TUPPER & REED
2271 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA
Do you want another Paloma? it’s Friday.
It’s Friday night in Berkeley, and my taste buds say, Paloma. For those of you who are not familiar, the Paloma cocktail is the margarita’s bitter-sweet cousin, a classic cocktail made with tequila, lime, and squirt Grapefruit soda and salt-rimmed. That’s right, originally speaking Paloma’s secret ingredient is a can of Squirt. There’s been a lot of controversy on who originally invented the Paloma, theirs even fake Wikipedia embellishments that speak of a love story gone sour to further confusion. Based on research from others who scoured dusty old books for recipes, the first know written acknowledgment to the Paloma is in Difford’s Guide, which states it was created by the legendary Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner, and bartender of La Capilla (The Chapel) in Tequila, Mexico in the 50’s. What also holds is that Squirt was introduced to Mexico In the ’50s as well. But when Don Javier was asked if he came up with the drink, he denies it was his invention. Making one of Tequila's most popular cocktails origins unknown.
In the modern bar era, you should be able to find a Paloma at any establishment, and everyone’s got their take, from fresh Grapefruit juice to adding a little jalapeño spice. I can think of a handful of bars, but tonight I didn’t want to leave it up to chance, this was a job for an expert, and Tupper & Reed has a track record of never failing when it comes to delicate matters like this.
In 1925, architect William Yelland designed the Tupper & Reed building for the music store of John C. Tupper and Lawrence Reed. For the next 80 years, Tupper & Reed operated their store - which at times served as a restaurant, concert venue, and artistic community space. Today, the music store is long gone, only its ghost remains in the musical artifact that is furnished in this unique, gothic, urban cathedral. Here lies a hidden gem, simply called Tupper & Reed and tonight I’m on a mission.
The place is lively enough, but not too crowded, so I make my way to the bar. Without any delay, I was sipping on my desired beverage, content and not disappointed it wasn’t made with Squirt. Tupper & Reed is a cocktail bar and the first rule to be able to call yourself a cocktail bar is that you serve fresh juice. I’m not a health nut, but I would have to say fresh grapefruit juice & soda has to be better for the body than a can of Squirt, but I’m no snob. What’s great about the Paloma cocktail, is its simplicity, a cocktail that rings all the flavor bells (bitter, sweet & tart) when it comes to taste. It’s delicious! and when asked, “It’s Friday, do you want another Paloma?” I could only say Yes.
Tupper & Reed sets the mood for a good night out, a dimly lit bar stages the perfect film noir backdrop in this fine Cocktailing Establishment. A polished wood bar, with seating all around. In the back, you’ll find a table for a game of billiards and there’s a small outdoor patio for fresh air. Originally a house for music, Tupper & Reed maintains that eclectic nature by featuring laid back live music on Wednesdays & served chilled DJ’s on Friday nights.
