I have discovered that bartenders often possess a unique blend of charisma and insight, making them some of the most captivating individuals I have encountered throughout my life. Many of them exhibit keen street smarts, a sense of humor, and a wealth of travel experiences, all while maintaining a profound self-awareness of both themselves and their environment. Their diverse life stories give them a remarkable wisdom and empathy towards others, and they have a natural talent for storytelling that draws people to them.
This September, my Bartender of the Month is Liza Danger, a name that sounds like a spy or soap opera star, and she is a delightful addition to the Lantern Trash family at the Golden Lantern.
Originally from Seattle, Liza moved to New Orleans about a decade ago for the Tales of the Cocktail event, an experience that ignited her passion for the city and its vibrant community. After entrusting her Seattle bar, The Octopus Bar, to her capable business partner and staff, she relocated to New Orleans approximately three and a half years ago. Liza has been a part of the Golden Lantern for over two years, with some intermittent breaks, and she dreams of establishing her own business in the city to further contribute to the local community. Embracing the spirit of New Orleans, she has become a beloved figure among the Lantern’s regular patrons and actively supports various causes that uplift both the city and the LGBTQ+ community.
Liza seamlessly blends professionalism with a warm, festive ambiance at the Lantern. Her expertise in mixology is evident through her creation of various specialty cocktails, including the award-winning Ruby Mainsail, which features a simple yet delightful combination of quality vodka, pink grapefruit juice, fresh lemon juice, rosemary syrup, and soda water, garnished with a lemon wheel and a sprig of rosemary. Another standout is the High Tide, a refreshing vodka lemonade enhanced by a float of lavender syrup and a lavender rock candy swizzle stick.
While the Golden Lantern is renowned for its Bloody Marys, Liza’s unique garnishes and delicious scratch mix have made a lasting impression on customers. I have a particular fondness for Bloody Marys, especially when they come with creative garnishes.
When asked about her drink of choice when out, Liza simply opts for a press accompanied by a shot of Jameson. In the cocktail world, a “press” typically refers to a refreshing blend of lemon-lime soda and club soda, often enjoyed with various spirits, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. You can also combine a press with a liquor such as a Vodka Press.
Liza possesses a wealth of skills as a bartender, with her passion for hospitality and speed standing out as her greatest strengths. She describes her role as a blend of therapist, line cook, dishwasher, and bartender, all aimed at ensuring guests leave with smiles, a bit of tipsiness, and a desire to return. Liza expresses gratitude for her supportive coworkers and the loyal local patrons who contribute to the bar’s vibrant atmosphere, making her shifts enjoyable. With two decades of experience in various bar environments, she has accumulated myriad memories that reflect the industry’s unique charm. She emphasizes, however, the importance of customer etiquette, urging patrons to wait for their drinks to be completed and to refrain from touching the straws, as cleanliness is paramount.
She told me, and I love her comment, “I know that I’m very fortunate and lucky to live in this magical city.” And we are lucky to have fabulous people like Liza moving to our city everyday.
Liza also highlights her academic achievements, having graduated at the top of her class in design and marketing, alongside her creative side hustles in graphic design, custom framing, and jewelry making. Additionally, she is ordained, ready to officiate weddings if the occasion arises. For those wishing to meet Liza, known affectionately as “The Girl in the Black Dress,” she typically works Wednesday through Friday from 8 PM to 2 AM. The Golden Lantern is located at 1239 Royal Street in the French Quarter.
