The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager
I’ve been graced by Cassie’s skills for so many years, it’s hard to nail down when I first sat at her bar. Every time I take my seat she is on it with my fave, whiskey. Cassie Womack is a Bar Manager at Bidwell and Operations Manager at Wicked Bloom.
Cassie actually started out as a basketball player, playing overseas. She started bartending over fifteen years ago in college and then got back into bartending after realizing she loves the interaction with people. I’ve seen first hand how Cassie is intentional about building relationships with her customers.
Cassie recalls the onset of the pandemic, one day she went to work, on March 15th, and everything was suddenly shut down. Like many people, she was concerned about the effects of the pandemic on the population. Though her work at her full-time jobs ceased temporarily, fortunately, through her relationships she was able to stay employed at a local wine shop. Cassie is such a people person, and she missed her customers so much she decided to kick off virtual happy hours. Through the happy hours she was able to teach us all how to enjoy cocktails at home and have happy hour using whatever you have on hand. Cassie hopes to continue offering special cocktails for purchase and virtual happy hours to her customers.
Though Cassie is in a leadership position, her experience during this time has not been any different than her team, who she considers family. Cassie believes a family atmosphere makes everyone excited to come to work and makes customers feel comfortable. Everyone works, learns, and grows together. In this respect, she would never put her staff in situations that she would not put herself in, prioritizing safety during the pandemic.
Now more than ever it is most important for everyone to take care of themselves. Cassie encourages practicing self care and seeking out therapy if necessary to deal with the current changes in the world. She has continued to keep in touch with her fellow bartenders to encourage each other and keep their spirits up.
With the recent protests and outrage for equality and inclusion in the hospitality industry, Cassie has noticed that many people outside of the Black community are reaching in to to offer support, where none was offered previously. Though there is more awareness and support of the Black community, it is difficult to articulate the impact of that new “support” since the hospitality industry is not fully up and running. She adds that, “It will be interesting to see the state of the industry and how things progress as businesses continue to open their doors.”
“That is what bartending is all about, experiences, memories, and relationships.”
Anyone who misses their favorite bartender should check with them to see if they are offering drinks for delivery or pick up. Also join any virtual happy hours they may host to continue to maintain those relationships and bonds with your local bartender. Cassie believes that is what bartending is all about, “experiences, memories, and relationships.” Even a simple text or DM (direct message) to check on their well being at this time would be much appreciated.
I could not interview Cassie without talking about drinks. Though I always request a good whiskey recommendation, Cassie’s favorite spirit is tequila. Specifically, Casamigos at the moment. “Tequila is low in calories and clean.” Tequila is also very versatile. For more variety she recommends trying a Mezcal, which is similar to Tequila, but presents a more bold smokey flavor.
Cassie’s favorite thing to make is a grilled pineapple concoction. Slice fresh pineapple, glaze it with brown sugar, and grill it. Then infuse your favorite vodka or tequila for a kick of pineapple flavor. You can add soda and lemon if you like for a full cocktail. You can even make a (vodka) gimlet (traditionally made with 2 oz Gin, 1oz Lime Juice, ½ oz Simple Syrup).
I love grilled pineapple so I had to give this infusion a try. I went for the recipe Cassie told me that she enjoys most, with adjustments to my taste.
2 oz Grilled Pineapple Infused Civic Vodka (DC Woman-Owned )
½ oz Pineapple Juice
½ oz Tumeric Simple Syrup
½ – 1 oz Soda (I used Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water)
You catch Cassie at Bidwell in Union Market and Wicked Bloom. Cassie is kicking off her 90’s themed happy hours at Bidwell on Saturdays. These happy hours will be socially distanced with seating outside on the patio. Stop for some Social Distancing Shenanigans or to grab a drink to go.
You can follow Cassie on Instagram at @Cassien0va and @underground.bartender to be the first to hear about her upcoming podcasts.
Discover more from Flights and Foods
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
4,275 Comments
agenolx
Thanks for every other informative website. The place else could I am getting that type of information written in such an ideal means? I’ve a venture that I am simply now running on, and I have been at the glance out for such info.
non profit bookkeeping
I think this is among the most vital info for me. And i am glad reading your article.
But want to remark on few general things, The web site
style is wonderful, the articles is really nice : D. Good job, cheers
solicitor law firms
Nicely put. Thank you.
Pink Salt Trick for Weight Loss
You have remarked very interesting points! ps decent internet site.
agenolx slot
I truly enjoy reading on this internet site, it holds wonderful articles. “The longing to produce great inspirations didn’t produce anything but more longing.” by Sophie Kerr.
Bettina Buntine
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Camilla Patnode
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Ashly Burbach
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Minerva Gariepy
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Heath Using
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Niamh Weatherford
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Ken Cantu
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
Wade Chau
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
legal
Thanks a lot! Ample facts!
Pink Salt Trick
Very interesting info !Perfect just what I was looking for!
situs slot gacor
As a Newbie, I am continuously searching online for articles that can be of assistance to me. Thank you
Odette Altamirano
The Speakeasy: Interview with Cassie Womack, Bar Manager at Bidwell and Wicked Bloom, Operations Manager – Flights and Foods
blue salt trick for men
The blue salt trick for men is definitely creating a buzz online!
Many users claim it helps boost energy, stamina, and
overall male vitality in a natural way. While it sounds unconventional, it’s worth
looking into if you’re interested in alternative health hacks.
Ask ChatGPT
Audifort
Audifort sounds like an interesting option for those looking to support their hearing and overall ear health naturally.
If the ingredients truly help with reducing tinnitus or improving hearing clarity, it could be a real breakthrough for many.
I’m curious to know if anyone has tried it—did you notice any improvements?
Ask ChatGPT
vagina
Nice post. I learn something totally new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon on a daily basis.
It’s always exciting to read through articles from other
writers and practice something from their web sites.