty Wines, Angeleno Wine Company, and Cavaletti Vineyards, among the wide range of grapular offerings.
Look for a local slant to the craft beers, too. The initial draft setup will feature brews from Trustworthy Brewing Company, from Burbank, and Boomtown Brewery, straight outta Downtown LA. Expect to see bottles from around the world also, including gluten-free blends (No, we don’t know. Stop asking.), along with Kambucha and cider.
With a nod to the literary universe Vroman’s lives in, guests will find a Huck Finn mule made with soju and huckleberry tea, a sherry concoction named for Maya Angelou, and a Kipling Colada. Drink all about it.
If we need you, we know where to find you this Friday night. Or Tuesday night.
Vroman’s Bookstore is at 695 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA. (626) 449-5320. Hours are noon-9 p.m. Last seating at 8 p.m.
