The space that houses Newport Beach’s A Restaurant is a longstanding PCH landmark. When it first opened as The Arches in 1926, the eatery began humbly as a diner and service station. As time passed, the quaint beachside village grew into the luxurious waterfront city that we know now. When two Corona del Mar natives, McG and Jordan Otterbein, took over the restaurant and renamed it in 2008, they believed preserving this slice of Newport’s history would be a key part of their future success. Today the dimly lit dining room and cozy bar exude the perfect blend of speakeasy and upscale steakhouse, recalling an era when gentlemen always held doors for ladies. As homage to their roots and to celebrate the restaurant’s 90th anniversary, the owners are serving a Black Tie Martini. A blend of heritage spirits gussies up this traditional martini: Lillet, the classic Bourdeax aperitif from the Roaring ’20s that was reserved for only the most special celebrations, is mixed with Nolet’s dry gin. Nolet’s, distilled in Holland, adds notes of fresh rose and sweet berries. The cocktail’s citrusy essence comes from a healthy pour of Ketel One Citroen vodka, garnished with a lemon twist. – Jenn Tanaka
90th Anniversary Black Tie Martini
1 oz. Ketel One Citroen vodka
1 oz. Nolet’s gin
1/2 oz. Lillet Blanc
Combine ingredients, stir and serve in a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
A Restaurant, 3334 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Beach, 949.650.6505 :: arestaurantnb.com
