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New York is filled with amazing bars, varying from luxurious establishments with refined cocktail lists to cozy dive bars where regulars flock faithfully to specials on tap. No matter what the atmosphere, it is the bartender who is ultimately in charge of a customer’s experience. They are in charge of the environment of the bar (whether it is subdued or hazardous), responsible for interacting with patrons who may be wanting a friendly listening ear with their round of drinks and, most importantly, they are directly responsible for the quality/ taste of the drinks. The bartender’s job is truly an important one, especially in New York where urbanites are eager to for a fun night out on any night of the week.
Recently Davina Thomasula, bartender at Park Bar in Union Square, was named one of the top 10 best bartenders in New York according to the readership of Time Out New York . Thomasula has been tending bar for over 12 years, eight of which have been at Park Bar. She was initially attracted to bar tending for a number of reasons, including the flexibly.
“I’ve always loved being around people but, honestly, the flexibility of the job was really attractive to me. I love to cook, travel and pursue other endeavors and this job allows me to explore and do the things I love every day.”
So what are the elements that make a great bartender?
Thomasula says, “I think a good bartender is someone who, not only knows how to make a solid drink, but is also a good listener and conversationalist. Making people feel welcome and comfortable is important so you have to be inviting even when you’re really busy. A good bartender is someone you can relate to, laugh with (or at) – not to mention someone who is quick witted. Most importantly, you have to be memorable and genuinely care about every person that walks in. That’s hard to find.”
She also attributes her success to her fellow staff members.
“For years, I’ve been working alongside an amazing group of people including Yogi, also a great bartender, and Juan, my bar back, who is someone I couldn’t do anything without. I feel like it takes a team to be at the top.”
Another aspect of a great bartender is the acknowledgement of their craft and the importance of cultivating it just as they would any other profession. When asked what is something that people don’t know about being a bartender, Thomasula relies:
“…It IS a real job. Haha!” Just as an artist spends time perfecting their art, bartenders and mixologists create cocktails that are as signature and as memorable as a piece of art. And just as the mood of a stage performance can determine the outcome of a viewer’s night, a bartender’s individual personality can affect a patron’s night for better or for worse.
Along with Thomasula’s notable drinks and service, Park Bar has many desirable elements for all types of bar-goers.
She says, “We are a solid bar with a bunch of huge personalities and stiff drinks so you will always have a good time. Some of us have been working together there for years and some patrons have been drinking there with us for years, so it feels like a family that just continues to grow.”
Urbanites located downtown or anyone looking to have a fun night out should pay a visit to Park Bar and experience what separates a good bartender from a great one.
-by Johanna Silver