Quartz, a recently opened cocktail bar in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, presents a unique and immersive experience centered around the concept of birthstones. More than simply a bar, Quartz aims to be a “spectacular oasis” and a “grand adventure of the senses,” offering patrons a connection to the symbolism and characteristics associated with their individual birthstones through expertly crafted cocktails. The establishment features two distinct bar areas: a walk-in front bar and a reservation-only “Cave,” each offering a different menu and ambiance. This novel approach to mixology draws inspiration from diverse sources, including the aesthetics of desert landscapes and even the fictional Mos Eisley Cantina from Star Wars.
A Concept Rooted in Gemstone Lore
The core concept of Quartz revolves around the twelve precious birthstones and their corresponding months. The bar’s main menu boasts twelve cocktails, each inspired by a specific birthstone, offering a tangible and flavorful representation of these gems. This approach moves beyond traditional cocktail themes, providing a unique and personalized experience for customers. The bar’s design further reinforces this theme, with the “Cave” area specifically designed to evoke the feeling of stepping into a “gem cave,” complete with mirrored booths and a mesmerizing atmosphere.
The Two Faces of Quartz: Front Bar and The Cave
Quartz operates as two distinct bar concepts within a single 2,000 square-foot space. The front bar is designed for accessibility, offering walk-in service and simpler, more affordable cocktails. This area draws inspiration from the tangible components of the desert, specifically rocks, and directly links cocktails to the birthstone calendar. In contrast, “The Cave” is a more exclusive, reservation-only experience. This secluded area features private booths and an exclusive menu inspired by deserts around the world, exploring the histories, cultures, and animals associated with these arid landscapes. Reservations are prepaid and provide a 90-minute immersive experience. The Cave’s offerings are characterized by premium spirits, delicate glassware, elaborate presentations, and creative, esoteric garnishes, including regional spirits and teas. Drinks are even finished tableside with a flourish, adding to the experiential nature of the space.
Cocktail Creation: A Playful Interpretation of Desert and Gemstone Characteristics
The beverage program at Quartz is the result of collaboration between Paul Waxman, Beverage Director for Instrumental Hospitality (IH), and Max Berlin, an award-winning bartender from Glai Baan. Their approach is described as “playful,” focusing on expressing the unique characteristics of both deserts and birthstones through flavor and presentation. For example, the April cocktail, representing the diamond, deviates from a literal interpretation of the gem’s brilliance. Instead, it draws inspiration from the song “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds,” incorporating flavors like tangerine, marshmallow, and marmalade, alongside “diamond-filtered vodka.” This demonstrates a commitment to creative interpretation and a willingness to move beyond conventional associations. The menu as a whole aims to capture the essence of deserts “from Arizona to Antarctica,” showcasing a diverse range of flavors and influences.
Location and Accessibility
Quartz is strategically located in downtown Phoenix, on Van Buren Street and Fourth Avenue, near other popular establishments like Gus’s Fried Chicken and State 48 Brewery. This central location contributes to its accessibility and positions it within a vibrant entertainment district. The front bar operates on a walk-in basis, making it convenient for spontaneous visits. However, access to “The Cave” requires prepaid reservations, ensuring a more intimate and controlled experience. Drinks are priced between $14 and $17, reflecting the quality of ingredients and the artistry of the cocktail creation process.
Inspiration and Design Influences
The creation of Quartz was influenced by a desire to create a unique and immersive bar experience. Chuckie Duff, co-owner of several other Phoenix-area establishments, drew inspiration from the Mos Eisley Cantina in Star Wars, envisioning a space where people could escape and connect in a neutral and fun environment. This influence is evident in the bar’s overall atmosphere and its emphasis on creating a sense of adventure and discovery. The design aims to be a welcoming space for a diverse clientele, offering both a casual front bar and a more exclusive, intimate experience in “The Cave.”
A New Addition to Phoenix’s Vibrant Bar Scene
Quartz joins a thriving bar scene in the Phoenix metropolitan area, known for its innovative and immersive concepts. The bar’s unique focus on birthstones and its commitment to experiential mixology set it apart from other establishments. It represents a growing trend towards bars that offer more than just drinks, providing guests with a complete sensory experience. The opening of Quartz is part of a broader wave of new and exciting dining and entertainment options in downtown Phoenix, contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a cultural destination.