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ASK A BARTENDER
Professional Bartending with Patrick Abalos Photo by Shannon Sturgis
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Remember you are not the drinks you make, you are not the glasses you polish, you are not the people you train nor the bars you build. You are who you are and what you believe. If you are a bartender, you will know it, and so will the world. As Jackson Cannon so eloquently put it, bartending is a passion, a calling for some. We asked Chilled 100 member Patrick Abalos about living the life of a professional bartender. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A PROFESSIONAL BARTENDER? A professional bartender, by my definition, is a bartender who is working toward mastering the craft while staying humble and grounded. Taking the time to listen to those around them, help others, and educate those who are
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open to it. Be the person who is in tune with what is trending in your market and in the national market, and also open to what others are doing in their individual markets. At the end of the day, we are the ones who are pushing this industry forward. Putting the time and effort into it should bring a sense of selffulfillment that you are contributing to the advancement of our craft. HOW DO YOU MAKE THIS PROFESSION A CAREER? My advice to anyone who wants to make bartending a career is: Be yourself. Always keep an open mind.
Surround yourself with people who will support you and help you learn. Your friends make up the basis of who you are as a person. Take any knowledge you learn and lock it in. No one can take away what you have learned and the experiences you’ve had. If someone tells you that you shouldn’t be doing this, work harder. Don’t ever lose sight of your goals and end game. This career has many opportunities for advancement and growth. Working for a brand, becoming a bar manager with your own cocktail program, or even opening a bar are just a few of the many paths available. On a final note, take the time to take of care of yourself. This industry has long hours. If you walk into work and enjoy what you do, you will be successful. Remember… the spotlight is always on you!
