When we set out to find our first featured local mixologist of the season, we stepped into 5 West Pub‘s casual, cool atmosphere featuring awesome cocktails and stellar food. With this atmosphere comes casual, cool staff members, which led us to this week’s bartender of the week, Matt Nowakowski.
A North Cape May native, Matt is now celebrating his fifth summer at 5 West Pub. Many aspects led Matt to his mixologist gig at 5 West. It’s close to home and open year round, so he knew it would be perfect if he got the job. He applied and was hired, and having restaurant experience since the age of 14 eventually led him to a bartending opportunity. He accepted it with open arms, knowing that it was just the right position for his outgoing personality.
Matt explains that his favorite part about the job is working with the friendly staff that has become more like family. Additionally, he has grown to love the fabulous food and cocktails, especially the unique and refreshing El Chapo.
When Matt isn’t serving up cocktails behind the bar, he enjoys boating, fishing, hanging at the beach, watching and playing sports, and spending time with his friends on the other side of the bar.
Visit Matt and the rest of the 5 West crew during 5 West Pub’s Happy Hour Monday through Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m., and all day Sunday. Or, stop by during a Phillies game and get $5.50 American pizzas and plenty of domestic draft specials. Enjoy live music all summer long Thursday through Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m., and be sure to check out the outdoor patio open 4 to 10 p.m.!