Sherman Oaks Gets Experiential Rum Bar With Theatrics

A new bar in Sherman Oaks, Gilbert Pérez Bar, opened on Thursday, October 22, directly above its sister establishment, Daisy Margarita Bar. This new venue focuses on Mexican rums and an immersive, theatrical experience, setting it apart from other bars in Southern California, according to Eater Los Angeles.

Helmed by barman Max Reis and business partner Matt Egan, Gilbert Pérez Bar blends a theme park atmosphere with a cocktail lounge. Egan, a director of photography, brings his expertise to the visual effects, which include dramatic lighting, mist, and coordinated video screens. The bar also enforces a strict no-smartphones policy to keep guests focused on the unfolding spectacle.

The bar features over 70 rums from small-batch Mexican producers and draws its name from a 16th-century legend of a soldier named Gil Pérez, who was said to have been magically transported from the Philippines to Mexico City. Guests are taken on a narrative journey through different “portals” during their visit, with special music from Highland Park record shop Pasaporte Records, and a rotating menu of seven cocktails, not all rum-based.

Max Reis’s creations include the Liquid Limpia, made with hoja santa leaves and Oaxacan Alambique Serrano, and a unique Paloma Fizz. Every 45 minutes, the lighting changes, a spiced nut and popcorn mix arrives, and the video screens present a new portal, complete with sound effects like lightning and thunder. A digital split-flap display above the bar announces new teleportations, and a new postcard menu reflects the flavors of the current locale.

Need to know

• Gilbert Pérez Bar is located at 14633 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks.
• It is open Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight.
• Reservations are required via Resy.
• Table reservations are for 90 minutes.

The AKUSO take: This spot sounds like more than just a drink; it's a full escape from reality for 90 minutes. It's for anyone who appreciates a story with their sips and doesn't mind leaving their phone in their pocket.