Drink of the Week!

Koots recently celebrated its 49th Anniversary as one of the most famous — and infamous — landmarks in the 49th State! Let’s face it, Koots is a classic. The establishment has packed a lot of history into those almost five decades. With humble beginnings as a neighborhood watering hole that happened to have a live piano bar, to becoming a premier entertainment complex seven nights a week, the Alaskan-themed bar has been host to a lot of talent on its stages. To keep the customers happy, it is also required to have a lot of talent behind the bar, as well.

Chilkoot Charlie’s opened its doors on January 1st, 1970. Located in what had once been The Alibi Club, the location was only as large as what is now called “South Long Bar”. Named after a fictional character created by radio personality Ruben Gaines, founder Mike Gordon promised that he would triple the gross sales within a year of opening. The timing was right as the oil boom started and Anchorage started to grow. Over the years, Koots has grown as well, and now contains three stages, three dance floors and 10 bars, with an 11th open in the summertime. The walls are filled with newspaper and magazine clippings, signed poster and band memorabilia, and even antique beer cans. Each walk through the location will reveal a little bit more history including the upstairs Russian walk, and the magazine layout from the year 2000 when Playboy named Koots the number one bar in America.

With the vast number of bars located in the building, there is a requirement for several bartenders to take on the responsibility of making cocktails for the patrons. Only a few of the bars have the same number of taps that are located in the main areas, but there are some drinks that you can get anywhere you go. Mixed cocktails and shots can be standard at times, with some locations having a house recipe, or their own twist. Well, the motto of Koot’s these days is “Drink. Different.” and so even the classics are done uniquely.

There has been an underground contest brewing among the bartenders at Koot’s to decide who makes the best Kamikaze shot. By some accounts, this vodka-based libation has been around for longer than the bar itself, with the origins being traced back to post World War II stories. Others say it was created in the disco era of the 70’s which would be perfect given the origin story of Koot’s itself. Regardless it is not a difficult drink to create, but the proper mix is crucial. The ingredients and process of creation make a refreshing sweet and sour treat, and over the years, variations have popped up using the additions of cranberry juice, liqueurs, and fruits. The classic cocktail is always a mix of vodka, lime juice, and triple sec, but from there it is up to each bartender. The use of fresh lime juice over bottled, what type of vodka, and how long it is shaken can all affect the taste just slightly. These differences have created the friendly competition.

Now it is up to the customers to decide. Koots would like to know who they think makes the best Kamikaze out of the staff. You may have to stop by more than once to really decide, but that’s OK. Drop in on a day shift and see J.J. or Sandy, who always have cold beer, shots, and are more than happy to make sure that you have your favorite game on the TVs in South Long where it all began. Wednesday through Thursday nights hit up the recreation of the historical Birdhouse bar and have a couple with Natalie, Keely, or Julia, then head out to watch the band or comedy and try a sampling from Bart, Kelly or Bree. If you need something to cool you off from a night of dancing hit the Ice Bar and ask Amy to show you what she has to offer. Marcie, Paddy, and Jeff can help you out in the Swing Bar, and you can even ask for this shot to become a cocktail in a martini glass. Of course, you could always see if Ben and Justin on South Long at night can mix better than Michelle, especially since she is on vacation and will be behind in votes by the time she comes home. Bonus points if you can find the pictures of this author on that bar top. Once you have decided, send your votes to promo@koots.com and help the staff crown the Kamikaze King or Queen!

Kamikaze Shot

1-part vodka

1-part lime juice

1-part Triple Sec Liqueur

Shake vigorously and strain into chilled glass