Mixology Report: Joe’s Lady Stardust
Deborah Schoeneman
April 21, 2008
S. Hector Bury, bartender at Joe's Restaurant, likes to name his cocktails after David Bowie songs. Rightly enough, his “Lady Stardust” seems like a song in a glass—one popular on the radio during summertime, like Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love.” The combination of top-shelf champagne and fresh citrus makes for a light, crisp cocktail that's deceptively light. Use it as a chaser between "strong" drinks at your peril. (I did, and I have the hangover to prove it.)
The first sip is a little sweet, then it mellows out to something all too palatable. Lady Stardust seems like West Side of Los Angeles’ answer to the Cipriani bellini: a perfect party treat, or a way to start an evening. Or nightcap! You can’t go wrong. And it’s not too metrosexual for a straight guy (if he’s on a date). Served chilled, it’s particularly refreshing after a hot beach day, so the time is now. Or go for the “Jean Genie” (Ketel One Citron, Tuaca, and sweet lemon) or, if you’re champagne-averse, the “Moonage Daydream” (St. Germain elderflower liqueur, Ketel One Citron vodka, pineapple, and lime). Joe’s is a beloved Venice hangout; the décor may seem a bit stuffy or stale, but the food is among California’s finest, served by some of the nicest semi-employed actors in the business. It’s best to go during the week to avoid crowds. And that’s the only time you can eat at the bar anyway.
Joe’s Lady Stardust
• 1/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/4 oz lime juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 1 1/2 oz Grey Goose Pear vodka
Mix all in a pint glass. Add ice to 3/4 full. Fill to top of ice with equal parts 7-Up and soda. Shake lightly 2 or 3 times. Pour in a Collins glass; garnish with lemon wedge. $10.
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