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Bartenders are the unsung heroes of community connection who serve as uniquely pivotal figures within the social and cultural ecosystem of their city. More than just drink slingers; bartenders are vital community connectors creating meaningful bonds with their guests. Stationed at the heart of social interaction, they foster a welcoming atmosphere of belonging around the bar where strangers can become acquaintances, friends and even chosen family. With a listening ear and friendly demeanor, bartenders are experts at reading the room, facilitating conversations and offering a “safe space” neutral ground for diverse individuals to connect. They help celebrate milestones, listen to stories, share laughs, provide meaningful space, and have their fingers on the local pulse of their local communities. Beyond simply pouring drinks, bartenders pour connections as they weave into the social fabric of their neighborhoods, one conversation at a time. To celebrate these special Bartender Bond builders, we have teamed up with Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey to showcase Bartender Talents who embody the vital role of bond builders and community connectors. Let’s get Bonded by the Bar with Bartender Kauri Sievers of New York City.
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What would you say is your superpower as a Bartender that builds bonds with your guests and invites them to become your regulars?
I love a good chat and a good laugh! To me, laughing is the most important. I consider myself to be pretty social and an easy-going person behind the bar. I am always there for my guests, to listen to their stories, hear about their problems or just chat about some really nerdy special interest that we share in common.
What makes your Bar a welcoming space for community in New York City to gather, meet up, make connections and build bonds?
Before renovations were even complete, and I got to check the space, I knew it was going to be exactly what Iain and Ollie (the owners) intended. Just your favorite neighborhood bar with great drinks and all the vibes. I also happen to work with some of the not only coolest, but warmest people. They really picked the perfect bunch for the team at our Bar in the East Village.
How can the Bar Industry work together to create a welcoming bar culture that fosters a sense of belonging for every guest that comes in looking for community?
I think it all comes down to creating spaces that have something for everyone. I feel that’s what really makes community, allowing differences to come together in a space that will hopefully inspire new friendships.
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Can you share a little backstory about your bond with the Regular guest who inspired your Bonded by the Bar cocktail?
Within the first few weeks of opening, I spotted someone wearing a cool beanie on named Pepper. Shortly after meeting Pepper, I found out that she is also fellow industry. She’s got the BEST laugh, is so easy to talk to, and is funny as hell. I appreciate that our Bar is where she wants to be for her afterwork shifty.
Which specific flavor notes in Jack Daniel's Bonded did you highlight in your Regular Bond Inspired cocktail?
It’s usually a beer and shot of whiskey for Pepper, and with warm weather creeping up, I first thought to do something shandy inspired. Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey is strong, with a nice smooth oak finish. Strawberries were my first thought, and as most friends know I am obsessed with pickles! In the end I was left with a spicy pickle strawberry whiskey lemonade, with just a touch of cider for some extra pop. Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Rye Whiskey is the perfect compliment for the fresh and fruity flavor combo I was going for with this cocktail homage to Pepper.
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Strawberry Half Sour
- 5 parts Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Rye Whiskey
- 1 part Pickled Strawberry Syrup
- 2 parts Strawberry Amaro
- ½ part Lemon Juice
- Topped with Hard Cider
Enjoy Kauri's Strawberry Half Sour cocktail with Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Rye Whiskey and we hope to see you building Bonds by the Bar turning strangers into friends and friends into family in your community.
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Tennessee Whiskey, Tennessee Rye Whiskey, and a Blend of Straight Whiskeys, 50% alc. by vol. (100 proof). Distilled and bottled by the Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee.
