Tending bar tends to be an extrovert's game.
You have to deal with other staff members and chat to dozens, if not hundreds, of customers on a daily basis -- it's almost like being onstage.
For the most part, you're not going to find many shy people behind the bar, unless they've learned to get over their shyness by jumping straight in, says self-proclaimed introvert and mixologist extraordinaire Kelsey Simon of Tin Fish.
Clean Plate Charlie spoke to her about learning to socialize and some really strange drinks.
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Clean Plate Charlie: Where are you from?
Simon: I grew up in Palm City. I went to Martin County High. Florida girl, born and raised!
How long have you been in the industry?
I've worked in the industry since I was 15. I started bartending about three years ago.
I knew I wanted to be a bartender when I discovered the creative aspect of the job, and the happiness that I can bring to someone, even if it's just for a moment.
Favorite drink to make?
Something I come up with on the fly. When a guest asks me to surprise them, I ask them a few questions to find out their tastes; then I improvise. The excited look on their faces after their first sip is one of my favorite parts of my job.
