Openings

Kevin Napier’s New Flintridge Proper Boasts ‘The Country’s Largest Selection of Gin’

Of all the gin joints in the world, the best may be in La Canada Flintridge
Of all the gin joints in the world, the best may be in La Canada Flintridge Photo: Flintridge Proper

Kevin Napier, the former Joe’s and Patina Group chef who earlier took command of the executive kitchen position at District following the departure of Kris Morningstar, is grand-opening a new restaurant today called Flintridge Proper, named for the La Cañada Flintridge community which it serves. In addition to Napier’s market-sourced, made-from-scratch takes on U.S. comfort and daily specials in dishes like clam chowder croquettes, bacon bread, pot roast with buttered grits, and crab hash, the restaurant is largely dedicated to a selection of cocktails, mocktails, Cali beer, and wine curated by Blind Barber’s Billy Ray, who is also boasting the “country’s largest selection of gin.”

Indeed, his 190-bottle-strong collection includes rare global finds, some of which date back to 1963. Also cementing his claim to gin supremacy, Ray is making a house “Flintridge Gin,” based on the London-dry style and stuffed with local botanicals like sage and fennel from the surrounding foothills.

Overseen by Gjelina and Laurel hardware designer Sam Marshall, the space (formerly Los Gringos Locos) is split in two, with one side providing a brighter, family-friendly atmosphere, and the other a rustic room that pays homage to the local history of ranches and bridle trails, with a huge horsehead arc framing the bar. Skylights are shared by both divisions, lending a transformative quality when the light shifts throughout the day.

The restaurant, owned by Alchemy Worldwide-founder Brady Caverly and his wife, Mary, intends to provide the well-heeled community with the kind of dining experience and immersive atmosphere residents normally have to drive completely across the city to find. Currently serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can check out Flintridge Proper’s full menus online.

Flintridge Proper, 464 Foothill Blvd. La Cañada Flintridge; 818-790-4888.

Kevin Napier’s New Flintridge Proper Boasts ‘The Country’s Largest Selection of