NEW TIMES How long have you been bartending?
MALLON I have been bartending for nine years, going on 10 in June.
Â
NEW TIMES What is your favorite thing about bartending in San Luis Obispo?
MALLON SLO is a hub; people love to stop here. I like to meet all the people traveling through town. I meet a lot of foreigners. I also enjoy the SLOcals, the actual locals.
Â
NEW TIMES What makes a good bartender?
MALLON Someone who is a multi-tasker and also friendly and attentive. They remember your name and your drink and offer you another one before you are empty.
Â
NEW TIMES What sets Black Sheep apart from some of the other bars downtown?
MALLON We have some of the best customer service. We have a lot of loyal employees, and it allows for people to feel comfortable here. We try to be welcoming to everyone.
Â
NEW TIMES What is one of the weirdest things you have seen at the bar?
MALLON I once saw a guy trying to take a piss with his foot in the toilet. He never even made it in the toilet. I see a lot of people wet their pants. We also used to do a shot called the Flaming Lamborghini for birthdays; we once caught a guy’s hair on fire.
Â
NEW TIMES What is your drink of choice?
MALLON My drink of choice is 7 and 7.
Â
NEW TIMES What is your favorite drink to serve customers?
MALLON Whatever they want.
This article appears in Sep 1-8, 2011.