Sneak Peak: Cocktails at New Goodyear Hot Spot Magdaleña

2026 Summer Cocktail Camp Interview with a Mixologist!
Gilles Kolakowski from Filthy Martini Bar

The name on the restaurant reads Pa’La, but don’t be fooled: On Sunday, July 12, the latest iteration of the PHOENIX Magazine 2026 Summer Cocktail Camp will be hosted by Magdaleña. The newest concept from TPQ Foods (Pa’La, Tortas Paquime), Magdaleña will open in Goodyear’s new GSQ entertainment district later this month, bringing high-end, Latin-influenced fusion cooking to the West Valley. Since the restaurant’s wood-fire kitchen is not quite operational, Downtown sister restaurant Pa’La is hosting Cocktail Camp, offering guests a sneak preview of Magdaleña’s upcoming cocktail menu. We asked director of operations Gilles Kolakowski for a preview of the preview.

We know Magdaleña is still under wraps, but what can you tell us about the cocktail program?

It’s an invitation to travel to and discover Latin America, featuring classic agave liquors from Mexico like tequila, mezcal, sotol and bacanora; Bolivia’s national spirit, singani; Colombian vodka; Chilean gin and more. Each cocktail has a story inspired by a specific place in Latin America – a waterfall, the Andes or perhaps the streets of Mexico –  to provide an immersive experience.

We want to know about you! Give us your story.

I started working in the hospitality industry in 1988 in France while I was going to college. I moved to the U.S. in 1998 after closing my own restaurant. From there, I’ve worked in Utah, Chicago, Las Vegas and Manhattan, then made Arizona my home in 2012. I am the luckiest man on the planet, with an amazing wife and kids. I love what I do and do what I love.

It might be hard to choose, we know, but do you have a cocktail at Pa’La or Magdaleña that’s a favorite of yours?

At Pa’La Downtown, the Carajillo became a classic. It’s a combination of El Guel tequila, Licor 43, and espresso – honestly, it’s a favorite of both the guests and myself. (Editor’s note: It will be the welcome cocktail at the Cocktail Camp.)

The heat is officially here – what’s the first drink you reach for on a summer’s day?

Water, water and more water! And sparkling if possible. Then maybe a glass of rosé from Provence. You can’t take France out of a French man.

What should guests expect if they’re coming to Magdaleña for Cocktail Camp?

To have fun, of course! We want you to witness the contagious passion behind our beverage program, and the talent of Mikaela Yacknin (pictured with Kolakowski, above), our fantastic mixologist.

132 E. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-368-3052, palakitchen.com