Bartender Chronicles: Meet Katie Helde of Cameo
Have you ever wondered what life is like for those kind and patient people pouring shots behind the bar? This summer we’re bringing you a meet and greet with some of your favorite faces behind the bar at your favorite haunts. After the jump, Katie Helde of Cameo gives us her suggestion for the official cocktail of Brooklyn.
How long have you been a bartender? Where did you get your start?
I’ve been a bartender for a little over a year. I was a server in the restaurant industry for a long time, when I deicded that it was time to be behind the bar and make some drinks.
What are your favorite local beers to serve?
The Coney Island Mermaid Pilsener is yummy and good for summer-fun label, too.
What would be your choice for the official cocktail of Brooklyn?
I know there are a lot of whiskey drinkers around here, and whiskey’s great but I’m a tequila person, hands down. So, maybe as a compromise, I’d make the Brooklyn cocktail a tequila Old-Fashioned, which i like to make with anejo and Regan’s Orange, as well as Peychaud’s bitters, instead of Angoustra. Plus, I heard an NPR news story recently about how tequila literally has sunshine in it. (I’m a little fuzzy on the details but it was something sciencey, I swear) – who doesn’t want a little more sunshine in life?
What’s the vibe at Cameo?
Cameo is laid-back and fun but also high-octane on a weekend. We serve food til late, so people can fulfill their boozy snack needs and hey, I’m not a doctor, but in my opinion, snacking is always a good choice when you’ve been boozing.