Crocker’s Richard Mendez

Anyone who thinks being a bartender is an easy job has never been a bartender. Talk about a multi-tasker! The last time I drove a stick shift car — a 1979 VW Rabbitt, by the way — I got pretty good at multi-tasking in that I could drive the car, shift gears, change the 8-track tape, drink a coke and eat a hamburger all at the same time.

Being a bartender is like doing that, in multitudes. One day when you’re sitting at the bar trying to come up with a good pickup line for that twink across the way, watch the bartender as he monitors the door, the people waiting on drinks, the drunk who crossed over, the lesbians about to fight over who’s paying for the U-Haul, the Bud Light delivery man waiting on his signature and a host of other chores.

Get the picture? Now imagine doing this for years and years, which this month’s Bartender of the Month has been doing at Crocker, and think again about how easy being a bartender is.

The Montrose Star August Bartender of the Month is Richard Mendez.

Where is your hometown?
I’m from Houston, Texas.

Single, married, engaged, or do you like to keep ’em guessing?
I am married to Leo Scott.

Tell us about your experience bartending.
For 11½ years I was at the Montrose Mining Company and the past ten years at Crocker Bar.

Do you have a drink specialty?
Mexican water snake makers. It’s with Don Julio, Blanco, peach schnapps and sweet-and-sour.

Tell us about your philosophy on being a good bartender?
My philosophy on being a good bartender is that it’s about much more than making great drinks – it’s about creating a welcoming experience for every guest. I believe in being friendly, attentive and professional while working efficiently, even during busy shifts. I take pride in making drinks consistently, keeping my workspace clean and organized and communicating well with both customers and my team. I also believe responsible alcohol service is essential, and I always prioritize guest safety and respect. At the end of the day, I want every customer to leave feeling like they had great service and a positive experience, because that’s what keeps people coming back.

Besides the money, what do you enjoy about being a bartender?
Besides the money, I enjoy the social aspect. I like talking to people, making cocktails and working in an environment where no two days are the same.

Do you get hit on a lot and how do you respond?
If someone says, “You’re handsome,” I might say, “Thanks! That’s kind of you.”

What is your pet peeve about being a bartender?
Patrons asking for “something good” without giving any clue about preferences (sweet, strong, fruity, smoky, etc.).

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever seen from behind the bar?
The craziest thing was a power outage in the middle of a packed shift, with the staff finishing service by flashlight until everyone could leave safely.

If you were not a bartender, what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t bartending, I would likely be pursuing a career in hospitality, event planning or customer service. I enjoy connecting with people, staying organized and creating positive experiences. Bartending has taught me how to multi-task, communicate effectively and remain calm under pressure — skills I would continue to use in another career where I can help others and continue growing.

Tell us something people do not know about you and will be surprised to learn.
I have lived in London for four years, two years in San Francisco and six months in Sydney, Australia. I have played in the Montrose Softball League for 20 years and competed in the Gay Softball World Series and Gay Games.

Are you on social media?
You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter (X).

If you were a superhero, who would you be?
Superman!

Where and when can we catch you for a drink?
Just look for me at Crocker where I’ve been for the last 10 years.

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