Pittsburgh’s Fresh Fest Beer Fest Celebrates Black Brewers and Drinkers

From 9 to 11 August, the second annual Fresh Fest Beer Fest will honor black brewers and drinkers. Hosting 28 black-owned breweries, 45 collaborative beers, six musical acts (Nappy Roots included) and 20 food vendors, the fest—taking place at Nova Place in Pittsburgh—is set to celebrate diversity and incredible beer. Brooklyn Brewery’s Garrett Oliver and Uncle Nearest’s Fawn Weaver will be in attendance and the …

Ray’s Embraces the Value of the Dive Bar

NYC nightlife and dining veterans open doors on an easy-to-love space

To swing by spots previously developed by NYC dive bar Ray’s all-star team might make one wonder how they ended up partnering on this particular watering hole. Much attention has gone to the involvement of actor Justin Theroux, but the others involved (including Jon Neidich, Taavo Somer, and Carlos Quirarte) have developed some of the most exciting and design-forward hospitality ventures in the city. From …

Inside Sipsmith’s London Gin Distillery

Mad scientist experimentation blossoms from an international selection of premium botanicals

When setting out to open the first traditional copper pot gin distillery in London in 200 years, Sipsmith founders Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall and historian, author and master distiller Jared Brown quickly learned that their ambitious goal would require sacrifice and perseverance. Blocking their dream was The Gin Act of 1751 that outlawed small distilleries in London to curb crime in the city at …