Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Harrison.
Hi Matthew, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Roadrunner Spirits was born from the idea of a meeting place for bartenders and cocktail aficionados. Where you could find interesting liqueurs and new tequila releases, tools and syrups. I looked at places like the Mixing Glass and Bar Keeper for inspiration. I also wanted to modernize with an online platform and free local delivery. It took a few years, but I am proud to be the nexus of so many different groups – the natural wine imbibers, tequila and whiskey clubs, the rum nerds. The community aspect was always the central point and as we march into our fifth year, I can only hope we continue growing it.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The learning curve for opening a new business is tough. Everyone will say they’ll help you out for a price. And there’s very little to go off as to which is worthwhile or not, other than gut instinct. I could say there are plenty of things I would have done differently, but Roadrunner Spirits is what it is today because of both the good and bad times.
As you know, we’re big fans of Roadrunner Spirits. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Roadrunner Spirits started out as an idea to serve the area around Los Alamitos with craft spirits, natural wine, and local beer, but it has grown to a point where folks from all over LA and Orange counties are checking us out. We only sell things we would drink, and that’s all across the board, but the tequila boom of the last few years is evident on our shelves. We probably do more tequila than anything else, even have a monthly tequila subscription, but I often get people exclaiming the vermouth or agricole rhum or stout they’re holding they haven’t been able to find anywhere else. When I was a bartender, there was a satisfaction in turning people onto new spirits. Now, as a shop owner, the satisfaction is on the other end, finding that spirit they haven’t been able to find since.
Roadrunner Spirits has a rotating selection of curated spirits, wine, and beer available in-store or online purchase (with free local delivery). We offer cocktail sets, a tequila club, in-home tastings/classes, recipe ideas, and special orders.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Coming from the bartending world, hospitality is most important to me. I want people to feel welcomed and included when they enter Roadrunner. I pride myself on so many people coming to ask about gift ideas and recipe substitutions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.roadrunner.la/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roadrunnerspirits
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roadrunnerspirits/
Image Credits
Allan Wan
