Hello there friends and soon to be allies!
I’d like to welcome you to the first of many posts about the wonderful world of alcoholic beverages and your friendly local bar-keep.
My name is Tara, and I’ve been working in bars and pubs for around 6 years. I’ve done everything from pokie payouts and pulling beers to cracking cans at festivals and making delicious cocktails in (what I think are) some of Brisbane’s finest establishments. I’ve had the privilege to work with, and competing against, some of the best bartenders in the country. I haven’t wasted a second of that time. I’ve learnt a lot and I consider myself well versed enough to help you through a haze of new products, bars and bartender pick-up lines (they’ll get ya!).
To this..
I’ve recently changed sides and now order drinks rather than making them. This has given me a newfound understanding of how intimidating a 100 drink cocktail list or a bartender scoffing at an order of vodka, lime and soda can be. I also know that it doesn’t have to be this hard! I’m passionate about the customer always getting what they want out of a night on the town. For this reason I’m hoping my pearls of wisdom can help you spend less time deciding and more time drinking!
While this blog is for anyone from a curiosity to a general interest, it might be a bit too beginner for those of you with greater experience. That said, feel free to jump in with suggestions and questions! This blog is about bridging the gap between customer and tender—and why not? You, the customer, should have a good idea of what's being put in front of you.
This is about helping those who love going out for good drinks to find what they’re looking for. It’s for anyone starting their journey into the world of cocktails, fine spirits and even a cold schooner of beer. All are welcome here: it’s the hospitality way, and the customer is always right.
I intend to cover as much as possible without overwhelming you with useless information. I want to tell you funny stories, review bars & drinks from them. I want to help you to get your head around the reasons why bartenders might act the way they do. A task? Shit yes! But me and my taste buds are at the ready.
I call Brisbane home so most of the reviews & discussions will be based in Southeast Queensland. Don’t think that will stop me though, whenever I venture to new pastures a pub or bar is usually the first place I hit and you can expect to read it all here. Feel free to comment, ask, or even suggest places for me to try and review. I may no longer be bartending, but my love for booze is for life. A love I hope to share with you.
Enjoy x
Tara 101
Favourite Spirit: Tequila (although I’ve been known to drink anything in front of me)
What I drink…
When it’s hot: Pear cider with bitters
When it’s cold: Heated rum with chocolate liqueur and cinnamon
To wind down: Scotch on the rocks
To party: Espresso Martinis with spiced rum
In a new bar: Classic Margarita (A drink that requires the basic skills of a good bartender)
Favourite pick up line: “Hey, you look like Toni Collette. Want to come home and read my Japanese Story?”
Looks delicious doesn't it?
