Loosen our inhibitions. Tell us jokes. Show us tricks. Calm us down. Rev us up.
Who amongst us hasn’t expected bartenders to do all that and more?
This month’s featured bartender has been in the business for over 10 years now, and she’s done it all. Kelly McGonagle, of the increasingly popular Side Bar, let us in on a few secrets of her success and left us wanting more.
Could you give some personal background? Where did you grow up?
I was born in the Abington area but grew up in Blue Bell, PA.
How long have you been bartending?
I have been a bartender in West Chester for about 10 years now. I started my bartending career at The Restaurant and Bar in 2000. I am currently at Side Bar and Restaurant
How have you survived ‘in the biz’ so long?
I have worked ‘in the biz’ for almost 16 years now, and I have pretty much done every job that you can in this industry. I enjoy meeting new people everyday and also making new friends out of regulars.
What are your tactics for staying calm when encountering rude or wasted customers?
I just have to remind myself that these people are probably not being themselves and deal with the situation the best I can.
How would you describe the Side Bar crowd?
Side Bar has a pretty diverse crowd. You can find old and young there but I would have to say the average customers are late twenties to mid thirties. We tend to have a lot of repeat customers which almost gives Side Bar a family feel.
Favorite memory of Side Bar so far?
Watching it grow into a West Chester staple has been awesome!
Best/ worst bar etiquette?
If customers know how to order drinks correctly it makes a bartenders job 100% easier.
What comes easiest to you as a bartender?
Bartending to me has become second nature. I enjoy doing it and can’t imagine leaving the industry anytime soon.
Favorite summer event in town?
I have always enjoyed The Restaurant Festival even though I have worked every one of them for the last 10 years. It’s a fun day with a lot of drinkers and usually people that you don’t get to see on a regular basis. It’s almost like a reunion of people that either moved away or that just can’t get out as much as they use to.
On my day off, I can’t wait to…
I usually spend my days off relaxing. Whether it’s in town having lunch with my boyfriend Adam and friends or going to AC for a few days.
Signature Drink?
I would have to say my signature drink would be a Patron Raspberry Margarita (see recipe below). It’s delicious! You can find it on our drink menu at Side Bar too!
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