Shimogamo is known for its unique Japanese cuisine, emphasizing authentic flavors while prioritizing cozy hospitality. With locations in Chandler and Gilbert, the bar provides classic Japanese cocktails curated by beverage manager Peter Tagala. We sat down with Tagala to discuss what guests can expect from the Summer Cocktail Camp at Shimogamo Gilbert this Sunday, June 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. Tickets are still available here.
How did you get your start in the beverage industry?
I started in the beverage industry 20 years ago while still in college. I started at a bar, which opened my eyes to the cocktail beverage industry. I always worked at a restaurant as a dishwasher or a cook, and then I got my start in Pennsylvania at a small restaurant that taught me the basics. Then, I went to New York, where I learned from a more experienced bartender. I started taking bartending very seriously after moving to Arizona in my mid-20s and then worked a few places designing my cocktails. I’ve taken my evolution by reading, learning from social media, personal experiences traveling the world, and checking out different bars in other countries and other programs across the United States.
Tell us about the cocktail program at Shimogamo.
The cocktail program at Shimogamo is unique in that we utilize only Japanese spirits or some type of Japanese element in the signature cocktail program. So, with the cocktails, we incorporate one whose leading spirit is Japanese and two with at least some part of the cordial or house-made element.
What do you have planned for the Cocktail Camp on Sunday?
I look at it almost like a magician, revealing how the trick is done… For this Cocktail Camp, I have arranged four different cocktails, one being a refreshing cocktail as the welcome cocktail and the others being something that seems complicated and can entertain guests but is relatively easy to execute.
What can customers expect while visiting Shimogamo?
We bring in some of the best and freshest ingredients worldwide. We are importing items directly from Japan… we are trying to execute some of the best service standards known in this area of the country, and providing an experience that is both unique and rewarding. People come to us for anything from a casual night out to an anniversary.
What is your favorite cocktail from Shimogamo?
My favorite cocktail is [made with] our Wagyu fat washed whiskey, which is an Old-Fashioned known as our Nishiki Market Light. I designed this cocktail many years ago, and I was given the opportunity to create and perfect a cocktail unique to this area of the nation. I’m very proud of engineering a cocktail that some remark is one of the best Old-Fashioneds they’ve had.
