XX Files–our weekly item on Toronto’s better bartenders.
Name/alias: Meghan Bradbury
Current bar: Martini Club
How long in the business: Since August 2011.
First drink/drunk: Rum and Coke. Haven’t touched it since!
What influences me: Since I work for Martini club, owners, Laura Panter and Michelle Hunt, design all the cocktails. Every Cocktail is catered specifically to the occasion/event that we’re hosting. This year Mad Men had a strong influence on the cocktail menu. Lots of classic martinis and Harvey Wallbangers! But it’s always different; it’s always fun to see what these ladies come up with.
Best barfly: We did a TIFF party in the fall. Not only did I get to meet some celebrities, but there is something about an open bar that turns people into animals.
Favourite cinematic bartender: I do like Violet from Coyote Ugly. She’s just a small town girl trying to make it in the “big city.” I love how her experience as a bartender allows her to develop into such a confident person. Who knew bartending could be so life changing?
Rules: Rules? I can’t say I have any rules; I will make anything a customer asks for. However, vodka and water? I just don’t get it; it’s like ordering cake without the icing. I always encourage customers to try a specialty cocktail, especially when we are using unique ingredients like gold leaf or peach bitters. A lot of bartenders don’t enjoy making the drinks that take time, like muddling the mint and lime for a Mojito, but I enjoy that part of the job. It’s an art.
Celebrity experiences: I just recently worked an event for the Toronto Maple Leafs. That was definitely the most memorable!
Best late-night or morning-after places: When I lived in the Beaches, I loved going to The Ceili Cottage, it’s a cozy little Irish bar with live music, delicious food and fun bartenders. I have yet to find a place like the Ceili Cottage in the west. For morning-after, I’d have to say Boom Breakfast on College. It’s great.
Best /worst tip: Depending on the event, we don’t usually have a tip jar, so when we do get tips, it’s always a nice treat.
Favourite cocktail/beer/wine right now: I’m not too much of a beer drinker, but I do really enjoy Caesars, white wine, and a good ol’ gin and tonics!
Watch for: I’m not too sure what Laura and Michelle have up their sleeves for 2012, but I do know that whatever they create will be a hit!
Martini Club, (416) 778-9905
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Kerry and Ivy Knight write the XX Files column for Toronto Standard. Follow them on Twitter at @keppsterr and @IvyKnight.
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