In a city where exclusivity reigns, Tequila Don Julio took surprise and delight to another level with an unexpected speakeasy experience—inside an elevator. As part of the celebration, Don Julio partnered with Handshake Speakeasy, one of the World’s Best Bars, and renowned mixologist Charles Joly to bring a luxury cocktail experience to some of LA’s most iconic hotels. From February 28 through March 2, guests at The Maybourne Beverly Hills, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, and The London West Hollywood found themselves stepping into what first seemed like an ordinary elevator—only to be whisked away into an intimate, 1942-inspired cocktail experience.
I visited the London West Hollywood, where the elevator transformed into a hidden bar, complete with soft lighting and a master bartender crafting cocktails mid-ride. Inside, Eric, a bartender from Handshake Speakeasy, was flown in for the event and personally mixing The Class Act, a cocktail made with mint-infused Don Julio 1942, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and milk. Between mixing and pouring, Eric shared that he would also be serving cocktails at Governors Ball, the exclusive after-party of the Academy Awards.
At first sip, The Class Act was unlike any tequila cocktail I’ve had before. Don Julio 1942’s signature smoothness took center stage, with its rich caramel and vanilla notes complemented by the refreshing touch of mint. The lemon juice added just the right amount of brightness, while the milk gave it a silky texture that balanced everything beautifully. The result was a drink that felt indulgent yet refreshing–a toast to Hollywood done right.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the hotels, guests were treated to robot-delivered cocktails, seamlessly blending luxury with futuristic hospitality. With legendary tequila, world-class bartenders, and an experience that turned an everyday moment into something cinematic, Don Julio’s Hollywood takeover was nothing short of iconic.