Cocktails from the beaker

Ritzy clubs in Downtown L.A. seem to get all the good stuff: The Edison (ancient power plant turned lounge), The Standard (modern motif with itsy bitsy food proportions), and the Green Door (a scaled-down Palace of Versailles).

Whatever the price, find one that dabbles with "molecular mixology."

This is the avant-garde fusion of technology and drink. The plate of sushi pictured here is actually a combination of various drinks transformed into gel, paper, and paste.

The results of such masterpieces stem from experiments involving the density and viscosity of fluids, and specialized items, such as sous-vide, to bring out certain flavors.

Care to hit the lab?

Here's one mix with basic molecular principles without the heavy lab instruments:

Quantities for the Waylon:

2 ounces Old Forester 100-proof bourbon

3-4 ounces Coca-Cola

Dash of Liquid Smoke

Preserved lemon for garnish

Mix:

1. Add the bourbon to a tall glass filled with ice.

2. Add the Coca-Cola, Liquid Smoke, and stir.

3. Garnish with a slice of preserved lemon and serve.