Tony’s Corner Pocket’s Gilbert Hernandez

By Johnny Trlica

Based on industry standards, the average bartender stays at a job two to four years with about 73 percent leaving a bar job within the first year of employment. So, when we hear of a bartender who has had just three bartending jobs in 27 years, the indications are there must be something special about that bartender.

Gilbert Hernandez is definitely special and, deservedly so, has become a Montrose legend. From Paradise to the 611 and now at Tony’s Corner Pocket, Gilbert has a large group of loyal friends and customers.

Long time patron Mychal Bass said, “Gilbert is truly one of the best bartenders and one of the best parts of Houston’s gay bar scene. Some of my best early memories at 611 were sitting at his bar, having real conversations. He does things his own way, but he keeps people coming back, serves damn good drinks and always shows up for his people.”

Jackie Fairchild said, “I’ve been stalking him since 1999! My favorite bartender!

Myra Chargois said, “I’ve been knowing Gilbert for years. When you get a drink from Gilbert, it’s going to be a stiff drink. He’s personable and friendly and you never have to wait long for a drink.”

“He makes the best vodka punch ever! He is always cheerful and outgoing and just fun to be around,” Linda Reeder said.

Varsity bartender and one of Gilbert’s former coworkers said, “Gilbert is one of those bartenders that you’ll never forget. He has a way of pulling you in, whether in conversation or his story telling. He makes each one of his guests feel like family.”

Gilbert Hernandez is the March Bartender of the Month.

Name: Gilbert Hernandez

Where is your hometown?
Well, I was born in Houston, but by the time I was two days old, I was living in California. I then moved to Houston in April 1999 and been here ever since!

Single, married, or do you like to keep ’em guessing?
I’m single and have been single for years now and plan on staying single. LOL.

We first met at Paradise bar and then at the 611 _– fun times! Tell us about your experience bartending.
Yes, I started my bartending experience in 1999 at a bar called Paradise. I was there until it closed and moved onto a bar called 611, where I remained for almost 13 years. And now I’m at home at Tony’s Corner Pocket where I’ve been for nearly 12 years. So, all in all, I’ve been bartending in the Montrose for 27 years straight and I’ll take this opportunity to point out a few people who followed me the whole 27 years. You, of course, Jackie, and Richard Purcell, just to name a few who have been on the journey with me the entire time.

What is your philosophy on being a good bartender?
Well, I always tell less experienced bartenders that the key to having regulars is to remember their drink, their name, of course and the last thing you guys talked about. If you can do that as a bartender, you’ll find yourself with a bunch of regulars, so to speak.

Besides the money, what do you enjoy about being a bartender?
I enjoy the part about meeting people. People from all over the place, people with different
backgrounds, etc. I consider myself a people person and bartending fits right in with that.

What is your pet peeve about being a bartender?
I’m not sure if it’s a secret but most bartenders do not like to be asked to make a drink without any input. Those of you who do not know what they want to drink, just point us in the right direction. LOL.

If you were not a bartender, what would you be doing?
Before bartending, I managed at Costco Wholesale for 10 years. I imagine I would still be doing something in retail management.

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever seen from behind the bar?
At my previous employer, I witnessed people being arrested. I’ve even witnessed undercover TABC agents arresting people for violations of different sorts.

Tell us something people do not know about you and will be surprised to learn.
That I’m biracial and I am adopted. Adopted within the family so that adds a twist. LOL. (Gilbert is held dearly by his great nieces and nephews.)

I heard you’ve had some health issues this past year. How are things today?
Yes, unfortunately in January 2025 I was diagnosed with stage-four colon cancer, and I’ve been dealing with that since. As to how I’m feeling, it’s day by day. It’s a struggle, but I have an incredible support system. That includes my chosen family at Tony’s Corner Pocket, my incredible support system. I will take this opportunity to say to Tony Vacarro, how appreciative I’ve been since my diagnosis. He has been no less than a saint in his support during this whole ordeal. I love Tony and I thank him for all his support. As well as the community. Thank you everyone for your love.

Are you on social media?
No, I don’t do social media, but I’ve been encouraged to start something up and I’m thinking about doing that real soon.

Where and when can we catch you for a drink?
I’m typically working Friday nights, and the rest of the week is just up in the air because of my health. Stop by anytime at Tony’s and have a good time, whether I’m there or not. Much love to all of y’all. Thank you.

Special thanks to Miguel Hernandez (MyKey) for his assistance in preparing this article.

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