Bartender Amy Carducci Is Named One of States Best
By Bernie Nguyen

Amy Carducci, a bartender at Horn's Gaslight Bar, was voted one of Michigan's top three bartenders for 2006 in the Detroit News Best of Michigan Feature.

Amy Carducci, who has been a bartender at Horn's Gaslight Bar for three seasons, was voted by Detroit News' readers as one of the top three bartenders in Michigan, and says she owes her success to the patrons who make her job a fun one.

"I think bartending is more than making a great drink," she said. "It's also about good conversation. I always try to ask what their mood is."

Keeping her customers happy makes her job much easier.

"When they're friendly," she said, "it makes it easier to be the best, to be your best."

One of her signature drinks is a Hypnohito, which she introduced to Horn's Bar, made of Bacardi rum, Hypnotiq, lime, fresh mint, and simple syrup.

"It's delicious," she said, and making other drinks tailored to customers' tastes has helped her perfect the craft.

"When you make a drink and it's right, you can see it on their face," said Ms. Carducci. "And that makes me feel good."

Of the Detroit News' poll, she said, "I was really blown back. It's really nice to be recognized."

She enjoys living and working on Mackinac during the summer because the visitors are so friendly.

"I love the vacationers," she said. "They're always happy and easy-going."

She is also happy that Horn's owners Steven and Patti Ann Moskwa promoted her from bussing tables to tending the bar.

"Patti Ann and Steven said they'd give me a try," she said, and "I really appreciate the opportunities (they) have given me."