"Surprise Me" Is The WORST Bar Order!

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! In Episode 43 of Bartender Bangaz, Mark the Shark sits down at All and Sundry in NYC with beverage consultant, mixologist, and expert judge on E!’s hit show Cocktail Wars, Melissa Brooke! Melissa breaks down her unique journey—from starting out in Hollywood film production (working at Entertainment Tonight, Miramax, and DreamWorks) to stepping behind a dive bar for guest shifts, climbing to fine dining, and ultimately consulting on beverage programs nationwide. In this episode, we cover:Behind the Scenes of E!’s Cocktail Wars: What it's really like on set judging drinks alongside Lance Bass, Joey Fatone, and celebrity guest judges like Seth Green, Lauren Graham, and Bron Strowman. Dive Bars vs. Fine Dining: Transitioning between fast-paced dive bar energy and elevated mixology. The Golden Rules of Bartending: Advice for new bartenders, common mistakes, and how to command respect while managing a bar team. Behind the Bar Etiquette: Why bartenders hate the phrase "surprise me," how to handle "make it strong" orders, and reading the room before ordering a complex cocktail. Industry Trends: Pre-batching, draft cocktails, the rise of elevated free-spirited mocktails, and avoiding toxic garnishes. Follow Bartender Bangaz:Instagram: @BartenderBangazHost: Mark "Mark the Shark"Guest: Melissa Brooke.