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When you make your way up to the bar at the Empty Bottle Saloon, don't demand a free drink.
Seasoned bartender and local hottie Wayne Robinson said it won't get you anywhere. "I can’t stand chicks—and believe it or not, dudes—that say, 'It’s my birthday, do I get a free drink?' I tell them they get to blow out my candle," he said, adding that if you tip well and be patient, you'll have a better shot. "Bartenders notice and remember everything," he said.
Metromix sat down with the man who has been pouring drinks for 18 years. We found out how he cures a hangover, what he does during the day and why he stays away from Long Island Iced Teas.
Ever gone home with a customer?
I bartended at Chippendales in Manhattan for two years, with thousands of loose, drunk and horny women with limos and money to take us out on the town…of course not!
Favorite celeb you’d love to serve?
Jack Nicholson. The guy is just a maniac. Pouring for him would be wild.
What drink would you serve him?
Jack Daniel’s on the rocks. That’s what he drank in “The Shining.” His money would be no good at my bar, either.
What drink will have you calling a cab home?
Long Island Iced Tea. Honestly, there’s no reason to order this unless you want to end up in a ditch or a back alley puking. Stick to beer.
What is the worst pick up line you have ever heard?
Girls don’t use pick up lines.
What's the largest cash tip you've ever received?
I got $100, a few times.
What alcohol will you not drink?
Apple martinis
What made you become a bartender?
I needed a job after school and it seemed like fun. I was right. Here I am after 18 years. I still can’t give it up.
Do you have any other jobs?
Yes, I have a painting company that specializes in high-end wall treatments and murals, and I also own an ATM company.
Do you go out to any other bars?
I work every weekend and I don’t get out too much these days. When I do, I usually hang out at the waterfront in Newburgh at the Blue Martini and Front Street.
Is there a drink that makes you cringe when it’s ordered?
No
Have you had any really ridiculous or insane customers?
The only customers that seem to stand out to me anymore are the angry ones that look for fights. I like to watch the bouncers beat them up. Don’t annoy me too much or I’ll sic them on you!
What’s your secret to curing a hangover?
A steam room. If that doesn’t work, just start drinking again. The headache goes right away.
Do you see fake ids?
Yes. Not too often, though.
If so, what was the worst?
McLovin.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m a ballerina. Just kidding. People always seem to be surprised to find out that I’m an artist.
Do you have a signature drink?
The Guinea Tornado. It is one shot of Sambuca, one shot of Disaronno, and one shot of Galliano. You have to spin around three times after each shot, with no break between. You’ll be in the bathroom puking if you can make it there in time!
Relationship status?
Married
