Cocktails Across America: A Postcard View of Cocktail Culture in the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s

In this debut book, Lapis and Peck-Davis share selections from their impressive collection of vintage bar and restaurant postcards, along with recipes for classic cocktails either created or served at those destinations. The diligent duo serve up page after page of lounges and restaurants across the country along with recipes for classic cocktails that are seeing a resurgence in popularity, such as the Ramos Gin Fizz, Moscow Mule, Aviation, and Hemingway’s beloved daiquiri. Surprise entries include in-house ice skating rinks (paired with the Thin Ice Cocktail, made with absinthe), revolving merry-go-round cocktail bars, the rise of bowling culture, and a Las Vegas saloon that included on its postcard images of an actual atomic blast ( and the Atomic Cocktail). Astute imbibers will appreciate the inclusion of classic venues like L.A.’s long-gone Brown Derby, and New Orleans’ legendary Carousel Lounge, which is still serving drinks. This is an impressive work that deserves a spot on the shelf of cocktail aficionados. (May)