Inside Copa d’Oro

Bartender Angus McShane serves one of Copa d’Oro’s simpler cocktails from the market menu. Many of the drinks at the relaxed lounge feature fresh herbs, fruits and exotic spirits -- all created by expert mixologists.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Bartender/mixologist Vincenzio Marianella puts the finishing touches on his cocktail creation at Copa d’Oro. Marianella goes to the farmers market in Santa Monica to pick the freshest fruits and vegetables for his drinks, which cost between $8 and $17.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Copa d’Oro bartender Angus McShane checks on his drinks -- and customers-- during the early evening hours of an opening night party last month at the Santa Monica lounge.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Bartender/mixologist Vincenzio Marianella strains one of his cocktail creations as he pours at Copa d’Oro.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

The after-dinner crowd lines the bar at Copa d’Oro on its second night opening.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Bartender/mixologist Vincenzio Marianella shakes one of his cocktail creations.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Bartenders/mixologists Angus McShane,left, and Vincenzio Marianella work the bar.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Low light and quiet (but still hip) music fill the bar at Copa d’Oro. “I commisioned an architect by the name of George Kelly,” said Copa d’Oro owner Johnathan Chu. So what inspired the 2000-square-foot lounge’s look? “The Hotel Bel-Air’s bar, El Carmen, Casa del Mar… these are the attributes we were looking for.”  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Patrons enjoys drinks at Copa d’Oro.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)