by Eleanor Harte
Neil is the bar manager at Isola, where he’s worked since they opened last summer. Originally from Ft. Lauderdale, he has spent multiple summers bartending on the island and now lives here full time. The seasoned veteran has dealt with all kinds of customers, from the good to the crazy. Along the way, he’s witnessed some very awkward moments, and even served drinks to celebrities. He offers tips for getting a bartender’s attention, shares how to make his favorite drink, and spilled his secret pet peeves.
1 What’s the best and worst way to get a bartender’s attention?
The absolute worst is to snap your fingers or hit the bar. That doesn’t work. The best is to wait patiently and to make eye contact.
2 What’s one of the most interesting stories you have from bartending?
When I was working in Ft. Lauderdale in the ‘90s, the Florida Panthers hockey team was in the Stanley Cup playoffs. They lost, but the whole team came to the bar. We closed down the bar for them, had music going, and had a big party until 4 am. It was a blast, and they were such nice guys.
3 What’s an awkward moment you’ve witnessed?
I witnessed a guy at the bar with his wife and then his girlfriend showed up. He turned really white and then he left pretty quickly after that. It was really uncomfortable. He was never to be seen again!
4 What is your pet peeve when it comes to customer behavior?
When people order multiple drinks but they only order one at a time. So first they order a glass of wine, and then I come back and they order a cocktail, and then I come back and they order a bud light. That’s irritating, especially when it’s really busy.
5 What is your favorite drink?
I would have to say Baby Blue Eyes. It’s fresh blueberries, mint, lemon, gin, St. Germain, and to top it off, a splash of prosecco. People love it; it’s probably our signature drink.
6 How did you become a bartender?
I started in college, and I worked my way through college [as a bartender]. I fell in love with it and the rest is history.
7 What’s the best part about being a bartender?
Interacting with people is great, it’s nice to see guests leave happy. It’s nice knowing that their time here was enjoyable and that I had something to do with that.
8 What’s the most difficult part?
Dealing with people who’ve had too much to drink is hard. You have to cut them off without upsetting them. I usually ignore them for a little bit, and then I keep giving them water. I tell them to come back tomorrow night. Most people are okay but sometimes you get someone who gives you a hard time.
9 What is your favorite drink to make?
It’s corny, but the one that makes the guest happy.
10 What is an ideal customer for you?
Someone who’s happy and easygoing. Someone who’s not demanding and gives me time to let me do my job. That’s the best kind of customer.
