Westbound Has Been Transformed Into Miracle on Santa Fe in DTLA

Westbound in Los Angeles has been made over into a winter wonderland and is dubbed Miracle on Santa Fe: New York City isn’t the only place getting into the holiday pop-up bar game. West Coast (it’s the West Coast counterpart of Manhattan pop-up Miracle on 9th Street) and the gals from A Cocktail of Two Cities checked the place out for a #thirstyLA takeover.

The Westbound team includes Owner Sarah Meade and Head Bartender Dee Ann Quinones partnered with Greg Boehm and Manager Joann Spiegel of Mace for the L.A.-based Miracle, which is one of 30. The cocktail list was done by the one and only, Nico de Soto for all Miracle locations around the globe. Check out their entire experience below and get there for a jingle bell rocking time before it ends on Saturday, December 31.

A Cocktail of Two Cities Heads To Miracle on Santa Fe

With an upscale-casual vibe, this lovely venue boasts winter perks that are otherwise foreign to Los Angeles. For instance, snowfall on the patio and holiday decorations that would make even the Griswolds jealous.

We got an early start and arrived as they opened at 5pm. We were greeted warmly and walked to the bar, and let me tell you, it didn’t feel like any bar we’ve ever strolled into. There wasn’t a single detail not to be admired. With walls layered in wrapping paper and tinsel, and garland lining just about every surface, you’ll have to remind yourself you’re not at the North Pole. Down to the intricate holiday-themed cocktails served in kitschy glasses, not a beat was skipped. (The large copper gnome stole the show, of course.)

We pulled up a seat at the bar and our bartender Dee was as warm and cheery as the atmosphere around her. I mean, how could you not be full of cheer in this place? Behind her, an embroidered stocking is strung for each bartender. Atop the bar, a two-foot tall menorah. We continued to admire our surroundings and chatted for a bit, then got down to business: the cocktail list. As Dee took great pride in every drink with a smile spread across her face, she mixed up some concoctions for us that were too good not to share.

Old Fashioned Snowball Ice Cube at Westbound Los Angeles

We started with a Snowball Old Fashioned, a classic with a twist of added triple spiced syrup, Becherovka, and you guessed it, an actual “snowball.” The best part of this boozy treat was the frosty kiss on your nose that came with every sip of your drink.

Brazen Blitzen Miracle on Sante Fe Downtown Los Angeles

Next we enjoyed the Brazen Blitzen. Served tall, this lighter, more refreshing libation was well balanced with main components of Bombay London Dry Gin, pine and lime syrups, and a garnish of an actual pine sprig.

We were treated next to an off the menu delight called the Snow Blow. This popular cocktail consisted of house made Jingle Ball Nog with an extra shot of cinnamon bourbon, playfully called a Naughty Shot. This tasty joy was rich and creamy with a warm kick, and made us forget all about the chilly weather outside.

Driedel Cocktail at Miracle on Sante Fe Los Angeles

After we indulged, we made our way under hundreds of tiny blue lights onto the snow filled patio. Complete with a fire pit to combat the cold and holiday films played silently behind the chatter of the evening, a game of Manischewitz Punch Pong was being played over caroling and joyful conversation.

Overall, Miracle on Santa Fe was an extremely unique and memorable holiday experience. If we can pose any advice, it’s to get there early for a front row seat to all that this gem has to offer. The bar fills up quickly! If you desire something more intimate, we suggest a booth. Also since it’s the season to be jolly and all, why not break out your best holiday sweater or cocktail dress and get festive!

However you spend your time at A Miracle on Santa Fe, every moment will be a great moment. With something for everyone, a full menu not to be ignored, and an experience you really can’t replicate, this pop-up should be on everyone’s list of things to do before the big bearded guy comes to town and it’s gone until next year.

Miracle on Santa Fe at Westbound details

300 S. Santa Fe Ave. N., Los Angeles, 213-262-9291, www.westbounddtla.com

Connect socially: @westbounddtla

Open until December 31st; Tuesday-Saturday 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sunday 5 p.m.-midnight; closed Mondays.

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