This week’s Bokenology takes us to the Hotel Victor Bar and Grill, 77 Hudson Street. Their slogan on their coasters is “We were here before you were born!” The historic sign on the outside of the building brings a little of Hoboken’s storied past into the bustling bar and restaurant scene. Open on April 14, this bar is new to the area, but has old world charm. A few things you won’t want to miss are the tiny grilled cheese appetizers and tuna tacos. It’s a nice departure from typical bar appetizers. They also have a good happy hour, every Monday to Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., which includes $3 domestic drafts. $4 well drinks, and $5 Jameson shots. The service is friendly and the look of the place is sophisticated. One of the bartenders looking to elevate your day is the charming Tracie.

DS: How long have you two worked in the bar business?

Tracie: Long enough! About 10 years.

DS: What is the best part of your job?

Tracie: Two things. The people I work with are really awesome. I’m also meeting a lot of people from Hoboken who are really cool.

DS: What is a life lesson you’ve learned working behind the bar?

Tracie: Not everything is black and white. You can’t judge a book by its cover. You meet people who look a certain way but they act completely different than you thought. My dad is a cop, so he sees things as right or wrong. But in this business it’s different.

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

Tracie: I witnessed a proposal at Applebee’s. It wasn’t so life affirming though. If I was her, I’d have said no!

DS: What is the single best tip you ever received?

Tracie: I got $100 from a regular at my last job. He was deaf and he would write me notes all night. And one night he thanked me, handed me $100 and said Merry Christmas!

DS: What is the best drink you make?

Tracie: I think my best drink is my martini- called Orgaz-Matini. It’s a mix of Malibu, Bailey’s, Amaretto, and a secret ingredient.

DS: What do you drink on a night off?

Tracie: I’m a big wino now. Or if I’m out I like to drink Bombs, especially if it has Red Bull in it.

DS: What is the strangest drink you’ve ever been asked to make?

Tracie:  Someone asked for a Sambuca Bloody Mary. A little old man ordered it.

DS: Did he drink it?

Tracie: Yes, he did! Isn’t that gross?!

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

Tracie: I would say, go out and have fun, but don’t take things so seriously. You are still really young. You can dance on the table, but keep your underwear on!

Photos by Krista Kelly.