A little blurb about you:
My name is Madison, but most people call me Maddie. I did most of my growing up in Bethlehem NH. I graduated high school at Profile High School and then extended my education at Rhode Island College playing softball. I have worked at Reklis Brewing Co since we have opened the doors. April 1st will be our 7 year anniversary. I started as a dishwasher when I was still in high school. I would come to work after any sports practice and work until close. Then once I turned 18 I started serving, then bartending, and then I became the Pint House Manager and started to help manage the floor sometimes. Now here I am almost 7 years later as the Bar Manager. I have spent most of my growing up inside this business and I will always be thankful for it. Working in a restaurant gives you many life lessons and can alter your life for the better. I would not be the person I am today without my team at Reklis. I adore Ian and Marlaina, and everyone else in our Reklis world.
What do you think is the most underused bar tool?
I would say the most underused bar tool would be the jigger. This helps keep everything consistent between bartenders. Consistency is key to people enjoying cocktails, and having full faith in coming back and getting the same delicious product from someone else. Happiness and confidence in cocktails is what makes people want to come back.
Favorite cocktail?
Personally, I am someone who loves all things beer, but if I were to have a cocktail, it would always have tequila in it. I would say my favorite cocktail would be an espresso martini- but to spice it up I prefer my base liquor to be silver tequila. I know it sounds weird at first but I promise you, it is magnificent.
Favorite thing to do when not behind the bar?
My favorite thing to do when I am not behind the bar is to be anywhere in the sun, golfing, swimming, cornhole, or hanging with friends or family. The summer time is my favorite time of the year. In the winter I love to do anything with my friends to hangout and laugh.
How many years have you been bartending?
I have been bartending for almost 5 years now. I started in 2020 at the peak of Covid. It feels weird. It has already been 5 years. They say time flies when you’re having fun and that is the best example of my time bartending so far. Meeting so many great people, making so many connections, and having fun along the way while extending my knowledge in my career.
Favorite place in NH to visit?
There are so many spots that hold so many great memories for me in New Hampshire. I could say Bethlehem because it has Reklis but that seems like a very easy answer. I think if I had to choose, I would say Derry NH. It is the home to a good portion of my family, we gather there for all holidays, any birthday celebrations, or just simple get-togethers. It is a place that feels like a home away from home.
Favorite Tamworth Distilling Spirit:
I would say my favorite Tamworth spirit would be the Damson Plum Gin. I love the flavor it brings to any cocktail you create with it.
Signature Tamworth Cocktail recipe:
Golden Bee
2 oz Tamworth Garden Damson Plum Gin
.5 oz Dom De Canton Ginger Liqueur
¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
.5 oz Honey Simple Syrup
Shaken and strained into a martini glass with a dehydrated lemon garnish.
Nestled in the charming town of Bethlehem, NH, Rek-Lis Brewing Company is renowned for its impressive lineup of homemade brews. But this local gem offers more than just exceptional beer – it also boasts an on-site kitchen where the entire menu, spanning from classic pub fare with a twist to tempting tacos and vegan delights, is crafted from scratch. When visiting, be sure to check out the Pint House, which comes alive with live music, trivia nights, and even Friday karaoke.
Visit Rek’· lis Brewing Company to learn more!