Brodie has spent the past 3 years bartending in Alexandria. As the woman behind the day bar at Union Street Public House, she enjoys chatting with the regulars and shucking oysters herself.
On Tap: What do you like about the day shift?
Brodie Evans: It’s not crazy fast paced, which means you get more time to interact with the customers and actually talk to people. The way the bar is set up really lends itself to conversation.
OT: What are the most popular oysters on the menu?
BE: The southern fried oysters are very popular – particularly for happy hour.
OT: Do you get requests for oyster shots?
BE: Yes. We start with the oyster in the glass, pour vodka on top and a smidgen of cocktail sauce and horseradish. I think it’s a terrible way to ruin an oyster but if they like it, then that’s fine!
OT: What would you suggest to someone who wants to try oysters for the first time?
BE: I would say get half a dozen raw and just go for it. Try each one a different way – one with horseradish, one on a cracker, one by itself - until you figure it out.
OT: If you could visit only one bar or restaurant for an entire month, other than this one, which would it be?
BE: I would say Southside in Alexandria, because it’s walking distance from where I live.
OT: What is the most popular drink here?
BE: Beer. We usually have 15 seasonals on tap and we change them out all the time. At happy hour they are half off so it’s a really good deal for a tasty beer.
Catch Brodie on the day shift Monday through Saturday, and Thursday nights at Union Street Public House.
Union Street Public House: 121 South Union St., Alexandria, VA; 703-548-1785; www.unionstreetpublichouse.com
