White Russians in L.A. To Celebrate 15 Years of The Dude Abiding

Mar 6, 2013 — by Caroline on Crack

Cole's White Russian by Caroline on Crack

Cole’s White Russian: Karlsson’s vodka, Cafe Lolita, blended whipped cream.

In celebration of the 15th anniversary of The Big Lebowski today (I feel so old), I thought I’d share some of my favorite White Russians available in L.A. Now, I was never a hard-core fan of the movie featuring everyone’s favorite bathrobed anti-hero but count me the number-one fan of this creamy, coffee concoction.

In fact, the White Russian cocktail was actually what got me started on the road to drinking. It’s what I’d order back in the day at bars like Jones and Smalls (which was in the spot Pour Vous currently resides). Makes sense; after all, according to cocktail historian David Wondrich, “the White Russian was something real alcoholics drank, or beginners.” True and true…although I can stop whenever I like.

Eventually, however, the White Russian was relegated to dive bars and Big Lebowski festivals. It could be made badly. I’ve had it with too much Kahlua and cream and too little vodka. Tummy aches ensued and then I had to stay away from my favorite cocktail with bad experiences overshadowing the good. Fortunately, with the advent of craft cocktails, some of our bartenders around town have updated this classic with uber tasty results.

In honor of the Dude today, go out and enjoy one. Or, if you’re so inclined and have the ingredients at home, try out 320 Main’s “Male Order Bride.”