El Portal Restaurant in Pasadena hosted its 24th Annual Tequila Tasting event on Thursday, showcasing the growth of a tradition that has become a cultural touchstone. The organizer said the event had up to 30 vendors offering 90 different tequilas to about 180 to 190 attendees, exceeding the anticipated 150.
The vibe was energetic and warm, with everyone seeming to know each other. Many attendees were long-time patrons of El Portal who have been coming to their tequila tasting for years, creating a friendly and familiar atmosphere.
What began as an alternative to wine tastings has evolved into a community celebration, coinciding with Mexican Independence Day festivities. The event was from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and transformed the restaurant at 695 E. Green Street into a hub of Mexican culture, El Portal said in an announcement.
Armando Ramirez, co-owner of El Portal, said they were looking forward to people having a great time, enjoying their good food, the good music, and everything.
“That’s what we enjoy,” he said.
The tasting, which returned in 2022 after a three-year pandemic hiatus, has grown significantly over its history. It now includes live music by Los Dose, a dance contest with tequila bottles as prizes, and Mexican hors d’oeuvres (bocadillos).
El Portal claims to have pioneered tequila tastings in Pasadena, focusing on high-quality, often additive-free spirits. Many featured tequilas are part of the restaurant’s regular bar lineup, which boasts over 90 varieties. Many vendors approach El Portal to participate, rather than being sought out by the restaurant.
The tasting has become a reunion for many guests, fostering a sense of community.
“The first thing is, thank you, being grateful,” Ramirez said. “We’re very grateful to all our guest customers. They come in and join us. That’s the number one reason we’re being grateful.”
The tasting event’s evolution reflects broader trends in tequila appreciation and Mexican cultural celebration in Pasadena. El Portal also hosts other cultural celebrations throughout the year, including a Mexican Independence Day event and a Christmas gathering featuring opera singers.
For more information, visit https://www.elportalrestaurant.com/.