Rockwood Liquor Store

Slightly seedy area. Parking lot aplenty. Lots of folks there on a thursday evening. Perfectly friendly place, people and staff!

4 stars because it’s Rockwood BUT they’ve got Aviation gin.
It was Friday, the start of the weekend, and I was wanting a martini because I am a working stiff after all.
I called ahead to the store because I was not expecting they would have local gin.
She said they usually do but checked to make sure.
Surprise!
I made my way off the freeway and made a right off of 181^st directly to their door. Grabbed my bottle and paid the clerk.
Best of all, on sale at 3.00 off!
Made my martini all the more better!

First of all, the girl at the counter only asks for ID when she’s supervised. I’ve only bought liquor there twice, weekend after weekend. The first time, she was quick to send me and my boyfriend out and on our way. Was she friendly? No. Just takes the bottle and takes your money, and she’s too good for life to smile. Second time, we could hear all the employees talking and realized it was definitely a family business. Her dad and her brother were there, so guess what! First thing she asks is for our ID’s. I had mine, but my boyfriend didn’t think to bring his (he’s just forgetful). We’re both nearly 30. He doesn’t look that young, but I could definitely pass for pretty young… So the first time, the fact that she didn’t even card me was a shocker. The second time, carding me seemed a little more acceptable of how they run their business. And trust me, I understand it’s the law and I’d rather be carded than not… BUT now I’ve gotten to see that she only cards when daddy’s around, I just thought I’d report it back to anyone that cares to know. Maybe if she was at least nice and broke the rules, it wouldn’t be as ridiculous… But she’s not nice, friendly, courteuous or anything of that sort. She really only works there because daddy’s the boss, otherwise any other retail/​customer service store would reject her application. I’m not saying I’d prefer if she never cards… She’s supposed to even when her dad isn’t babysitting her. I am saying she’s not friendly and borderline rude.

This is why you want me in charge of your retirement gift: I buy booze. I buy booze you like. Even when I’m running late to your party in BFE east county.
This small liquor store resides in a smog-​choked intersection hellstrip, where, God willing, you will never have cause to pass through, let alone stop.
But if you do, your bravery and fortitude will be rewarded with a shockingly good selection and friendly staff. I hope someone like me is around when I retire.