This week’s Bokenology takes us to Oddfellows Rest, 80 River St. This New Orleans themed bar is a go to place year-round for their southern fare including their delicious po’ boys and catfish entrees, but things really heat up for Mardi Gras. Beads, anyone? Their happy hour includes their signature drink- a sweet Hurricane cocktail – which will transport you to memories of Bourbon Street faster than you can say “more please!” On Fat Tuesday, the party goes on all day long and is topped off with a performance by the Voodudes at night. One of the bar mavens who brings flare to drink slinging is Matti, who is well-known throughout town.

DS: How long have you been bartending?

Matti: Seven years.

DS: How long have you worked at Oddfellows?

Matti: About seven months.

DS: What is the best part of your job?

Matti: Socializing and meeting new people. Hanging out and having fun rather than sitting at a desk all day.

DS: What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever witnessed?

Matti: There is a guy who comes in here who wears a Coors Light cowboy hat that he made out of a Coors Light case. He is always wearing a suit with the cowboy hat and he says that the cowboy hat is going to be a new fashion line. He says that he owns a glow stick company. Every time he comes in he says he has to go pick up glow sticks and he says that he is going to a wedding.

DS: Does he drink Coors Light?

Matti: No! He drinks a shot of Jager and a Bud Light.

DS: What is the most life affirming thing you’ve learned?

Matti: It is the regulars you have. You can always count on the regulars. If you don’t have regulars, work really isn’t that fun.

DS: How do you prepare for your night?

Matti: Waiting to go to work is the worst! Sometimes I watch Law and Order reruns and then listen to music on my walk to work.

DS: What is the single biggest tip you’ve ever received?

Matti: I got a $160 tip on a $4.50 beer. The guy said I was cute.

DS: What is the best drink you make?

Matti: I do make a good dirty martini.

DS: What advice would you give a 21-year old going out?

Matti: Stay away from the sugar drinks! Don’t order the sugar drinks- it will make you throw up! You can always tell someone is young when they order a shot of Soco lime.