Thunderbolt Claim this business

Varun Mehtaon Google

5 months ago

I had been really excited to visit Thunderbolt after hearing all the accolades and attention they'd garnered from institutions like North America's 50 Best, so when I arrived to an unassuming little spot with no host at the door in a neighborhood that I (an LA visitor) didn't really recognize, I thought for a moment I was in the wrong place. That theory was thoroughly debunked. Thunderbolt was wonderfully in between the casual camraderie of a neighborhood bar and the high-level technique and excellence of the famous bars that neighbor it on the 50 Best lists. The drinks that I had were all extremely well balanced, which is not easy when you're also creating experimental techniques like using clarified tomato water for dilution in your martinis. Bartenders Nicki and Frank were so awesome. Nicki especially managed to effortlessly attend to the 12 or so patrons at the bar before Frank clocked in, and somehow still had time to explain the history of Madeira to me and to advise on which drinks would hit the hardest. Nicki's drink "Wood Wide Web" genuinely might be my favorite cocktail I've had in the last 12 months. Must order!! People say it all the time but seriously, the hospitality on display was above and beyond. Reflecting on the care and service and love they had shown me that night made me feel genuinely emotional as I walked into the waiting night. Or maybe that last glass of Madeira hit harder that I thought.

Linda McLoonon Google

6 months ago

Craft cocktail bars come in all styles. Those of us who like craft cocktails can be pretty eclectic in our choices. Thunderbolt is one of those places that is not for everybody. While most of the cocktails are rifts on classics, they are pretty far out there on the experimental formulation department. I will use one as my example. The first cocktail I had was called Liquid Picnic. They describe it as their "signature gin martini"; besides the usual London dry gin and vermouth it has clarified tomato water, rosemary, and black pepper. Did it taste like tomatoes? Only a slight after note. The main taste profile was herbal. As this illustrates, these drink are not for everyone. My husband tried the "fugwaa falsetto". Its main alcohol was shochu and rum. However, it also contained bitter melon, manzanilla, suze, and was dusted with some type of orange powder. It was actually quite lovely and approachable. The bartenders are very knowledgeable and happy to discuss details. They will even give you a taste of one, as many of their cocktails are batched. The only food we had were the fries, but they were nice and crispy. This place is an adventure in cocktails. If you drink vodka and soda, this is not your place.

Lettyon Google

6 months ago

I spent an evening at Thunderbolt with friends and it was excellent. They have a very extensive cocktail list plus beer and wine too. There was really something for everyone! I was also excited to try their food as they have quite a few gluten free options on the menu. I had the fried green tomatoes and was very impressed! Thanks for the great food, drinks and service!

Sophia Don Google

6 months ago

The drinks are absolutely worth the top 50 ranking. Chef Jonathan is great and the chicken biscuit is so yummy. The bartender, Tom, was very friendly and gave great service and was very knowledgeable and skilled for all the cocktails

Anthony Cortese Jr.on Google

a month ago

Whether it’s date night or just a few friends getting together. This place doesn’t disappoint! Only grabbed a few small bites (Caesar & Fried Green Tomatoes), would get the Caesar again for sure. The cocktails are the real deal and what this place is known for. The mixologist knows what they’re doing! Highly recommended trying a drink that you wouldn’t normally order but peaks your interest. Enjoy!