Bartender Spotlight: Josephine Herbst
Jameson takes us behind the scenes to present 12 of Brooklyn’s finest bartenders – the heroes who make it all happen. Learn about the hidden talents and signature drinks, tips beyond tipping, and even hear some of their best bar stories. This week’s bartender: Josephine Herbst.
What’s the best part of your job?
I love the people I work with. There are a lot of talented musicians and hard working people. Good coworkers certainly make the job easier.
What’s your favorite song on your bar’s playlist?
I love when Kurt Vile comes on!
What’s our signature Jameson cocktail?
Old Fashioned. I love its simplicity and depth.
What’s your second passion outside of bartending?
Music! I play in a dark synth pop band called Black Sage. I also play guitar and sign sad folk songs on my own.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
Having to cut people off.
What would surprise people about being a bartender?
That you need a pretty good memory.
What has bartending taught you about life outside the bar?
The fine art of small talk.
What the biggest bartending mistake you’ve made?
I’ve definitely mixed up people’s tabs before. Luckily, by the end of the night they came back, swapped cards, and I bought them a round. No harm, no foul!
Check out more of Williamsburg’s coolest bartenders in the Bartender Spotlight, or find your own favorite mixologist at some of Williamsburg’s best bars: Alligator Lounge, Kent Ale House, Knitting Factory, Lucky Dog, Pete’s Candy Store, The Charleston, The Gibson, The Gutter, Skinny Dennis, Union Pool, Whiskey Brooklyn, Zablozki’s, Rough Trade, National Sawdust, Greenpoint Beer & Ale, Barcade, Brooklyn Bowl, Baby’s All Right, and The Craic. Please enjoy responsibly.