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.

*My set up for Cassie’s Grilled Pineapple and Turmeric Cocktail*

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.