Living Proof podcast: Kevin Diedrich is the mixologist of the moment

America’s Bartender of the Year discusses the hospitality ethos of his award-winning Pacific Cocktail Haven.

Dec 02, 2020, updated May 15, 2025

Even before drinkers enter Kevin Diedrich’s venue, Pacific Cocktail Haven, they have a good idea of the kind of quality experience they’re in for.

But four years ago, when Kevin Diedrich was in the process of re-imagining the existing neighbourhood bar that would become PCH, a bunch of regulars were asking why he was ruining their favourite venue. He says it was like getting punched in the stomach, over and over again.

On this week’s Living Proof podcast, Kevin shares how a focus on “warm welcomes and fond farewells” has now seen PCH become the Best American Cocktail Bar, in the same year he was named the country’s best bartender.

You can find Living Proof on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or Spotify.

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