The best way to learn about wine is to taste wine. That's the thinking behind this relaxing nook just a block from the bustle of Santa Monica's Promenade. (Hint: It's hidden alongside Sushi Roku's blue awnings.) Warm wood accents, earth-toned pendant lamps and a clean, minimal layout set the scene which combines a traditional wine bar concept with the modern Enomatic self-service tasting room...
more
The concept is so cool. I don't usually order wine that I'm so familar with in case I don't like it but at Pourtal that's not an issue. You put money on a card (my date and I shared a $20 card - it was fine for us) and insert the card into the wine machine and it pours 1 ounce of the wine you select. I'm glad I tried different types than I had tasted before. It was great. We didn't have...
more
A bar in Santa Monica for the locals (and the tourists of course). It's chill, relaxed, and non-wine-snobby. My friend and I stopped in for the first time last week for Happy Hour (M-F 4-7pm) and just had a glass of wine, but I saw how the "tasting" part works as well. Next time, I'll try that. You can taste about 35 or so different wines by the ounce. They do have a Sommelier there to tell you...
more
It finally opened. I work in Santa Monica and have waited with great anticipation for Pourtal to open. Didn’t think it would ever happen.
My friends and I went over there one night after work to check it out. We were really amazed at what a nice place it is. The atmosphere was very cozy and comfortable and an easy place to hang out. The woods in the décor were beautiful. I understand the...
more