Behind the Bar: Todd Shlanta
Todd Shlanta
Fish Market Anchor Bar
105 & 107 King Street
Old Town Alexandria
703-836-5676
Fishmarketva.com
Todd serves up “The Big Mary” – Old Bay rimmed 32 oz Schooner of Tito’s handmade vodka and house made Fish Market Bloody Mary mix garnished with Italian Salami, fresh celery, two big shrimp and a lemon!
Todd is behind the bar Wednesday and Friday nights and from open to close on Saturdays.
How did you get started in the bartending business?
I started waiting tables in college and as soon as I turned 21 I jumped behind the bar.
What is your biggest bartender pet peeve?
People who ask me for a FREE drink.
What is the cleverest line anyone has given you with the hopes of getting a “free” drink?
See above.
What is the best/worst pick-up line you have heard at the bar?
There are NO good pick-up lines, but one of my favorites is one of my regulars. “Hi, I’m “Steve”, want a Fireball?”
Tell us about an interesting encounter you’ve had with a customer(s).
One night George Clooney came into the bar I was working at in D.C. It was a slow night and we just hung out and watched/talked sports for a few hours. Awesome guy!!
If you could sit down and have a drink with anyone – past or present – who would that be?
This is a tough one, but I would have to pick Bo Jackson. He was my idol growing up. In my eyes, the best athlete ever!
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