Our third Summer Cocktail Camp will be held this Sunday, June 29 at Drop Dead Gorgeous, a brand-new ’70s-inspired disco cocktail lounge in Tempe that “feels like Studio 54 met a modern speakeasy and they decided to throw a velvet-draped party,” bar manager Arlene Magana says. “Think plush seating, gold accents, a shimmering disco ball, and a soundtrack of funky basslines and soulful vocals.” Summer Cocktail Camp attendees can also look forward to tropical cocktails at the vibrant jungle-themed event. We caught up with Magana to talk the summer of the throwback cocktail and DDG’s cocktail program – “a love letter to retro glamour with a modern twist.” For more information and to purchase tickets for future Cocktail Camps this summer, visit tickets.phoenixmag.com.
Tell us about Drop Dead Gorgeous and what kind of experience guests can expect.
It’s a high-energy, high-style hideaway where the cocktails are as bold as the vibe.
Tell us about how you got your start in F&B. What is your favorite part about the industry?
I got my start the way many of us do – by falling in love with the energy of a great service. From the first time I watched a guest’s face light up over a perfectly balanced cocktail, I knew I was hooked. What keeps me here? The people. The camaraderie, the creativity, and the constant evolution of hospitality. There’s nothing like building a team that thrives on collaboration and watching them elevate the guest experience night after night.
Tell us about the cocktail program at Drop Dead Gorgeous.
It’s spirit-forward, playful, and unafraid to push boundaries. You’ll find unexpected ingredients like black sesame orgeat and savory garnishes that challenge the palate while still delivering balance and beauty. It’s not just about what’s in the glass – it’s about the story, the presentation, and the moment it creates.
What’s your favorite current cocktail trend? Your least favorite or one you think is overhyped?
Clarified cocktails. There’s something magical about taking a murky mix and transforming it into a crystal-clear pour that still packs all the flavor. It’s science, art and alchemy in one. Least favorite? Over-garnishing. If your drink needs a full bouquet, a flaming cinnamon stick and a rubber duck to be interesting, maybe it’s time to revisit the build.
In your opinion, what’s the cocktail of the summer?
This summer belongs to a throwback: an old-school white sangria, reimagined with a few sun-soaked upgrades. We’re talking crisp white wine as the base, a splash of peach liqueur for that juicy, stone-fruit sweetness, and a cheeky swap – pisco in place of traditional dark brandy. The result? A sangria that’s light, floral and citrus-kissed. Garnished with frozen peach slices that keep it cool and slowly infuse even more flavor as they melt. Golden hour in a glass.
What do you have planned for Cocktail Camp this Sunday?
This Sunday at Drop Dead Gorgeous, Cocktail Camp takes a walk on the wild side with a jungle-themed disco party. Guests will enjoy an interactive tasting of three to four tropical-inspired cocktails while exploring the craft, story and technique behind each one. The atmosphere will match the theme with vibrant visuals and lively music. To add to the fun, we’re inviting guests to embrace the vibe with themed attire – think animal prints, metallic touches or anything bold and expressive!
