Regarded as one of Boston’s most talented bartenders, Drink Bar Manager John Gertsen is also recognized locally and nationally as an expert on the history of cocktails. For several years he served as an integral part of the No. 9 Park bar program before collaborating with Chef Barbara Lynch on the opening of Drink. John worked closely with Chef Lynch and the design team on all aspects of Drink from the sourcing of glassware and ice to the design of the bar and the training of the talented team of bartenders.
John joined No. 9 Park in 2002 and found not only a setting to develop professionally but a mentor in Chef Lynch. Working with his colleagues he created a bar program at No. 9 Park which gained a loyal following, drawing inspiration from the bartenders of years past when bartenders were showmen and the classic cocktails were invented. John’s fastidious research, eager collaboration with the chefs, and a reverence for the history of cocktails are the hallmarks of his approach to creating a bar program.
Prior to No. 9 Park, John worked at several restaurants in Boston, eventually settling at Salamander under Chef Stan Frankenthaler. During his five-year stint John was able to explore his love for the industry by serving in a variety of positions including maitre d’, bartender, and front of house coordinator.
An avid cocktail historian, John and his cocktails have been profiled in several publications including Boston Magazine, Stuff@Night, Improper Bostonian, Esquire, The San Francisco Chronicle, Playboy, Mr. Boston Holiday Cocktail Guide, and Food & Wine. In July 2008 John traveled to New Orleans for the Pernod Ricard-sponsored Cocktail Spirit Awards. Nominated for “Bartender of the Year,” John was joined by top bartenders from cities around the world including Manhattan, San Francisco, Melbourne, and London. Also in 2008,Boston Magazine named John “Best Bartender” in its annual “Best of Boston” issue. In 2009, Drink returned to New Orleans as a Tales of the Cocktail nominee for “Best New Cocktail Program”.
As the Bar Manager of Drink, John works with Chef Lynch and Wine Director Cat Silirie and is responsible for all elements of the spirits and cocktail program including product sourcing and staff training. Recognizing the importance of staff development and education, all members of the team have become Bar Smarts certified and several bartenders including Scott Marshall, Misty Kalkofen, and Josie Packard, have received national and international accolades with John’s support.
Additionally, he continues to oversee the No. 9 Park bar program and teach classes at Stir, Chef Lynch’s demonstration kitchen. Closely collaborating with the bar teams at Drink and No. 9 Park, John continues to cultivate forward-thinking bar programs that maintain an emphasis on the history of the cocktail and preservation of traditions.
Photo: Justin Ide
