Behind the Bar With Roxi

Awe, the life of a bartender can be so very interesting.  As with most jobs, tending bar has its pros and cons.  The hours are tough, and working weekends (the big money nights) doesn’t make for much of a social life, but tending bar can be very lucrative.  Although dealing with drunken idiots does get old, you really can’t beat the atmosphere.  Being a bartender is challenging, but when you break it down, it’s like working in a party all the time!

Someone once asked me what the worst part of my job was and I guess I would have to say dealing with dumb asses and people who just want to be difficult.  Is it that hard to get your order straight, before you flag me down as if you have been waiting an eternity to order your drink?!  Also, is it too much to ask that you have some sort of currency out- cash, a credit card, your first born?!  I’ve come to the conclusion that some people are surprised they actually have to pay for the drinks they order!  I feel like I should apologize and say, “I know, we’re one of those weird bars that charges for drinks!”  Come on people, get it together and at least have a $20 out!

And for those who think adding, “Just one more mixed shot” is no biggie, think again!  Adding one more beer kind of disrupts my flow, but not a big deal. Adding one more Scooby Snack when I just poured five, well let’s just say it’s a bit of a pain in the ass. May sound like I’m just bitching, but being efficient is essential to a bartender.  And things like this slow us down.  So, if you’re ever frustrated because it’s taking forever to get your drink, take a look around at your fellow bar goers.  Chances are you are being held up by, “Miss Can I Get,” oh yeah and…Mr. “How much was that again, um where did I put my money?”

Oh and if you’re one of those who “just” needs a water, you “just” need to get a clue.  I don’t have a problem serving you water, but there’s nothing “just” about it.  “Just” because you want water, doesn’t mean you get a free pass to the front of the line, you can “just” wait your turn.

Aside from the above and the occasional moron who thinks they are sooo much smarter than you, we do meet some pretty cool people.  Over the years I’ve had some really amazing regulars who help bring everything full circle.  Dealing with unreasonable people is to be expected when you work in the bar industry.  It’s important to realize not everyone is drunk and stupid.  The good thing is that you meet a lot of really great people who actually appreciate you.  Some even take the time to notice how hard you’re working and realize how fast you’re moving.  So if you’re one of those people that are on the fence about showing your appreciation, worry no more and just go for it.  Trust me, patience and appreciation can really go a long way.  Who knows, the next time you need a drink it just might make the difference between getting your drink order before someone else or maybe even get you a free shot!  Although I could ramble on and on about the dumb things people say and do, being a bartender really is a great job! Don’t forget to take care of your bartender and they’ll take care of you.

- Roxi