Oh, and you’re wearing a silly Christmas hat. At the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
Mmm…swizzle stick and hot buttered rum.
Dude. Serioulsy. My job is awesome.
For starters, the setting. I always loved the Ca d’Zan Lounge’s terrace, which overlooks the Hyatt Marina with a peek at the bay. But before Wednesday’s class I’d never been to the Bay View Bar and Grill, which gives, as it promises, a direct view of the water from its horseshoe-shaped bar. This was where Copy Editor Megan, Biz 941 Editor Susan and I joined about 15 or so other women (what’s up, guys? No love for the eggnog?) for Ritz bartender Peter Whitely’s instructional on seven of his own holiday-themed potent potables. And while we’ve repeatedly praised bartender Pete here at the magazine, it should still be said that he’s a master of both sides of bartending: the palate for beverages and the personality for bar-goers. That’s really something that can be said for most if not all Ritz employees, but for Pete especially: They make you feel as though you actually belong there. (That includes all the valets who kept a straight face while handling the Seafoam Monster, may she rest in peace.)
Copy Editor Megan and I show off our bounty.