RUSSIAN ROOM
Tucked away in a corner of the popular Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, Calif., Voda has secured its niche by serving up rare vodka to a high-profile crowd.
After promoting clubs like The Gate, Voila, Tatou and Renaissance, co-owners Tommy Stoilkovich and Mike Garrett decided it was time to open their own. In addition to Voda, the two also own the ultrahip Lounge 217, which is located around the corner from Voda.
Voda is an upscale bar featuring exotic vodkas such as Monopolowa from Austria, Zubrowka from Poland (bottle cured with buffalo grass) and Black Death from Belgium. Stoilkovich said that the bar, which is designed as a modern speakeasy, deliberately keeps a low profile. It does not have a sign, address or light.
But it does feature distressed leather booths, a mahogany bar and flagstone walls, which create the feel of a den.
Voda’s menu offers everything with exotic garnishes such as edible flowers, Godiva chocolates and crystallized ginger. Martinis are served in custom martini shakers, and Russian caviar is displayed on a flowered ice block.
Stoilkovich said that the bar’s menu is appetizer heavy and entree light.
Appetizers range from cheese fondue to shrimp martinis to lettuce cups with spicy grilled chicken.
Voda is located at 1449 Second Street next to the Hotel Carmel.