Behind the Bar – Jenifer Leatherland

Lone Star Steakhouse
3141 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA
(703)-823-7827
How did you get started in the bartending business?
I started bartending after being a server for quite a few years. I’ve been bartending for 7 years now. (5 years at my current job). I found it was a great fit for me because the atmosphere is a little more relaxed and you also have a chance to get to know your guests better.
What is your bartender pet peeve?
My bartending pet peeve is – hands down – when a guest shakes their empty glass at me. I try to stay on top of everyone’s needs, however, if I do need to be reminded that someone needs a drink…. I don’t feel like it is that hard to speak.
What’s the best line somebody has used to get a free drink from you?
I think the best line someone has tried to use to get a free drink was…”Come on. Let me get one on the house, I’ll clean your bar for you”.
What’s the most memorable pickup line you’ve heard?
Probably from the time when I asked a guy if he wanted a drink and he said, “Only if you fit in the glass.” I wrote “U” on a piece of paper and dropped it in a glass. I then placed the glass in front of him. After a few good laughs and a couple of drinks, he still brings his coworkers in a few times a month.
Can you tell us an interesting story?
One night a man came in to place an order to go. I noticed he was very tall. It was almost closing time so while he waited for his order, we began to chat. I asked how tall he was. He said 6’10. He was wearing a college basketball shirt so I asked if he played. He told me his shirt was from where he went to college. Turns out he was JaMychal Green. He had just been drafted to the San Antonio Spurs the year prior. (2012) It just goes to show, you never know who is walking through your door.
Who would you most like to sit down and have a drink with?
I would love to have a drink with Ellen Degeneres. She seems so cool and down to earth. She also has a positive outlook on things. I feel like she would be full of great advice and laughing the whole time she gave it.
Jenifer is behind the bar Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat 4-10, and Fri 6-11.
Written by: Chester Simpson
If you would like to see your favorite mixologist featured here, send contact information to Chester@chestersimpson.com.