Master Mixologist: JEFF GLINER of Bowlmor AMF

Jeff Gliner is a graduate of Hospitality and Tourism at James Madison University in Virginia. His concentration was in Food and Beverage. Gliner started his career working in the sports sectors of the business in stadiums doing food and beverages in New York City for the Mets, the Knicks and the Rangers. He assisted in the culinary transformation of Madison Square Garden along with Jean Georges, Andrew Carmellini and Drew Nieporant. Gliner also worked in the private dining section for clients of JP Morgan Chase before coming to work at Bowlmor AMF.

Broadwayworld.com had the opportunity to interview Jeff Gliner about his career and Bowlmor AMF.

When did you first become interested in the cocktail culture?

The cocktail craze began catching fire with foodies, probably about a decade ago. I've always been in the hospitality industry, specifically food and beverage and only recently did I see cocktails taking on lives of their own. With the appearance of separate cocktail menus, specific pairings and premium pricing they're practically meals in a glass.

What innovations in mixology and bartending do you find fascinating?

Authenticity of flavors has really evolved and is truly interesting. Mixers used to come out of a bottle from the grocery store. Now mixologists are using strawberries they grow themselves, creating their own flavors of bitters, and creating meals out of garnishes.

How do restaurant and bar guests encourage your creativity?

It's all about word of mouth. Everyone has a story about a place they have been or something great they have tried. Listen and research what they spoke about and where they went. You can find out things from places you have never been and might have never planned to go to.

What are your preferred "classic cocktails" and why?

Mai Tai all the way. It can be 6 degrees out and snowing but when you have a Mai Tai the image of the last beach that you went to immediately pops up. I love that it's making a comeback.

What are some of your favorite infusions and how you like to use them in drinks?

I'm a big fan of different type of fruit extracts and purees. They are a great compliment to base liquors and guests recognize flavor profiles right away.

Tell us about a few of your signature cocktails and why they are distinctive.

Our company's best-seller is the Watermelon Mist. It's a refreshing blend of rums, citrus, and juices. For something a little more adventurous we have our Smoking Gun. It has Mezcal, Chili Liqueur, and Hot Sauce. The "wow this is different, but I love it" reaction is the best.

Give us your perfect pairing for a cocktail and a culinary selection.

I think you keep it old school with a 15-year-old Scotch served neat and a great steak. After having a few of those Scotches, you can enjoy a perfect morning pairing, a Bloody Mary and an omelet for breakfast.

Tell us a little about your company or restaurant.

Bowlmor AMF is the one of the largest operators of bowling centers in the world with 40 high-end bowling entertainment centers and 280 traditional sport centers.

To learn more about Bowlmor AMF, please visit the following web site: http://www.bowlmor.com/.

Photo Credit: Max Flatow Photography