Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas has traditionally been a thought of as a drinking Mecca. The Strip obviously has its share of retro-1950s bars, swanky nightclubs, tiki lounges, and skydeck havens, but if you are looking for a good cocktail without all the glitz, head north to the old Vegas downtown. All you will need is to travel to the single block of Fremont St between North Las Vegas Boulevard and South 6th Street. Here you have seven highly-rated bars at your disposal: the fireplace-laden Griffin, the piano bar Don’t Tell Mama, the twin industrial-vibed Vanguard and Therapy, the classy speakeasies Commonwealth and Laundry Room, and the eclectic Tim Burton-esque Park on Fremont. Now, we had the family in tow, and for some odd reason, everything goes in Vegas EXCEPT children in bars (because exposing them to bars is WAY worse than exposing them to the mostly naked showgirls on the walking outside on the strip, right?). Anyway, it was morning, and most places are closed for bunch drinking, except for Park on Fremont, which was our destination anyway because of their misty patio that welcomes both late summer drinks and children.

Pineapple Pump Me Passionately

Ah, love. Since we are featuring the FWL creative minds (or drunks in M.J.’s case!), we thought we’d put up a randy drink for the Lounge post. Now, I know what you are thinking- ‘which M.R. pornographic appellation of the nastiest degree are you guys assaulting us with?’

Essential Liquor #16

#16) Peach Schnapps - Our first true schnapps on the list is a ladies' staple. It is absolutely necessary for the classic girl intoxicators such as the Fuzzy Navel, Sex on the Beach,and the Red Headed Slut. Unlike many of its ilk, peach is a versatile schnapps, just remember that a little goes a long way.

Essential Liquor #6

#6) Blue Curacao - Pronounced cure-a-so, this sugary orange flavored liqueur should be chosen, not by brand, but by color.

Welcome to The Firewater Lounge

In a response to our bar book, Stiff had made a request that I simply couldn’t refuse- list the top 30 essential liquors you need to have in your bar. Believe it or not, it actually was easier than I thought. I stuck to three rules: 1) The average Joe should be able to purchase the booze without taking a second mortgage out on the house, 2) Beer, wine, and champagne are not liquors, 3) Versatility matters.

Now, in teaser style, we are going to give you the first three liquors in this post and then unveil them a liquor at a time until we get to thirty! Each post we’ll give you a new drink that can be made from the growing list of liquors. So empty the change from your couch cushions, get to Woodman’s, and buy…