I have always considered being a bartender as a fulfilling job. It is hard work, but you have the opportunity to meet so many people. Though in the past few years since COVID, the job has become much more challenging. But on the flip side, I think most people, I know myself included have become much more appreciative to bartenders and the well needed role they play in most people’s lives.
I decided to start 2022 off with a bang, with an amazing bartender of the month. Jeremie Aubert is a fabulous mixologist and can be found at American Townhouse. He was born and raised in a picturesque little town outside of New Orleans called Vacherie, LA. Vacherie is known as home to some of the most gorgeous plantations in the area such as Oak Alley, Laura, St. Joseph and Evergreen.
Jeremie Aubert (photo: Tony Leggio)
He had always been in love with New Orleans from a young age and loved in the city briefly after college before moving to Atlanta for seven years. Then after spending a winter in Indy and Chicago the snow made him think that he needed to get back home. However, small town life wasn’t in the cards so he came to NOLA and have been calling the city home for the last eight years. “And I would not have it any other way.”
He has been at American Townhouse since it opened last year previously working four years at
The 700 Club. Jeremie is a favorite at AT. His is proficient behind the bar making excellent libations and craft cocktails quickly and accurately. New Orleanians may have a slower pace than the rest of the country but not when we are waiting for a drink. Speed, accuracy and friendliness are important and he excels at all of those qualities. He also has the useful talent of remembering people’s drinks; an important skill in bartending.
His favorite drink to make is one of the first ones he was taught (thanks to Lil) which is a Cosmo. It’s simple, classic cocktail and can be enjoyed by anyone year round. Although when he is out and about he prefers a Crown and Coke.
“The best thing about bartending is the social atmosphere. You instantly can become the friend and confidant of total strangers. American Townhouse is not the typical gay bar. Although we are still figuring out where we are and where we’ll land, Townhouse has brought a mix of people and groups together that may not have normally mingled on their own and I like that,” he explains.
Jeremie is a marvel behind the bar from his professionalism to his own brand of sassy wit. What he does do quite well is make everyone who comes to his bar feel appreciated and that is a hard skill to replicate. Currently you can find Jeremie behind the bar Wednesday through Saturday nights and Sunday during the day. He also works during any Saints game, which actually make them more bearable lately.
When I asked him how did COVID affect you personally and professionally; and what do you foresee as the future of the hospitality/LGBT bar industry, he gave a very inspiring answer. “Obviously Covid has taken a toll on all of us at different levels. I’ve had great losses personally and learned to push myself to new levels professionally. As a city I know we will push through this and grow into things we never thought possible. Same goes for the future of LGBT bars. We’ve been through many challenges and always emerge stronger, more welcoming, more loving, bigger community. With my ticket in my hand, I can’t wait to see the Mardi Gras. We all deserve that party this year!” If you are looking for a fun evening out, go see Jeremie at American Townhouse located at 1012 North Rampart Street.
