Regular readers know that I spend the vast majority of my substantial bar time at Shenanigans.  I’m likely the most regular regular there.  Although I actually only visit the bar on days that end in “y”.

Anyway, thinking that regular status makes you something special is a fool’s game.  I got reminded of that fact last night.  Now, I’m not in the bar biz but from my perspective as a customer you should never let someone sit there with an empty glass.  In fact, you should ask “another?” before the glass is empty.  That’s good for the drinker and good for the bar.

Last night I arrived at the bar and ordered up a gin and soda, my preferred drink of choice these days (low in carbs).  One of the owners was tending bar and engaged in conversation with the customers sitting next to me.  And my glass got empty with no offer for more.  So, I sat there patiently (well, patiently for me) and waited.  And waited.  Finally, he noticed my empty glass, picked it up, and emptied it into the sink.  Then continued his conversation.

I was both gobsmacked and a little pissed  Well, I can take a hint, so I paid for my one drink and left.  My regular barkeep noticed I was an unhappy camper and tried to ask what was wrong, but I waved her off and walked out.

Went to Dolce Vita next door, got greeted by name, and promptly served my second gin and soda of the night.  I also got a message from the bar owner and my bartender friend apologizing.  I told them not to worry about it.  Seriously, I could have fucking asked for a drink but I didn’t think I should have to do that.  See?  You start thinking there is some privilege to being a regular and you are going to be disappointed.

I didn’t find the service at Dolce much better (my glass set there empty again and I had even less patience by now).  So, I went to Scrooge and had another drink.  They treated me well and I saw a few people I knew there, but I was admittedly in a foul mood at this point.  So it was one and out.

I next decided to meander over to the new Debut location.  I was in there last Friday night, but when I arrived it was late and I was already wasted. I vaguely recall ringing the bell (drinks for the house) a couple of times.  It’s an expensive way to buy popularity.  But last night I had the place to myself.  Owner Polly was there and there was one other bar staff working, a gal named Jin Hee.

Jin Hee had been there Friday as well, but in my inebriated condition I hadn’t really noticed her.  As soon as I arrived last night I knew she looked familiar.  And for good reason.

Time for work now.  I’ll tell you that story another time