Author Archives: MikeQ

BLUE MOON DINER, and hitting on Big Sam’s girlfriend

Before becoming a bartender, I took time off from my college years to travel as the road manager of a local rock band.  The band was called “Wool” — Neil Diamond was our producer.  Here’s a story from those days … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 3 Comments

IN THE WEEDS (with fresh-squeezed OJ)

Bartending should be fun — and it is fun, especially when there’s music in the background, a lively crowd, and those dollar bills keep piling up in in the tip jar. It can also be hard work, a daunting challenge … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 17 Comments

AN IRISH SHOT (and two other notes)

Last week’s video showed how to use a traditional “four count” to pour an exact shot.  Apparently in Ireland, they have their own count.  This just in from our good friend and fellow barman on the emerald island, Diarmaid D: … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 3 Comments

How to “Free Pour” like a Pro in 10 minutes (or less)

Ever wonder how professional bartenders easily free pour so accurately — one ounce, one and a half, or two ounces — all without using a shot glass or jigger?  How long does it take to master this skill?  Check out … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 21 Comments

WHEN SOME OF THE CUSTOMERS ARE GANGSTERS . . .

  I’ve been lucky in this business.  I’ve always liked the places I worked . . . always thought highly of the regulars, the staff and the owners. In part, that was simply good fortune — lucking out in getting … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 11 Comments