There is no shortage of great bars in NYC, but what sets a good bar apart from a great one? Many elements contribute to a memorable bar experience in New York. Perhaps the carefully crafted cocktail that you ordered tastes as good as it looks, maybe the service was friendly as well as impeccable, and you never once felt crowded or uncomfortable while on your barstool. These elements are largely dependent on the bartender. They are in charge of the quality of the drinks, the general atmosphere of the bar, and the direct interaction with patrons. With so many urbanites eager to have a fun experience at a bar on almost every night of the week, the bartenders’ job is truly an important one. Time Out New York recognizes the value of a great bartender with their New York’s Best Bartender 2015 Contest/Celebration.
Up until April 24th, readers were able to vote for their favorite bartender from bars all over the 5 boroughs; from dive bars to super chic establishments. The bartenders were narrowed down to 100, 50, 10 and finally, the #1 best bartender in New York. The title of best bartender went to Anthony LoPorto from Bean Post Pub in Bay Ridge. According to LoPorto, a great bartender is someone who can connect with his or her patrons and tend to every aspect needed for them to have the best experience possible. “I feel like a bar is like a small town, and the bartender becomes the mayor of the town.” LoPorto told Time Out New York in his Best Bartender 2015 interview.
Though the best bartender may not hail from the downtown area, many bartenders on Time Out New York’s top 10 list do; including Miguel Govea from JIMMY at the James, Darnell Holguin from Bathtub Gin, Moses Laboy from Gotham Bar & Grill, Davina Thomasula from Park Bar, and Derrick Turner from Harding’s.
In honor of the bartenders all around the city, Time Out New York is throwing their Best Bartender Celebration 2015 this coming Monday, May 18th at Dream Downtown. Participants can enjoy signature cocktails from several of the bartenders on Time Out’s top 10 list. This event is sure to be a rousing and boozy celebration and New York nightlife and the individuals that make it fun and memorable. Visit Time Out New York’s Tickets and Offers page to buy tickets for this event. Also, visit their Best Bartender 2015 page to check out the other top 100 NYC bartenders.
by- Johanna Silver
