The Pacific Cocktail Haven is a relatively new bar near San Francisco Union Square which earned a huge reputation in a short time. From its creative Pacific-inspired drinks to its staple Christmas Miracle events, PCH is a unique destination bar that really provides a curated experience. In this episode of The Muddler, our host TJ Bonaventura sits with part-owner, full-time operator, and America’s bartender of the year, Kevin Diedrich to talk about the genesis of Pacific Cocktail Haven, how the magic happens, and how they faced a very unsuspected tragedy. Tune in and get to know this bar’s resilience story, plus join us in a delicious live cocktail tasting!
Jump straight into:
(02:15) - A new haven in the San Francisco bar scene: A renowned beacon for creativity with a Pacific vibe.
(04:14) - The genesis of PCH: Coming up with the Asian Pacific-inspired concept and a memorable positive name for the bar.
(06:45) - A destination bar in Union Square: How Kevin and his team decided on their strategic location between the hotels and the local neighborhood.
(10:06) - Holidays are serious business!: PCH’s every year transformation into an epic wonderland Christmas miracle.
(16:42) - An unsuspected event: A hopeful post-pandemic reopening in February ruined by fire!
(20:21) - Starting from scratch: The soon-to-be rebirth of Pacific Cocktail Haven in a new location.
(24:26) - Live cocktail tasting: Trying some staple drinks from the PHC menu, Thrilla in Manila, Jean-Claude Pandan, and Leeward Negroni.
(38:44) - Last call!: Kevin’s craziest story from back in his bartender days in PCH.
Episode resources
