Behind the Bar With Roxi

Posted by Roxi on May 29, 2010 · 1 Comment

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

Filed under Social · Tagged with bar etiquette, bartender, behind the bar, roxi, scooby snack, shots

Introducing Roxi: The Bar Temptress

Posted by Roxi on May 29, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Roxi’s my name and bartending’s my game! As a bartender, I’ve seen all sorts of interesting things. From the usual drunken drama to some really cool people I’ve met and literally everything in between. I’ll share all sorts of funny stories, behind the scenes information, as well as drink and shot recipes with you. One of my purposes of writing this column is to help you be a better customer, a more desirable date and hopefully have more luck with “All the Single Ladies.” But before we indulge in all the drunken drama, let me give you a taste of the “Roxi” outside of the bar.

Growing up, all the neighborhood kids my age happened to be boys. All my cousins in my age group were also boys. Boys, boys, boys…what can I say, I guess I’ve grown up sort of being one of them. Sure, I love pink and anything that sparkles, but I really know how to relate to guys. I’ve always been Daddy’s girl, but I know my dad was hoping I’d be a boy so I think he was always tougher on me than my little sister. I like to get dolled up like most girls do, and I can do it like the best of ‘em, but I’m just as comfortable and content without all the glitz and glamour.

Another reason I relate to guys easier is that I’m interested in a lot of traditionally male things like sports, food and sleeping. :) Don’t get me wrong, I have great female friends also. But I’ll be the first to admit, girls often bring too much drama. Let’s face it – life is too short and we’ve got too much on our plates to waste time with that B.S. I’m not trying to give my girls a bad name, but facts are facts. There is much more drama with a group of girls than there is with a group of men. Don’t get too smug guys; some of you can be drama too! ;) However, guys in general are simple and the sooner my fellow ladies realize that, the better off we’ll all be.

I’m a versatile girl with many interests. I enjoy cooking and love baking! Although I like to take care of myself, I’m not one of those girls who live off celery sticks and rice cakes. In fact, I’d eat prime rib smothered in horseradish with a loaded baked potato on the side every night if I could ensure it wouldn’t bite me in the ass and clog my arteries one of these days. Football and baseball are two of my favorite sports to watch. Not only do I enjoy watching and playing sports, but I also understand them. Lounging on the couch on a cold Fall Sunday watching football all day is actually something I look forward to. Would you believe that I even draft my own Fantasy Baseball team every year? And I’ve been known to host some of the best Super Bowl parties complete with a great spread of food, football pools, and games with prizes throughout the event. I’m also a golfer and yes, my Nike Slingshots do more than just sit in my bag and look pretty. Not only do I know the “P” does not stand for putter, but I also know what par, birdie, eagle and even albatross mean.

I’ve always been a versatile person and able to fit in with many different groups of people: male, female, old, young, various ethnic backgrounds, financially sound or struggling. I can be found dancing in a mini dress with a pair of stilettos or involved in a sporting event wearing a baseball cap and jeans. To sum it all up, I’m an all-around girl with a variety of interests!

Well, I’m hoping I’ve given you enough info about me so you trust that I’m here for you as I contribute thoughts to Male Standard. So, continue to check out my columns and all the information I throw your way. I also look forward to hearing from you, so feel free to email me with any questions you may have for me.

Bottoms up,

Roxi

Filed under Social · Tagged with bar, bar temptress, bartender, drink recipes, drinks, roxi, Social