In the world of Long Beach holiday takeovers—which has now included everything from the over-the-top decorations of The Ordinarie and Angel’s Share to the tiki funk of Bamboo Club and Beachwood Distilling to the throwback vibes of Baby Gee to Whoville happily puking all over the place at Que Sera to Krampus at The Stache bar to…—it is nice to have one that is genuinely warm.
What is no doubt the work of owner Dylan Davis’s wife, Stefani, and head bar manager, Kody Hill, the space is an incredibly un-invasive, warmly holiday-ed out takeover that is not only the space’s most ambitious but cohesive overhaul. The side room has been repainted and re-arranged, feeling more loungey and cozy than storage-y. Each space—the patio, the main bar, the side room—all have distinct vibes for whatever type of holiday cheer you’re feeling.
And the drinks are happily worth exploring thanks to Kody.
As Long Beach becomes the holiday Mecca—led by The Ordinarie—they need to define their holiday decor to fit, well, them.
The thing about Port City’s holiday takeover is that it is fully them. Like their Halloween takeover, they lean into the nautical with their “Nauti or Nice” theme while also keeping the space undoubtedly Port City.
If there is any form of advice as Long Beach clearly becomes the holiday takeover capital of SoCal, it is that spaces need to refrain from mimicking The Ordinarie and make their spaces their own in the holidays—which means leaning into what they are and what they represent. The more distinct your takeover, the more likely you’re to have patrons frequent.
A look into the holiday cocktails at Port City’s Nauti or Nice
Approachable. Downable. Perfect for Port City.
Naughty Elf: rosemary-infused vodka | spiced cranberry-pomegranate | black tea | mandarine liqueur | lemon (served in a souvenir elf boot mug)
Under The Mistletoe: mezcal | guava | cinnamon | aperol | strega | lime
You’re A Mean One: tequila | pineapple | serrano | mint | cilantro | lime
Ya Filthy Animal: jamaican rum | bourbon | passionfruit | grenadine | macadamia nut liqueur | vanilla | lemon
Son Of A Nutcracker: bourbon | pear | five spice | honey | lemon (served warm)
Oh, Snap!: brown butter-washed whiskey | spiced apple | bitters
A Christmas Story Shot: white crème de cacao | Rumple minze
Cookies For Santa Shot: vanilla-infused vodka | cookie butter | Borghetti espresso liqueur | Rumchata
Espresso Martini Tree: espresso martinis (served on nitro and displayed on a festive martini tree)
Port City Tavern is located at 4306 E. Anaheim St.
