Last night, after checking out the "New Witch" show at Paper Boat Boutique & Gallery, 2375 S. Howell Ave., my friend and I went to the Hi-Hat Garage for drinks. When we got there, it was just after 10 p.m., and the place was still pretty empty. We grabbed two seats at the bar, with plans to have a cocktail, chat a little and move on to Jamo's, 1800 N. Arlington Pl. 

Three-and-a-half hours later, we were still saddled up to the same bar, and having a blast -- partially due to The Garage's great bartenders. I wish I had asked their names, because all three of them were really good, and one was superb. My friend ordered a Chardonnay, and after one sip she said it tasted like the big jug of Rhine wine you ignore in the back of the fridge. The bartender offered it to her for free, but she declined, saying it was too awful for consumption, even as a freebie. He then offered her another glass of wine in exchange, and was totally laid back about it.

For the remainder of the evening, he checked in with us often -- once as a robot -- and joked around while making drinks for others. At one point he plopped down three shot glasses and let us pick a shot. (We chose The Knot, an Irish whiskey that's 100 proof.)

By midnight, The Garage was swamped with partiers and these bartenders never stopped moving, looking around to see who needed what and making upbeat conversation. They created great energy that contributed to the reason why we stayed way past the witching hour. Thanks, guys.