A little blurb about you:
My name is Joanne Purnell and I’m the bar manager at Flatbread in North Conway. I’m all about pizza, endless cocktail banter and spontaneous travel. Born and raised in New Hampshire, I’ve called the Mt. Washington Valley home since the late ’80s. Here, I raised my three wonderful daughters with my husband John, to whom I’ve been happily married for 34 years. Our family has always been the heart of my life, and now that our daughters are grown, I find joy in giving back to the animal welfare community.
In my free time, I dedicate myself to volunteering with the Humane Society of the United States and various shelters and rescues throughout the country. My passion for helping animals has even taken me to Puerto Rico, where I’ve participated in four high volume spay and neuter clinics.
Come visit me at Flatbreads in North Conway for a Tamworth Distilling inspired drink and let’s share some stories!
What do you think is the most underused bar tool?
Ohhh that’s a hard one! I’d have to say a jigger because of consistency. Having drinks measured out and making everyone on the staff use a jigger means the customer will receive the same drink no matter who is making it.
Favorite cocktail?
An Old Fashioned with bourbon and maple syrup. I never used to be a whiskey drinker but about 10 years ago I was out to dinner with my husband who ordered one and for some reason I decided to give it a try. The drink was so delicious it stuck with me and is now my go to cocktail.
Favorite thing to do when not behind the bar?
Anything outdoors! I spend my days mountain biking, hiking and traveling. In fact, I just got back from a quick 48-hour trip to DC! I also spend my time volunteering at various animal rescue groups around the country.
How many years have you been bartending?
26 years! I got my start at Cranmore waiting tables and the next year they asked if I could fill in behind the bar. I worked for them for many years and got my start at Flatbread about five years ago where I served for a summer with my daughter. About a year and a half ago I came back to Flatbread as a server and bartender and this past November was promoted to Bar Manager.
Favorite place in NH to visit?
I’d have to say Mount Washington. It’s a beautiful site in the middle of nowhere where one can see the bounty of New Hampshire’s landscape.
Favorite Tamworth Distilling Spirit
Dunce Whiskey! I find it to be a versatile spirit that one can enjoy on its own or in a cocktail such as our signature Life’s A Peach.
Signature Cocktail:
Life’s A Peach
2oz Dunce Whiskey
1oz Peach Puree
1oz Organic Lemon Juice
Shake and top with Soda & a Lemon Wedge
Featuring organic farm fresh food, wood fired ovens and quality craft spirits Flatbread Company is must visit when in the Mount Washington Valley. With seven locations throughout the United States and a new location under development in North Conway Flatbread strives to educate the customer on the connection between food and nature as well as use their platform to give back to the community through non-profit benefit nights.
Visit Flatbread Company to learn more!