Located directly on the bay with spectacular views and stylish surroundings, the Water Star Grille at the Reeds at Shelter Haven has quickly become one of the shore’s newest hot spots to gather with friends. Another aspect that makes the Water Star Grille a favorite place to kick back is its friendly faces behind the bar, which is why we chose the Grille’s very own Chris Branigan as our bartender of the week.
Although Chris’s hometown is Voorhees, N.J., he spends his summers in Stone Harbor serving up cool cocktails. After spending many of his childhood summers at the Jersey Shore, Chris’s parents finally decided to purchase a home in the area about five years ago. The following summer, Chris attended a job fair at the Reeds. He had no bartending experience, but that quickly changed when he landed a position at the service bar inside SAX at the Reeds. He worked his way up and bartended at different locations around the Reeds property, and finally ended up at the Water Star Grille where he’s been for three years. His favorite part about the job, besides the view, is his coworkers who have become more like family.
During the offseason, Chris attends graduate school at Eastern University, where he is working toward a master’s degree in teaching, as well as coaches baseball at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School.
When Chris isn’t mixing up drinks at the bar, he spends his summer days hanging out with friends, family and his girlfriend.
Come visit Chris and experience the relaxing yet lively vibe the Water Star Grille has to offer. Chris suggests trying his favorite drink, the signature SAXtini, made with pineapple infused Tito’s vodka.