cheers to joe gomes – 50 years and the perfect pour

July 30th, 2009

A keen ear and an ability to talk to anyone has served Joe Gomes well over the years at Park Hyatt Toronto – 50 years to be exact. That’s how long he has been behind the bar at the hotel’s Roof Lounge.  Built in the 1940′s, the Roof Lounge was the second bar in the city to receive a cocktail license. The deep suede wall coverings, rich leathers, fireplace, and faint jazz soundtrack give it a 1950′s Rat Pack vibe. Over the years, Joe has shaken and stirred his renowned martinis for famed guests like Jane Russell, John Wayne, and even the Queen.

He admits to the Globe and Mail that part of being a bartender is being a psychologist. He often takes the glass is half-full approach, asking what is there really to complain about? “You’re here enjoying your drink. The bar is filled with good people. How bad can things really be?”  Joe still works the 5pm-2am shift with no plans of quitting anytime soon.  Talk about stamina, this September will be his 34^th year serving celebs and industry giants at the parties that overtake the roof top during the Toronto International Film Festival.

Get an inside peek at Joe’s life behind the bar here.

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