Most Valuable Bartender Competition
Monday, January 28th, 2008

The Most Valuable Bartender Competition was held January 28, 2008 at Glass Ultra Lounge. The six competing bartenders (below) were Sean Friedmann of Big Kahuna, Katie Dombroski of Blackwell’s Restaurant, Jesse Roenbeck of T.G.I. Friday’s, Anthony Gulotta of Michael Anthony’s Restaurant, Eileen Giambone-Licona of Popei’s Clam Bar, and Bob Grotticelli of Granny O’Shea’s Irish Pub. Each bartender was challenged to create an original cocktail recipe using Captain Morgan Parrot Bay Rum.

Jesse Roenbeck (below) of TGI Friday’s in Lake Grove took home the coveted crown of Most Valuable Bartender. Roenbeck named his winning creation, “Morgan’s Mates Mojito,” which features goji berries and pomegranate liqueur. 

Second and third place bartenders were also honorably mentioned – Anthony Gulotta of Michael Anthony’s Restaurant in Wading River for his creation “Pirates’ Booty”, which includes toasted coconut and raspberry; and Sean Friedman of Big Kahuna Bar and Grill in Dix Hills for his recipe, “Le Jolie Rouge,” which contains crème de cocoa and marinated pineapples.