On my search for the county’s next top bartender to honor, I made a quick stop at favorite Wildwood hangout Dogtooth Bar & Grill. With its casual ambiance, killer appetizer and snack specialties, and extensive drink menu, Dogtooth seemed like a safe bet. After meeting bartender Darryl, I knew I had come to the right place. A man of few words, Darryl blends well with Dogtooth’s “kick back and relax” atmosphere. He’s been bartending at Dogtooth for five years now, but his career actually got started at a South Florida TGI Friday’s fifteen years ago. Although he attended college in South Florida, Darryl ultimately decided to move back to the Wildwoods island. Born and raised in Wildwood Crest, Darryl takes full advantage of his hometown’s perks, hitting the beach every chance he gets. He likes to swim, surf, and (like most of us) relax on the sand.
What makes Dogtooth such an ideal workplace? “Everybody that I work with. And our regulars are really good people,” Darryl assures me. Can’t make a drink decision? Trust Darryl’s professional advice and go with the Dogtooth signature Pink Lemonade, made with Absolut Citron vodka, sour mix, and grenadine. But Darryl personally prefers to keep it simple. His palate favors straight Jameson or a whiskey. Stop by Dogtooth Bar & Grill, a favorite of locals and visitors alike, and say hello to laidback Darryl. Dogtooth offers $6.95 lunch specials Monday through Friday with $1 draughts until 4 p.m. followed by Happy Hour drink specials until 7 p.m. on Friday and 6 p.m. all other days. For “good food, good drink, and good friends”, there’s no better place.
By Megan Kummer