Photos and Story by Amanda Sciandra
This week’s bartender of the week is Monica Lawler at The Inn of Cape May. With ten years of bartending under her belt, Monica can whip together a drink without a second thought.
Prior to working at the Inn of Cape May, Monica was a bartender at the Barefoot Bar & Grill. “I’ve been working in restaurants my whole life,” Monica said. “I could do this with my eyes closed,” Monica said. “It can get hectic for sure, but it’s all repetition.”
Monica is a true local, born and raised in Cape May. She graduated from Lower Cape May Regional High School and has spent most of her life on our peninsula.
When she’s not working, Monica loves spending time with her family and going to the beach. Monica has an eight-year-0ld chocolate lab named Remy, whom she “spoils rotten.”
Originally called the Colonial, The Inn of Cape May has remained a popular tourist destination since it opened in 1984.
When asked what she likes most about working at the Inn of Cape May, Monica’s answer was quick. “Our customers. Also, our management team is awesome.” She also spoke highly of her fellow employees, many of whom live internationally but return every summer for work, which is something she always looks forward to.
As her signature drink, Monica prepared an absolute classic of a cocktail: a cosmopolitan. Its light pink color makes it perfect for the summer – she said that the drink resembles a Cape May Sunset. Cosmopolitans are one of Monica’s favorite drinks as they are “strong and delicious.”
Next time you’re in Cape May, make sure to stop by the bar at The Inn of Cape May, say hi to Monica, and order one of her signature cosmos.