Bartender Buddha: Kenny Burton of Donahue's Beach Grille in Madison

Kenny Burton
found at: Donahue's Beach Grille (Madison)

Being that you're a beach grille, do customers order summer cocktails all year round?

No, our cocktail list changes. The beer list is even different. We have the winter lagers and seasonal beers which are popular during that time, and Landshark that's popular now. Even though we're located close to the beach, we are open all year round. So while fruity daiquiris and mojitos are an obvious choice now, they won't be in the fall.

What's a good rock-and-roll cocktail?

I call it the Kenny Colada, which is an island-based rum cocktail. It's a nice summer drink, guys and girls both love it. I usually make these for the bands that play here because it's a good drink to start with.

Of all the establishments you've worked at, which is your favorite and why?

I like them all for different reasons. I love this business because I love the social interaction. I enjoy working at country clubs and beach grilles. I love being busy; I love the energy of the crowd, and I feel I am definitely a night-time bartender.

What's the most popular song that bands are playing right now?

Cee Lo Green, 'Forget you', all the bands are doing it and it's become quite a floor filler. But this is an establishment known for dancing.

What is the most pathetic pick-up line you've heard someone use?

I've heard a guy ask a girl, "should I buy you a drink or just give you the money?" I thought that was pretty funny — funny and pathetic.