This week’s Bokenology takes us the Madison, 1316 Washington St. This upscale bar and restaurant has been keeping Hobokenites happy for years with its fantastic food, martini list and friendly service. The bar is upscale without being fussy, the service good without being overbearing, and well, the cocktails are a step above. They offer a variety of specials during the week, including a three-course early dinner, half price martinis on Tuesdays, and happy hour all night long on Thursdays. But probably one of the biggest reasons you’ll return is the staff – who give all who enter a warm welcome. One such staff member is the charming Carly.

DS: How long have you worked at the Madison?

Carly: About six months.

DS: How long have you been bartending?

Carly: About five years. I worked in Buffalo before moving here.

DS: What do you like best about bartending?

Carly: I love meeting all different kinds of people. I worked in an office right after college and I hated it.

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

Carly: A month ago, a girl was in here by herself. There was a group of guys who came in after her. They thought they were being too loud so they paid her check!

DS: What life lesson have you learned while working here?

Carly: It has taught me to always smile. If someone comes in and they aren’t having a good day – always smile! It goes a long way to making someone happy.

DS: What is the best drink you make?

Carly: I would say the Organic Martini – it’s everyone’s favorite!

DS: What do you drink on a night off?

Carly: Blueberry Vodka and water.

DS: Why water?

Carly: It healthy. It’s the healthiest thing you can mix with it.

DS: Do you work out?

Carly: Yes! I do P90X. It’s very hard, but it’s different every day.

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

Carly: It’s hard to say. I’ve heard some really bad pickup lines. One night a guy gave me a cocktail napkin with his name and number. It said, ‘I’ve watched you shake drinks all night. I want to shake it with you.’ I showed to everyone I work with – we all laughed.

DS: What is the oddest thing you’ve ever been asked to make?

Carly: Well here, everyone drinks seltzer. I don’t think I ever served it before I came here. In Buffalo, everyone orders vodka drinks with ice tea or cranberry.

DS: What was your best night here so far?

Carly: Our Christmas party! We all went to the Turtle Club afterwards.

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

Carly: Don’t drink too many martinis! Don’t get drunk. Always go out with your friends and don’t go home with weirdoes. There are creepy old men waiting to take you home!

Photos by Krista Kelly.