Any neighborhood of note needs a catchy nickname. Since Sherman Oaks may be having its moment, I’ve considered possibilities. I’ve floated ShOaks by a few people when referencing Sherman Oaks, but it probably won’t stick. Conversely, chef Aaron Robins and his GM/partner Rory Snipes, two of the key people behind sister restaurant Boneyard Bistro, are making a pretty convincing case for SOCA. The name stands for Sherman Oaks, CAlifornia. Their restaurant serves modern Mediterranean food and cocktails that are good enough to sway people to their their San Fernando Valley acronym.

SOCA happy hour runs nightly from 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the bar. Six signature Spanish Gin Tonics are the aromatic centerpieces of SOCA’s cocktail program. Snipes says, “I thought [the gin & tonic] was all smoke and mirrors, but I started playing with them, and it was awesome.”

Each G&T includes a different gin and tonic. I opted for an enlightening No. 2 that combines Menorca born Mahon Gin, Fever Tree Mediterranean tonic, grapefruit peel, and celery leaf. Other compelling combos include kumquats and thyme; Meyer lemon peel and shiso; and strawberry and pink peppercorn. I look forward to trying more G&Ts in SOCA, which may soon become official.