A typical night in 5 Points usually consists of a plethora of students (probably under the influence) celebrating the much-anticipated end to a stressful school week. Students stumble around from bar to bar looking for drinks and a good time because if we’re going to work hard, we’re going to play hard too. Inside of the bar, people eagerly push their way to the bartender in hope for a quick drink, but most of the time it’s not as fast as we expect, and people begin to get angry and impatient. After a taxing week, why should we have to wait to have a good time, right? Now, imagine being on the other side; the bartender. Or, taking it further; the owner of one of the most popular bars in 5 Points. After a long and stressful week, the hard work doesn’t stop for a bartender. They work hard, and then work harder.
Bradley Morgan, owner and bartender of Breakers Bar and Grill, knows exactly what goes on behind the scenes during a night in 5 Points. On a Friday night, while most people are complaining about the long day of classes, Brad has been at work since 11 a.m. and can look forward to a bartending shift that will last into the wee hours of the morning.
The absolute worst experiences for Brad are during the notorious fights and shootings that occur in 5 Points. Not only does he worry for the safety of his staff and customers, but for the safety of everyone downtown.
But despite these negatives, there are some awesome positives that come with being a bartender in 5 Points, and Brad doesn’t let the negatives bring him down. Instead, he loves interacting with his customers and getting them involved as much as possible.
You may have seen girls on their 21st birthday wearing flashy crowns with a list of 21 tasks to accomplish by the end of the night. Not only does Brad let the birthday girl stand behind the bar and make drinks, but he also tries to help them get through their tasks. “Seeing the list of the 21 things they have to do is always funny,” said Brad. “I try to go through and help them check off as many as I can.” He’s seen some pretty crazy things on those checklists– from a girl having to snag a pair of boxers from one of the door guys, to the girl who had to kiss a “bum.” So ladies, you all know where to go for your 21st.
The tips aren’t so bad either. “Of course the extra money is great,” said Brad. “I have gotten a lot of great tips, some even over 200%.” Not only does he get great tips, but he also scores some occasional digits. “The best are the notes and numbers from cute girls, especially the ones that catch my eye.”
So next time you’re in 5 Points barging your way to the bar looking for a quick fix, keep in mind that the bartenders are people just like you and I. So instead of being that annoying customer at the front of the bar complaining about not getting a drink fast enough, try to have a conversation with your bartender. Chances are they would love to talk to you in the same way that Brad loves to talk with his customers.
