Behind the Bar

"Bartendrex" is the femine word format for Bartender. I have been a Bartender for six years and have been in the service industry for eleven. I have found by place behind the bar. People often ask me when I will get a "real job" or if I'm still in school... My answer? I don't need a real job, have you ever heard the expression, do something you love and you will never have to work a day in your life? Well that's me. There is something captivating about being a Bartender. I meet so many people, I know things about these people that their closest friends don't know. I pride myself on knowing people by drink. Anyone can know a name, but a drink? I know what makes you tick, I can tell what kind of day you are having by what and how you order. Is it a light hearted gin and tonic day? or do you need to get straight to the scotch? Are you a lime kind of girl or do you always go with a signature lemon with your vodka soda? Remembering these kind of details is what separates a Bartender from a monkey slinging drinks. The art of conversation is the real skill of a Bartender... and that doesn't always warrant being nice or a friendly smile. It is more than friendly service, it is personalized service and being able to read a perfect stranger or a regular that has a permenant seat at your bar and a drink named after him on your cocktail list. Being a therapist, tour guide and confidant comes with the shake tin.
So what else? My first Bartending job was at an upscale steakhouse. I was fortunate to work with fabulous conversationalists who lead me into the profession with a steady hand and a triple shot of Rumplmintz and although I rarely drink heavily any more, it comes with the territory. Just freshly of legal age, on my first night on the job the other two Bartenders had me schnauckered and in a panic when the regulars were analyzing my every move and laughing at my blatant mistakes. By the end of the shift, I was a wreck and the far superior Bartenders only laughed and with a pat on the back said, "You did good kid, and it will never be that hard again." And it wasn't. I dove in head first to fast cash, heavy drinking and late late nights hanging out after hours with co-workers. I also picked up a nack for creating my own cocktails and developed quite the palat for fine wines.
After a couple of years I was introduced to a new bar, an upscale lounge with artisan cocktails and a schlew of Bartenders who called themselves "Mixologists." They worked with only fresh ingredients and liquors I had never heard of. I found myself enthralled with all of the possibilities and although my love for wine continued to flourish, I began my love affair with Cocktails.
I never adopted the title of "Mixologist." I met many wonderful people who did. However, it is not for me. I never wanted to get so geeked out on the chemistry of cocktail mixing that I lost sight of what my job was. My job was, and is to entertain people and to treat them to a relaxing libation that offers an escape from their reality. And that is where I find happiness, offering a mini vacation to hard working doctors, laywers, teachers, whoever it may be.  I enjoy creating new concoctions to wow and astound my customers, and I strive for balance within the glass and outside of it.
Bartending is one of my many passions, along with my family and other artistic endeavors. I love sharing my drinks and experiences with other Bartenders and customers alike. I hope you enjoy my blog and or a seat at my bar. Thanks for reading.