BEHIND THE BAR

What’s your favorite drink (to drink, not necessarily to make)?
I am a bartender, so I do not have one favorite drink. I love them all equally. Though if I were to have one go-to drink, to start the evening off, it would be a Negroni.

How would you say that drink defines your personality (or is similar to you in some way)?
It is bright red and bitter all the way through. Nothing like me at all. (I hope.) But on the other hand, it is quite refreshing, with a little European flair and has a little something you just cannot put down.

Who in town makes the best version of it? Where do you go
to get it?
All the ingredients are in most bars, but it is not a common request. So if I wanted to order one without having to make it myself, I would go to the bars that have a great and knowledgeable staff. Like No. 9 Park on Beacon Hill, Eastern Standard in Kenmore Square, B-Side Lounge in Cambridge, or Highland Kitchen in Somerville.

What do you like to eat with it?
It is an aperitif, which is a drink to start off the night and stimulate the appetite. From there you can go anywhere. From Champagne and oysters, Barolo and venison, to a Highlife and a burger.

When was the moment you realized it was your favorite drink?
On my very first sip, I said: "That's horrendous! Who in their right mind would order that?" Then, two minutes later, I said: "Hey, let me have another sip of that."