Our friend, James Anderson, chats with us about his journey as a bartender and shares with us the recipe of One Door North's customer favorite cocktail called Fireside Tahona.
Fireside Tahona
2 oz Cali Fino Reposado
1 oz passion fire tonic
.5 oz lime
.5 oz honey simple
Top with dried lime, squirt of orange zest
What's the story behind this cocktail?
We wanted to create something that reminds you of sitting by a campfire. The fire tonic gives you that warm feeling, and the passion fruit is cool and refreshing on the back end, sort of like how your back is always cold while sitting next to a big fire.
If you had to pair this cocktail with a dish, what would you pair it with?
I would pair it with the ceviche. the acidity and citrus from the fire tonic complement the dish so well.
What kind of experience can diners expect at One Door North?
It’s a fun and laid-back casual dining experience with an ode to the great outdoors. The unique ambiance matched with the amazing food and service sets the tone for a one of a kind dining experience.
About James Anderson
Are you from San Diego?
No, I was born in Los Angeles, but grew up in St. Louis. Found myself back in California in my mid-twenties. I’ve been in San Diego the past 8 years.
How has your journey been leading up to your role at One Door North?
Until this point, I’ve been searching for something special, something different, something that just catches your eye and imagination. The minute you walk in One Door North it does just that, the copper bar, warm wood, large space, and perfect atmosphere sets the tone for this immersive experience. It’s such a RAD space, I fell in love with it the first time I walked in and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.
How do you feel about the bar scene here in San Diego?
Man, it’s out of this world. There are so many talented people doing awesome things and the creativeness born out of all the competition has created such a surge of innovation that you can now have that WOW experience over a drink almost everywhere you go out.
What's your favorite cocktail on the menu?
Right now I’m digging the Cali old fashioned. Cali Fino Anejo tequila with the orange bitters is so refreshing and the aging done by Cali Fino adds levels to the spirit. The depth of the cocktail is endless; it just keeps getting better with each sip.
Define the perfect cocktail.
Something that puts you in a different place, or has hints of memories that take you back to a certain time. It’s never the same.
What's your favorite drink to make behind the bar?
Scotch, neat! Just kidding. My personal favorite is an old fashioned, it’s a simple yet elegant cocktail.
What's your favorite spirit?
Scotch What is one thing you wish people understood about bartending?
We don’t bartend because we did not want to get a “real job.” I do this because I truly enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories. Everyone is different and has a different story to tell and it’s intriguing to me. Every day I get a new perspective on life and l love that.
What should everyone stock in their home bar?
A good scotch, bourbon, tequila, bitters
What do you do in your spare time when you're not creating cocktails?
Hang with the squad aka my wife and kids.
What's next for you?
Shit…what’s next for anybody?! I’m happy right now and that’s a good thing.