By Grace Galbreath
Our next featured bartender hails from Vineland, NJ, say hello to Genevieve Novicskie at the Salty Mermaid! Genevieve has been at the Salty Mermaid for the last three years, and today she manages both bars in the establishment.
Having worked in the service industry for over 30 years, Genevieve has plenty of bartending experience! She said, “I have been bartending since I was about 18 or 19 years old, so over 30 years. I have bartended at gastro pubs, wine bars, breweries, all over the place. I also had a private business where I freelance bartended for many years.”
For Genevieve, working in the restaurant business is a family pastime. She said, “I have worked with all my kids throughout the years. They have all dabbled in the business. Whether it was when they were in college or even in high school, they all learned how to work in the restaurant business. It was good, we worked very well together.” She added, “My son was bartending here. My son has since left and went back to Philly. He bartends at The Plow. But I stayed. After the first year I was offered to manage the two bars, and it has worked out. We have a great group of people here.”
Genevieve’s favorite thing about working at the Salty Mermaid is the wonderful crew that she works with daily. She said, “My favorite part about the mermaid is the whole family of the crew. Everybody, they are great people. From the owners to the bussers, everybody works really hard. It’s like family, it really is. Everyone’s first priority is to put out really good products in a nice, fun atmosphere. It is comfortable to bring your whole entire family, including your kids. It’s fun, it has a good atmosphere, you are on the beach!”
When not working, Genevieve loves to spend time gardening and running. She also enjoys cooking and trying new foods. Her favorite dish on the Salty Mermaid’s menu is the crab cakes!
This summer, the Salty Mermaid will be celebrating its sixth year! The establishment, located at 2507 Delaware Avenue in North Wildwood, continues to draw in crowds. Having been open for quite some time, the business has developed a popular signature drink, the Misunderstood Mermaid. The drink combines Misunderstood Ginger Spiced Whiskey, pear juice, ginger ale, and muddled amarena cherries to create a fresh, inviting cocktail!
Stop by the Salty Mermaid to say hello to Genevieve. You can snag a seat in one of their three eatery options, on the lawn, deck, or inside! I promise, the experience will be sweet, not at all salty!