Located in San Francisco’s Duboce Triangle, Blackbird bar may seem mysterious on a first impression but seen in a better light its moody feel, red booths, and broad menu are the ingredients of the perfect timeless spot. In this episode of The Muddler Podcast, our host TJ Bonaventura, talks to Matt Grippo, bartender and co-owner of Blackbird to talk about the inspiration behind this moody bar, how they confronted COVID-19 restrictions, and the stories behind the weird and funny names on their cocktail menu. Join this conversation and learn how this bar focuses on speedy drinks without taking the attention off the customer experience in this vibey and curious bar.

Jump straight into:

(01:56) - The perfect local bar: The story behind the mysterious timeless spot in SF that offers everything you might want for a perfect libation.

(08:03) - How Blackbird confronted COVID-19: Going from the initial shock to getting back to business. 

(13:11) - Matt’s leadership and work ethic: How to handle responsibility, the silver linings of the pandemic, and getting back in the groove of seeing bars open. 

(20:45) - Blackbird’s cocktails and the importance of staff wellness: How the team came up with a new menu of delicious, collaborative, and creative drinks. 

(24:31) - Finding inspiration and iterating ideas: Trying Blackbird’s delicious kegged Kentucky Peach, and the blended No Bad Days.

(34:33) - Blackbird’s cocktail names and the stories behind it: The funny, awkward, and ridiculous vibe of the drink menu. 

(36:43) - Last Call!: Matt’s craziest story from working as a bartender and getting hit on by a customer. 

Episode resources

Golden Rule Spirits

Blackbird

Thank you for listening to The Muddler. If you liked this episode be sure to rate the show wherever you listen. Visit themuddlerpodcast.com and follow us on Instagram @themuddlepodcast. Tell us about your favorite bar and drinks!

The Muddler is a StudioPod Media original podcast produced by TJ Bonaventura. Our writer is Joey Mezzatesta. Editing and music provided by Nodalab.