THE BOOZE BROTHERS

Two cool kids are out to change up the drinks biz in LA.

“People are drinking better now,” says Talmadge Lowe, owner of Highland Park’s boutique bar catering operation Pharmacie and one half of Hi-Lo, the biggest thing to hit Culver City since Platform. It’s the modern man and woman’s upgrade to the neighborhood bodega, conceived by Lowe and business partner Chris Harris in response to a collective desire to buy the latest craft booze, bar essentials, and specialty items in one cool, curated space.

Hi-Lo sells cult IPAs alongside Modelo, small-batch whiskeys, and Jeni’s ice cream; offers tastings, stocking services for home bars, and specialty clubs in which whiskey or craft beer lovers can stay educated about the industry and get up-to-the-minute news about seasonal or rare items coming into stock; and customizes gift boxes with cocktail ingredients, recipes, and beautiful packaging.

The plan is to spread the concept far and wide, thanks in part to support from Drybar investors experienced in that area. New for summer: a freestanding bar and tasting tap, where “we can truly introduce our customers to what we offer, and further support local breweries and winemakers— building a community!” says Lowe. “We will be a hub for people who want to try new things.” What’s more, you can charge it all to a house account… like a new-fashioned Cheers. We’ll drink to that. 8582 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 424298-8443; hiloliquor.com

Where everybody knows your name: The old-school liquor store is being updated by Hi-Lo cofounders Chris Harris (top, left) and Talmadge Lowe (top, right), whose signature red flagship in Culver City’s arts district offers up (below, from left)...