With bar communities across the globe facing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bartenders are navigating uncharted territories. We've reached out to friends and mixologists from around the world to discover how they are coping and getting creative during these trying times.
Yael Vengroff, The Spare Room, Los Angeles, CA
Instagram: @yaelvengroff
"The quarantine has been devastating as it has removed two key aspects of my life: physical activity and my career," shares Vengroff, Bar Director at LA's Spare Room. "On the bright side, I'm learning to find peace without them."
Vengroff is maintaining her physical health by engaging in various forms of exercise. "I have two poles in my house, and my roommate teaches virtual pole dancing classes, which I participate in," she says. "I've also been doing every exercise video and app I come across, taking every style of dance class available."
One of her bartenders, Cait Pfeiffer, has found solace in roller skating, creating video content with her partner. Vengroff suggests that those without niche activities try a calming yoga flow in the morning or evening and incorporate HIIT or cardio training three times a week.
To stay active and positive, Vengroff recommends embracing the break. "I believe the best thing I could do right now is to STOP," she admits. "I'm trying to fill myself with cultural knowledge, currently exploring the no-wave scene in music and film."
Bob Peters, Grinning Mule, Charlotte, NC
Instagram: @bob_peters
"The COVID-19 virus has rocked the Charlotte hospitality industry to its core," says Peters, a social media influencer and Head Mixologist at Grinning Mule. "Most restaurants have closed, except for a few offering takeout or curbside delivery."
Peters and his fellow bartenders have started a virtual happy hour sponsored by Unpretentious Palate. "Each session is presented by a different bartender who chooses their own topic. My talk was on punch," Peters explains. "It's a way to brush up on our skills and maybe learn something new while we are not working."
Peters is exploring new cocktail art techniques using the Ripple Maker, a device that imprints logos, photographs, and quotes onto cocktails. He believes that when people can gather again, these extra touches will aid in the healing process.
Kate Boushel, Barroco Group, Montreal, Canada
Instagram: @kateboushel
"What a time to be alive. We're witnessing and participating in a global revolution," explains Boushel, Beverage & Education Director for Montreal venues including Atwater Cocktail Club, Fugazzi, and Milky Way Cocktail Bar. "We're forced to reevaluate the value of community and revisit our personal and social constructs."
Boushel notes that Canadian bartenders are relatively privileged due to access to universal healthcare and government assistance programs. These programs allow bartenders to focus on industry issues and community support.
To help those in need, initiatives like the Bartenders Benevolent Fund and the Emergency Relief Fund have been established. Local initiatives, virtual happy hours, and check-ins also help maintain morale and connection.
Boushel acknowledges the long road to recovery. "A large number of establishments may not survive, but we can find creative ways to rebuild together," she says. "Let us think about changes we could bring to our structures to help our industry emerge stronger from this pandemic."
