Doar Bros. may be the new kid on the block, but their bar manager, Megan Deschaine is a seasoned veteran behind the bar. Megan was kind enough to answer some questions for us about her new spot, which we think is the perfect place to take your Valentine.
Where are you from originally?
I’m a bona fide local. Grew up in the Summerville and North Charleston area. But I had the good wisdom to move away at 20, spending close to the next decade in Boulder, CO and Baltimore, MD.
How long have you been bartending and how long at Doar Bros.?
I started bartending 12 years ago in a little Italian joint in Boulder. They only served wine and beer, but I was hooked. It wasn’t until I was hired to work at a small cocktail bar in Baltimore that I first caught the “mixology” craze. It was there that I began to realize that this job I used to pay for college was something I wanted to make a career. I’ve been with Doar Brothers since we opened a few months ago.
What’s the craziest story a patron has ever told you?
So what people sometimes forget is that the bar is only 2 feet deep, and you don’t need to have supersonic hearing to eavesdrop on any conversation. Not to imply this would ever be my intent, but I have been witness to many a secret that wasn’t meant for me. I have heard discussions of surprise STDs, affairs, “sharting” in public. I guess a comfortable bar setting and a few drinks is all one really needs to spill all the juicy beans.
What’s the strangest drink request you’ve ever gotten?
Johnny Walker Blue and Cranberry…not necessarily a repulsive order, but hurtful nonetheless.
What’s your favorite drink on the menu?
We have a modern and a classic list and I have a favorite on each. For the modern, it is the Portside Daiquiri, a mix of dried figs, Plantation 3 Star Rum, Tawny Port, Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur, lime juice and a touch of brown sugar. It’s definitely in the sour family, but still has all these warming kisses of winter. On the classic list, it is easily the Gibson Martini, a mix of Beefeater London Dry Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth, and a few dashes of the pickling brine from the pickled onion garnish. It is bright and zippy, and still so smooth for being so spirited.
What’s your favorite drink to make?
This is a question that guests like to ask, my cheeky reply is “whatever is your favorite drink to drink”… but without meaning to be too cheesy, at our bar we practice the philosophy that we serve people, not drinks. It really is my greatest delight to make someone a drink that delights them.
Take your Valentine to Doar Bros. and let Megan and her amazing team whip you up some phenomenal craft cocktails and delicious fare. Love Local!