Author Archives: MikeQ

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

BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING (Overwhelming response from Boston and beyond)

                        “We just heard from Oscar,” Stefanie told me, “He and his crew are all fine.” The news about the terrorist bombing in Boston had just broken, and Stef … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 11 Comments

VIVIAN (an old-school barmaid)

This post will be a quiet one . . . no bells and whistles, no big bang at the end. Today we’ll look at a simple, thoughtful moment — and the lasting image of a veteran bartender doing something beyond … Continue reading

Posted in Life on a Cocktail Napkin | 31 Comments