Saturday February 04, 2012 | February 2012 Issue

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Behind the Bar
Steve Dolan - Bartender

Bugsy’s Sports Bar - Penalty Box
111 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 683-0313
www.bugsyspizza.com


Steve is serving a chilled Irish Mist with a Yuengling on tap.


How did you get started in the bartending business?

I’ve only bartended full time for the past 3 years, all at Bugsy's however this is my 39th year in the restaurant business. I started as a 14-year-old dishwasher and have never stopped. I have been fortunate to open, or be part of opening, several hundred venues in 30 states and in Canada. Three years ago while opening a new concept in the DC area I got tired of the corporate life, went home to tell my 3 beautiful kids that dad needed a break. I told them I was going to look for a bartender’s job for a month or two and then get back to normal. Well, 3 years later I’m still at it and hope to be for many more years at Bugsy's.

What is your bartender pet peeve?

I really only have one pet peeve…know what you like to drink and don’t be rude. It takes work to be rude and it is simple to be nice.

What's the best line somebody has used to get a free drink from you?

The best way to get a free drink doesn’t take a line; you get it based mainly on the way you act. You’ve got to bring something to the table.

What's the most memorable pickup line you've heard?

Being in a sports bar the best pick up line I’ve heard was "You want to play ball?"

Can you tell me an interesting story?

This might classify as an "interesting story" but it’s simply how I feel. We all live in a time of uncertainty - money issues, health care issues, and raising families. Bugsy's and all of the other fine establishments in Old Town offer a safe haven. Have a pint, watch a game, and make a friend, its just not that hard. I’m too old, too fat, and too opinionated to change my way of thinking at 53 years old. If you get a chance, come see "the fat man" and I promise you’ll enjoy the time.  Bugsy’s has created a great place to drink, eat and kibitz - our guest’s keep it all going.

Who would you want to have a drink with and why?

My foster father who passed away 9 years ago. One, because he just loved this place, and two, to thank him for teaching me that family and friends are what’s important.

Steve is Behind the Bar Monday-Saturday 11:30-5:30 and Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights till closing.

 

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Behind the Bar (article & image) © Chester Simpson.com
 

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