“So, are you looking for a summer job?” one of Public House’s hunky male bartenders asked me as I surveyed the situation. Hmm…he obviously hasn’t seen PhillyIn. “No, no, this is just for fun. I already have a job,” I laughed. “I could tell you were a rookie from the heels,” he smirked, and I wasn’t offended.
Justin and I had been instructed to wear black that night. Bummer, I had wanted to wear something slightly outrageous. Why? Defense! (My tactic – stand out, so as not to be mistaken for a “real” bartender.) So, I resolved to be a rebel! But, the hopelessly “goodie-two-shoe” in me wouldn’t allow it. A fashion summit with Amber-Joi, produced a black tank top, skirt (instead of the pants), knee socks and heels. Yes, heels!
Evidently, my new bartender friend considered it a daredevil move. When he smirked, he pointed to the “holey” rubber mats that my heels would be stuck in all night. (For the record, I knew about the mats.) But, who knew I was such a risk taker? Unfortunately, for all my forethought, my tactic didn’t work. People still assumed I knew what I was doing. Should have worn head-to-toe hot pink.
It was quickly apparent, I wasn’t in the “happy hour” minor leagues anymore. This was the real deal! Bartenders racing back and forth – customer, drinks, cash, register – customer, drinks, cash, register. These guys are so good, it looked choreographed. I, on the other hand, definitely felt “in the way”. Compared to me, even Justin (who had done this before) looked like a pro! Though let’s admit it, some of the time, he looked just as confused as me.
New tactic! Play up my strengths. Entertain crowd with sparkling wit and vivacious personality! Isn’t that why I’m here anyway?
“$200.00?!?!?!” I looked anxiously at the number glaring up at me from the register. How did that happen? “Umm….excuse me?” I looked for my new bartender friend. Where did he go? I meant to put in $20 and added an extra zero. Oooops! I’m thinking that’s probably an issue… sudden nightmares of screwed up money drawers and missing drink orders. It’s a lot of pressure for someone inexperienced, and there’s a lot that can go wrong. I’m still slightly surprised they let me do it at all!
In the end, someone rescued me and I did learn how to make a few drinks! Long Island Iced Tea is now my specialty! It’s not too tasty, but it’s definitely strong! And I learned a few “secrets” of the trade. I won’t reveal them here. You can thank me later. Sometimes it’s better to just believe in Santa Claus.
By midnight, I was starting to get the hang of it. Who knows, next time you see me behind the bar, I might be tossing bottles behind my back.
Long story short, tip your bartenders well. Very well. They work much harder than you realize.
Need some practice? Head to Logan Square because Public House is turning 5 tonight!!! And it’s going to be a great birthday!
Where: Public House, Logan Square
What: 5 Year Anniversary Party
When: TONIGHT! Thursday, April 29! The VIP party starts at 8pm with complimentary snacks and open bar!
Why: Because it’s gonna be a good, good night!
Who: Special guest DJ’S: Kissette, two hot sister DJ’s from the Big Apple.
Check out the evite: http://publichousephilly.com/evite/
Thanks to all my friends who came out to laugh at me behind the bar! Love you guys too!
Adventures In Bartending: Students Run Philly Happy Hour
