Popping into one of our many swanky hotel bars for spot of gin is a great way to spend a hot Thursday afternoon in Dallas after a trip to an art museum. The only hiccup usually occurs right as you happen to order your favorite cocktail, (outside of vodka/soda , whisky/coke) and the bartender looks at you like you shot a cat because they have no utter idea what you’re talking about. Not so much is the case with Ray Elizaradio. Ray is the kind of bartender that makes his patron the perfect martini because he knows the perfect martini is usually subjective to the lifestyle of the patron. Instead of mixing expensive tequila with coke, he puts a cube of sugar in it. A classy dressed businessman will normally enjoy a vodka martini or a good gin tonic. Ray takes the time to ask questions of taste and lifestyle so important in giving him the edge when pouring you a drink. He also has a great knowledge of independent cinema, modern art, rock n’ roll culture and adores THE CLASH which is a major plus in my book. He’s very interesting to chat with. Having worked at the Stark Club in the 1980’s its pretty safe to assume Ray’s been on his game for quite some time. (If you don’t know what the Stark Club is… go ahead, give it a google!). So I asked Ray a few questions and this is what he said:
Scott: “So what the hell are people really drinking this summer?”
Ray: “Oh you know, the usual, we sell a lot of vodka/soda, vodka/tonic, mojitos , and actually gin seems to be making a big comeback ”.
Scott: “Probably from the whole Mad Men frenzy thing going on”
Scott: “What should people be ordering this summer?”
Ray: “ What from me?”
Scott: “Sure, what do you make that’s really killer?”
Ray: “Well of course I make a really good Manhattan or maybe a Gimlet. It just depends on what you like, if you really care about the craft you’re going to ask them what they like. Most people don’t even know what a Gimlet is but really it’s just limejuice and vodka. I get them what they want through a process of elimination”.
Scott: “I think the Fitzgerald’s drank a lot of Gimlets in the 20’s.
Scott: “Well outside of here what do you drink?”
Ray: “ You know I really enjoy a good scotch. Right now my favorite is Glenfiddich 15. I also like some of the darker imported beers. It’s really all just a matter of preference with scotch too. Some people prefer a more smoky taste and others a little more of a fruity after. It’s all really just a matter preference”.
Before I left for my next destination I ordered a couple rounds of my favorite summer cocktail; One part gin, one part apple juice with a garnish of mint leaves. Delicious! Unfortunately because this was not an official interview I cannot post the name or location of the hotel where this artisan behind the bar resides but if you email me I will divulge such information and you too can enjoy a summer delight. Bottoms up!
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