Straight Up or on the Rocks: A Cultural History of American Drink

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating -- and concise -- history of the cocktail.
Review: William Grimes does a great job summing up the allure of the cocktail in American culture. Too bad the book came out before the big cocktail boom in England during the 90's, or that would have made an excellent chapter. Not just for bartenders or restaurant owners, but the perfect gift for anyone interested in American popular culture!

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating -- and concise -- history of the cocktail.
Review: William Grimes does a great job summing up the allure of the cocktail in American culture. Too bad the book came out before the big cocktail boom in England during the 90's, or that would have made an excellent chapter. Not just for bartenders or restaurant owners, but the perfect gift for anyone interested in American popular culture!

Rating:
Summary: Entertaining and informative.
Review: With an emphasis on the cocktail, Straight Up Or On The Rocks is a solid and entertaining history of drinking in America. Grimes' appreciation for a good cocktail is evident, and while he has his opinions on certain drinks, you understand why he has them. This could be very useful for restuarant and bar professionals. The drink recipe section in the back, while short, is very good.