Jonathan Peterson
found at: J Restaurant (Hartford)
How often do you see trends in drinks change?
It's a very fluid market. Every six months some new flavor comes out, either vodka or rum. And because of that the distributors push cocktails and suggest drinks to promote new stuff. Trends change so quickly that it's hard to keep up. I will say that whiskey drinks are making a comeback.
Do you find that patrons are more responsible now versus 15 years ago?
Absolutely because no one can get away with drinking and driving anymore. People now plan who the designated driver will be and I see this all the time. It's not that great for me but in the grand scheme of things it's a safe thing.
What happens when someone walks out without paying?
We don't have that type of clientele that dine and dash. It's only happened to me twice in my career and unfortunately you have to eat it. You really have to be aware of who has paid and who has not.
Who are the best tippers?
Young, single businessmen, entrepreneurs as a whole are the best tippers. But sometimes I'm surprised, you just never know how certain people will tip.
