Angel Salavec
Maui Arts & Cultural Center–Pavilion Courtyard bars
How did you get a job there?
My boss Luana Argel witnessed my hard work ethic and positive attitude while setting up for another vendor and offered me a job. Luckily I already had prior experience as a bartender, and was looking for another job!
What spirit do you like to work with the most? what is the last drink you made with it?
I think vodka is the most versatile. I enjoy making these tasty lil martini’s called “chocolate cake”. which is vodka & frangelico shaken till chilled cold with a rim of sugar & a lemon slice. …delicious!
What is the last incredible wine or beer you drank? What made it spectacular?
I really like our Sam Adams Oktoberfest because of it’s dark amber color, and it’s bold yet refreshing taste.
If you could change one thing about the drinks business on Maui what would it be?
Well, I have a dream of opening my own Bar in this lifetime, but I’m constantly hearing how difficult it is to get permits etc, to open one on Maui.
What is your favorite happy hour on Maui?
“Monkeypod” has a pretty darn nice happy hour with tasty cocktails & pupu’s.
What is your bar’s signature drink/wine/beer?
It’s ever changing. We’re constantly changing our menus to suit the the performance of the evening. We offer drink specials that complement the show or artist being featured.
What is YOUR signature drink or go to wine or beer in your selection?
I love dark rum. Myers and pineapple juice with a spritz of soda & a slice of lime is always a refreshing tropical treat.
When you are making a cocktail what is the most important thing?
Engaging the customer while quickly making their drinks with a smile 🙂
I think people appreciate when you’re not grumpy and slow.
Who or what influences you outside of the beverage business?
Art and music. I make custom Dia de los Muertos art. I spend all of my spare time trying to get my etsy shop loaded with colorful skull art to share with the world.
Lets say your pitching an investor who wants you to open your ultimate bar. What is your concept? Where is it located?
I can’t tell you, it’s a secret.(Unless you’re an investor) But I will tell you that’s it’s a BEAUTIFUL Rum Bar. I’d love it to be in Paia or Haiku but it would probably do better in Kihei or Lahaina…. Lahaina
Name one new liquor/beer/wine you tasted recently. What was your impression?
“Patron Cafe” – Excellent in Coffee, on the rocks or with leche for a delicious
“Brave White Bull”
What are your regulars like?
Since the MACC bar is currently only open during MACC events, our patrons change with the scenery. From locals coming to see their families perform in Hula shows, to locals and tourists alike venturing in for a variety of acts like big-name concerts or free community festivals. From our more “environmentally aware/ free thinkers” who often show up to support the Ted X talks and film fests, to a younger more “hip” crowd that you’ll see at the “The Shins” or MACC’s ArT=Mixx, which features cutting edge visuals, costumes and heavy bass electronic dance music. The MACC is very versatile and so are our regulars!
What is one interesting thing about being a bartender on Maui?
Connecting with all different personalities and working with great people. It’s easy to be segregated into your little community here on Maui because nobody wants to drive from one town to the next. But bartending at the MACC puts you in touch with everyone on the island because they ALL come here at some point.
What makes a good bartender? Why are you one?
Eye contact, speed, consistency, and a good sense of humor are essential. Well, the humor helps. Our Bars aren’t really set up to lounge at, so working fast is essential to keep the crowd moving along.
MAUI ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER HAPPIEST HOURS – Tue, Oct 9. While attending events at the MACC, enjoy many low prices offered at their bar. $4-$5 Drafts and bottles; $6.50-$8 Wines by the glass; $6 Wells, $7 Premiums, and $8 Top Tiers. The bar opens 2 hours before events begin. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, (One Cameron Way, Kahului); 808-; 242-2787; www.mauiarts.org/
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