I’ve written much on the why, how and when previously kind and hospitable bartenders mysteriously transform into utter assholes or douchebag mixologists. But, don’t take it just from me. I’m not the only game in this town (or The Wrong Coast for that matter). Enter Eric Alperin of Hey Bartender fame (I’m still waiting to see the movie) and barkeep at L.A.’s The Varnish.
Before defecting to that bastion of all things superficial and festering valley of smog – SoCal – he kinda gained some fame in the burgeoning (ugh) Mixology scene here in NYC. Having spent a good deal of time “behind the wood,” at fine watering holes like Osteria Mozza, Lupa and The Screening Room, he’s no stranger to the upper-echelon throwback scene. Later on, he upped his game even further – at arguably, the height of “the scene” here in town – working with/for Sasha Petraske at now legendary Mixology clinics Milk & Honey (sadly defunct) and Little Branch.
I dunno about the Windsor knot though. For me, anyone under 75 caught wearing is instantly accused of douchebaggery and needs swift kick in the head. Combined with the suspenders, scruff and Machinist type frame, it all screams attitude. Buy hey, that’s another story. The message in this video (tolerance and acceptance) is what’s important and Eric delivers in grand fashion. Kudos.
