Sometimes you meet a bartender who just immediately endears himself to you. My bartender spotlight this month is one of those people.
I am talking about the wonderful Nick Renuoff at the Phoenix Bar, located at 941 Elysian Fields Avenue. Maybe it is his twisted sense of humor, his sharp wit, his ability to make a strong drink or his devilish smile. I am not sure what it is, but he has personality and charm exuding out of him.
Born and raised in Metairie, Nick is about to hit his two year anniversary at the bar. The Rum House on Magazine is where he learned to bartend as well as at the Hilton Resort on Pensacola Beach for a brief stint after Hurricane Ida. I could just see working at a beach bar like some kind of Black Mirror version of the movie Cocktail where Tom Cruise was deliciously evil.
Joking aside, Nick is a true professional behind the bar. He is a conscientious and hard worker. He knows how to work a crowded bar taking care of customers quickly and efficiently.
When I asked him if he has created any drinks or shots, his answer was cute. “I mean with the Phoenix being a neighborhood dive bar, you get your choice of a liquor and a mixer, if you’re nice I’ll even throw in ice. But seriously, I LOVE making a green tea shot, the base is my favorite liquor, my best friend, Jameson.”
When he drinks, it is a Watermelon High Noon and a shot of Jameson, but he loves a good espresso martini if it’s a crafty cocktail bar. Who doesn’t love a great espresso martini.
He also admits that his best asset behind the bar is definitely his personality and attitude. “A great personality and attitude are invaluable for any bartender. I can effortlessly match any vibe: if you want to get wild, let’s get wild. If you prefer not to talk, that’s cool—we can enjoy some quiet, awkward eye contact while you sip your cocktail. And if you want to reminisce about what our wonderful city was like in the ’80s, I’m all ears and ready to take notes,” he explains.
The Phoenix is more than a neighborhood bar, it is quite an institution known for good times, good cocktails and maybe a little naughtiness. So when I asked him what was the craziest or funniest thing he had seen as a bartender; he coyly answered “I’ve witnessed so many wild and hilarious moments behind the bar, but I wouldn’t want to spill anyone’s secrets. You’ll just have to swing by and see what unfolds firsthand!”
I personally love the Phoenix seeing it is my neighborhood watering hole, being literally two blocks from my house, so I understand the merits and warmth of this bar. It has seen me through good and bad times. Nick’s answer to the question about what he loves about being a bartender at the Phoenix encapsulates the sense of community behind this place.
“I love being a bartender because it allows me to meet new people, hear their stories, and build connections with regulars. Each day behind the bar is unique, full of surprises, and brings new experiences. Working at the Phoenix is particularly special to me because of its rich history and community-driven atmosphere. Clint Taylor, the owner, is one of the most service-oriented people I’ve ever met. His dedication to supporting local community groups and always being there for the community makes working at the Phoenix a truly joyful and rewarding experience.”
As far as pet peeves go, his personal one is people snapping their fingers to get a bartender’s attention. “I promise, I see you. If you don’t think I see you, use your words, never snap.”
Nick does his part for our LGBTQ+ community in many ways. He has a passion for youth development. He also serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for New Orleans Pridefest whose mission each year is to provide a space for our queer community to gather and celebrate the strength, determination and infinite beauty of our LGBTQIA friends and family. This year’s event will be June 14th. Those interested in volunteering can reach him at nick@nolapridefest.com. Additionally, he also volunteers with a national youth non-profit.
And for the sports lovers out there, he recently ended his second term as Treasurer for the Crescent City Rougaroux, New Orleans’ queer-inclusive rugby team, where he also served as the Fundraising Chair. “This team has become a significant part of my life, and I’ve made some of my best friends through it. If you’re interested in learning more, be sure to follow the Rougaroux on social media—no prior sports experience necessary, as I can attest.”
And one more little tidbit about Nick is he has a secret small obsession with Pokémon.
If you want to meet the fabulous Nick in person, you can generally catch him at the Phoenix on Friday or Saturday nights.
