The Fiscal Agent, likely the San Fernando Valley's most ambitious cocktail bar ever, closed in Studio City to start July. Sprout Restaurant Group debuted the bar upstairs from sister establishment Barrel & Ashes in 2015. They opened with a bartending dream team that included Julian Cox, Kristina Howald, Dave Kupchinsky and Nick Meyer, along with high-tech equipment like a centrifuge and rotovap. Julian and Kristina left for Chicago to start 2016, and the concept seemed to lose momentum despite the arrival of another accomplished beverage director, Chris Amirault.

Barrel & Ashes chef Michael Kahikina initially created a menu of compelling small plates like Peruvian scallops, arancini and steak tartare—but soon switched to more approachable fare in the form of Barrel & Ashes barbecue.

According to reps from Sprout Restaurant Group, “We're excited to announce that we will be expanding Barrel and Ashes beyond the downstairs restaurant to continue its growth and evolution upstairs, making room for more of your favorite hoe cakes, brisket, beer, whiskey and much more to come.”

11801 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-623-8883