Bartender Q&A: Erik Smith of 3rd & 3rd on Ernest Hemingway and Big Dudes With Girly Drinks

Broward and Palm Beach Counties have been starting to pick up the pace in terms of interesting mixology programs. Unfortunately, it's still hard to get a drink in a laid-back setting. For those of you looking to chill out while sipping on a delightful cocktail, there's 3rd &3rd. The relaxed...

By Sara Ventiera

May 16, 2013

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Broward and Palm Beach Counties have been starting to pick up the pace in terms of interesting mixology programs.

Unfortunately, it's still hard to get a drink in a laid-back setting.

For those of you looking to chill out while sipping on a delightful cocktail, there's 3rd &3rd. The relaxed bar is full of easygoing--yet attentive staff--who can mix up a damned good drink. We decided to chat with 3rd & 3rd's Erik Smith about Scarlett's, Ernest Hemigway, and cleanliness.

- Mixologist Iliya Dimitrov on How to Make the Perfect Negroni

Clean Plate Charlie: Hometown/ High School?

Smith:Boca Raton/ Olympic Heights

How long have you been in South Florida?

Born and raised.

How long have you been in the industry?

Since 1998.

I knew I wanted to be a bartender when _______.

I saw my friends making over 100 bucks a shift.

Favorite drink to make?

Any drink not frozen!

Least favorite drink to make?

Mojito's

Strangest drink requested?

Nothing comes to mind.

What's your favorite spirit?

Jah!! haha

What's your favorite thing to drink after work?

Any strong beer!

What is your favorite place to drink after work?

If I had to choose...Scarlett's! Otherwise, I just have one during my cashout with our crew!

What's the best pick-up line you've heard at the bar?

Nice and simple, "Are you ready to get out of here?"

Worst?

All of them!

If someone comes in and orders a ______, you instantly think ______ about them.

I try not to judge, but their are some really big dudes I serve and they drink little girly drinks and then their are some little chicks that drink big manly drinks like whiskies and scotches.

Biggest pet-peeve while working?

Cleanliness

Who is your favorite local bartender? Any why?

All the ones that give me free drinks! haha

If I wasn't a bartender, I would be a ______.

A boat captain

Favorite kind of bar customer?

Patient and appreciative. One that tips well doesn't hurt.

Least favorite kind of bar customer?

The whistler or "Hey. Hey type.

If you could make a drink for anyone, who would it be? And which drink do you think would suit them?

Ernest Hemingway. Ron Zacapa with one cube of ice.

Favorite thing about bartending?

The crazy shit you get to see!

Follow Sara Ventiera on Twitter, @saraventiera.

Follow @CleanPlateBPB

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