Bartender of the week: Danny Abdoo, JR's Bar & Grill

Danny Abdoo is an icon at JR's Bar & Grill

Bartenders come and bartenders go, but Danny Abdoo is here to stay. In twelve years, Abdoo has fashioned himself into something of an icon at JR’s Bar & Grill, a popular landmark in the heart of Dallas’ gay district. Originally from Detroit, Abdoo is charming and exuberant, playful and helpful, and was more than willing to talk to me about the craft.

What’s your favorite thing about bartending?
I like interacting with people, and making sure they have a good time, like they should. It’s very rewarding. I love my job, and I love the customers, and I love the other employees.

What life lessons has bartending taught you?
It’s definitely taught me how to be more compassionate, and how to listen to people--how to lend an ear and help them deal with their own lives when they ask for advice.

What has bartending taught you about people?
Well, that there are lots of different types of people (laughs)! I’d say that 99% of them are good. I think you can usually find good inside of everybody. Some of them, you just have to look a little harder (laughs)!

Ever had any accidents while bartending?
Never anything serious. One time we were having a birthday party and I went out to get a cake. At JR’s, bartenders have to kind of squat down and crawl into the bar to get back there and work. Well, for some reason, instead of setting the cake on the counter and then going under, I carried it with me under the bar. My foot caught on the floor mat, and I fell face first into the cake!

What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen while bartending?
One day we had a customer who got a little messy, so she was escorted outside. She climbed up a tree in front of the bar, crawled onto the balcony, and came back inside and started drinking again!

 Is there someone you'd like to nominate for bartender of the week?   Shoot an e-mail to andthebartendersays@gmail.com and tell me what makes your favorite bartender so special!