Author Archives: MikeQ

WHICH IS MORE FUN … office work, or bartending?

August hasn’t been a good month so far.  In July, I was set to cut down to two shifts a week at the club . . . so I could spend more time working on the book. It never happened. … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 14 Comments

THE INMATES ARE RUNNING THE AYSLUM

I know this is late.  I spent too much time this week watching the Olympics, then on Sunday I was called in during brunch — something was wrong with the soda guns.  Got stuck there for another two hours in … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 16 Comments

SHIT CUSTOMERS SAY (when they think we’re not listening)

It always amazes me when customers carry on private conversations — when they discuss things they clearly don’t want overheard — while there’s a bartender working just two feet away.  They talk trash about their girlfriends or boyfriends, their bosses, … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 15 Comments

THE BARTENDER’S “GREAT ESCAPE”

Usually when people talk about a bartender’s escape, scenes of tropical islands or some weekend ski resort come to mind.  But today I’m thinking about a different kind of break . . . an escape from the real world in … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 17 Comments

Kate

Sad news . . . my long-time friend Kate O’Connor passed away this week.  Kate and I worked together behind the bar many years ago, and although separated geographically afterward we always remained close via email, phone, and in spirit.  … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 11 Comments