John and Chris Bicos, of Bicos Hospitality, have expanded their reign over the Pasadena hospitality scene with their newest venture and first craft cocktail establishment, Magnolia House. Located within a 1912 craftsman bungalow on historic South Lake Avenue, Magnolia House’s cocktail program was developed by critically acclaimed mixologist and certified sommelier, Evan Zimmerman, formerly of Portland’s The Woodsman and Laurelhurst Market. To complement Zimmerman’s inventive cocktail list, Executive Chef Kyu Yi has created a small plate menu, complete with a selection of eclectic bar bites. “Our objective was to create an establishment that had an impressive cocktail program with an equally strong menu,” says John Bicos. Inspired by the past but firmly planted in the present, Magnolia House is upping the cocktail game in Los Angeles.
Chris and John Bicos were brought up in the hospitality industry and have continued to expand the family’s restaurant empire over the years. With no intention of professionally joining the hospitality industry, both boys spent time during college working in their father’s restaurant. However, in 2008 the Bicos brothers co-founded Bicos Hospitality as co-owners and co-operators of The Original Tops, Gus’s BBQ and now Magnolia House. When they began developing the concept of Magnolia House, the Bicos brothers knew that Evan Zimmerman was the only man who could materialize their vision and expectations into an elegant and creative menu. “There was zero hesitation in choosing Evan to lead our cocktail program,” Chris Bicos says. “His creativity and standard of excellence truly impresses us each day and we’re confident that this opening list will set the precedent for all future menus.”
On Magnolia House’s cocktail list, no liquor is left behind. Classic but modern combinations are reflected in drinks such as the Bee Sting with Potato Vodka, Clover Honey, Lemon Juice and Absinthe and the Pina Verde Swizzle with Blanco Tequila, Mezcal, Pineapple, Lime Juice, Cilantro, Mint, Cayenne, Absinthe. Complementing the classics are more modern and ambitious creations such as The Lumberjack’s Breakfast with Blended Islay Scotch, Bonded Applejack, Cardamom, Maple Syrup, Lemon Juice, Egg White, The Italian Fling with Nicaraguan Rum, Sweet Vermouth, Campari, Aromatic Bitters and the Copper Heart with Pisco, Grapefruit Liqueur, Lemon Juice, Cinnamon. Prior to leaving, snag the Night Cap with Coffee Bean Cynar, Dolin Blanc and Fig Bitters.
Magnolia House’s small plate menu has a wide array of dishes that can stand alone for a quick bite or together create a complete meal. Dinner selections include Roasted Beet and Burrata with Dill Pickles Fennel, Wild Arugula, Speck, Sherry Balsamic Vinaigrette; Ahi Sashimi with Ponzu, Smoked Salt, Wasabi Vinaigrette, Crushed Wasabi Peas, Fried Kale; and Shrimp Toast with Herb Salad, Sesame Ginger Aioli. The menu concludes with dessert options Loukoumades (Greek Donuts) with Honey, Cinnamon, Pastachios and Greek Yogurt; and Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding with Salted Caramel, Vanilla Bean Semifreddo, and Toasted Almonds.
Nationally recognized architecture and interior design firm Ralph Gentile Architects drew inspiration from the structure’s rich history to create a modern, yet nostalgic bungalow. Set in a 1912 craftsman bungalow, it has been 102 years since the now Magnolia House property was first occupied. The brick entrance way leads to a black and white chevron bar with brass accents and a large olive tree shades the open bar area. Complete with mix and matched plush couches and a cozy fireplace, the indoor-outdoor cocktail bar manifests a homey atmosphere throughout the split-level space. The lounge’s back gallery wall features a collection of vintage black and white photos and antique knickknacks are placed throughout the historic house.
Magnolia House is located at 492 S Lake Avenue in Pasadena, California and is open Monday- Wednesday from 4:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m., Thursday- Saturday from 4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Happy Hour is offered Monday- Friday from 4:00 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. For more information, please visit www.themaghouse.com or call (626)584-1126. Magnolia House is also on Facebook www.facebook.com/maghousepasadena , Twitter @the_mag_house and Instagram @the_mag_house.
About Magnolia House
John and Chris Bicos, of Bicos Hospitality, expand their reign over the Pasadena hospitality scene with their newest venture, Magnolia House. Located within a 1912 craftsman bungalow on historic South Lake Avenue, Magnolia House is known for its creative and inviting neighborhood vibe. Complete with plush couches and a cozy fireplace, the indoor-outdoor cocktail bar, designed by Ralph Gentile Architects, manifests an approachably chic atmosphere throughout the newly designed space. The craft cocktail menu is led by established mixologist and certified sommelier, Evan Zimmerman, formerly of Portland’s The Woodsman and Laurelhurst Market. To complement Evan’s inventive cocktail list, Executive Chef Kyu Yi has created a small plate menu, complete with a selection of multi-national dishes.
