Expert Interview: Ryan Metke

Behind the Mixologist

When did you decide you wanted to be a mixologist?
I never really wanted to be one, but I just fell into it.

What trends do you see in mixology?
People are keeping it simple; everyone drinks vodka.

What countries, ingredients and places inspire your style?
It depends on the season, for example, you can't drink mojitos in the winter; they are best in the summer.

What are the most popular cocktails being shaken and mixed up these days?
Our house cocktails are popular because people know about them and ask for them. A lot of people like fancy cocktails to start out with, and then they go to vodka soda.

What is your signature drink?
I make something that depends on the person; I ask them what kind of liquor they like and then I go from there. I don't have a signature drink; I play around with a lot of things.

What is your favorite cocktail to make at home?
Margarita on the rocks made with Patron or Herradura

What beverage do you order when you are dining out or enjoying a night out on the town?
Beer or red wine

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques for the home mixologist?
Use the little pourer spouts that go on top of the bottle to pour into glass. Don't buy your bar set at Bed Bath and Beyond, use a restaurant supply place.

What is your least favorite beverage?
Anything with gin. I don't like gin.

What is your garnish of choice?
Fresh cut watermelon

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Behind the Burner: Ryan Metke, Mixologist, Bungalow 8

Ryan Metke

Ryan Metke, Head Bartender of New York City's exclusive Bungalow 8 nightclub, may be a painter by day, but his artistic passion intensifies after hours when the Florida native mixes up masterpiece martinis with a splash of southern charm. Bungalow provides Ryan with the perfect palette--a spectrum of top-of-the-line ingredients--to shake up celebrity and socialite favorites such as the Malibu, the watermelon martini, and the Cowboy.

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