Whether you’re a fan of dive bars, beer bars, rooftop bars, romantic bars or any other kind of bar, you can always find what you’re looking for in New York—most of us don’t even need to leave our neighborhoods to visit a bar (and bartender) we love. If your favorite bartender made it to the shortlist below, vote for them, then come back on March 17 to see if they made it into the final 50.
Bar: Saxon + Parole
Been a bartender for: 8 years
Signature drink: Hakushu cocktail
The best thing about being a bartender is: Being able to work all over the world, meet a variety of people and learn about different tastes and bar trends in different countries.
Bar: Jimmy at the James
Been a bartender for: 10+ years
Signature drink: Vieux Carre
The best thing about being a bartender is: Every night is a fresh opportunity to meet new people or spend time with regular customers—many of whom have become friends. My job is to make sure people have a great night, and that's a real privilege.
Bar: Ward III
Been a bartender for: 16 years
Signature drink: Maple Old Fashioned
The best thing about being a bartender is: Every night at work is like a night out.
Bar: Madam Geneva
Been a bartender for: 7 years
Signature drink: Bleecker Fix
The best thing about being a bartender is: It's really about hospitality and getting to meet people from all parts of the world who are interested in what they are drinking. Every spirit, cocktail, ingredient and person has a story. Putting those things together is a magical moment.
Bar: The Daily
Been a bartender for: 8 years
Signature drink: Dead Squad
The best thing about being a bartender is: The opportunity to meet new people and customize an experience for them.
Bar: Fanelli's Cafe
Been a bartender for: 8 years
Signature drink: Bloody Mary
The best thing about being a bartender is: Practicing new social skills that I somehow missed growing up in a low-stakes environment with lots of support from my regulars!
Bar: Galli
Been a bartender for: 8 years
Signature drink: Lansky
The best thing about being a bartender is: Being able to express my creativity through fresh ingredients in our cocktails.
Bar: The Dead Rabbit
Been a bartender for: 9 years
Signature drink: Nut Job
The best thing about being a bartender is: The best thing about being a bartender is being able to make people's day brighter, or send them out happier than when they came in!
Bar: The Mercer Kitchen
Been a bartender for: 7 years
Signature drink: Cucumber Mint Julep
The best thing about being a bartender is: Meeting new people, sharing ideas, spreading good vibes. I love my job.
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