A conversation with Inwood Tavern’s Brendan Willis

Inwood Tavern (IT) is the bar everyone wants to end up at. In fact, Brendan Willis waited for years to get his turn. Then he got a call.

His friend Maigen, a fellow bartender at IT, told him that the whole tavern staff was going on a vacation put together by the owners. His opportunity had arrived.

He trained over the weekend and worked his first shift that Monday. Almost five years later, Willis is still at Inwood Tavern.

“It is without a doubt the most fun job I have ever had,” he says.

How would you describe the vibe of Inwood Tavern?

The vibe can only be described as laid-back and relaxed, and welcome to all walks of life over the age of 21. Inwood Tavern is always going to have good music playing if you want to dance, and a dimly lit covered patio where you can have a conversation and a smoke, if you like, while not missing the action. With such a wide age range of people who enjoy the Tavern, it makes it an incredible place for networking with people. My mother always said life is about who you know, not what you know, and she was always right.

In the time you’ve been there, how, if at all, has the crowd changed?

The crowd has changed alright, and it just keeps getting better. I can’t tell you how many amazing people walk through the doors of Inwood Tavern, but I can tell you it’s a pleasure to take care of them and learn about their journey. 

What is a typical shift like for you?

I arrive a bit early, normally with some candy. I like to try and say hello to everyone as I arrive and let them know the party has officially started. Then, I like to take a moment and set the bar up the way I like it, which is a luxury we have at the Tavern, and it’s usually pretty chill vibes for the first several hours of a shift throughout the week.  By about 10 p.m., it’s normally pretty rocking, and the time usually goes by so fast because it’s so fun and easy.

Do you have a signature drink you like to make, even if it’s not on the menu?

I have quite a few drinks I like to make, but I always like to ask people what they normally drink before assuming what they will like, and once I know if they are looking for something sweet or sour or spirit forward or refreshing, I can whip something up. Lately, a crowd pleaser for me has been making a ranch water and splashing it with fresh-squeezed pineapple juice, not that whack stuff out of a can. I’m talking fresh-squeezed, baby!

What drink order instantly tells you something about a customer?

If you order any version of a Long Island, I am going to ask to see your ID again. If you order any kind of a spritzer or something really fancy, it normally tells me you might be a first-timer, which is cool because then I show you that we are known for using red Solo cups for our cocktails, and it always sparks a fun conversation.

What is one story you’ll never forget since working at Inwood Tavern?

Working the day after Dallas’s own Scottie Scheffler came in after he won the Masters was pretty memorable. That’s right, I said the day after.

I wasn’t even there, but I opened that Monday. It was nuts how many radio stations and news stations called asking questions and how many people came in wanting to drink what he drank and take a picture where he was. 

Scottie, if you’re reading this, I’m always pulling for you, brother, and when you win the next Masters, I’ll have some Blanton’s waiting on you. Cheers.

If someone only had one visit, what would you tell them to order?

Well, without a doubt, it’s a rite of passage at the Tavern to have at least one JELL-O shot for your first visit, and I would strongly encourage ordering any beverage made in our iconic red Solo cup because we have a great pour, and it’s what we are known for. We also have several other options; many people are surprised to find out that we have good wine and lots of local beers as well. But if you’re coming to the Inwood Tavern to get the full experience, you have to get yourself at the very least a JELL-O shot and a nice strong drink of your choice.

What’s an underrated menu item people should know about?

Some underrated cocktails would be the root beer shot. That one is definitely a sleeper. For something sweet that’s not a white tea, try the strawberry lemonade shot; it’s dangerous.  We also have Malört for any weirdos out there who like the taste of gasoline and rubber bands. Most people don’t know this, but we have the best Lay’s potato chips in all of Dallas. There is literally no competition.

Is there a drink trend you’re loving or one you’re ready to see disappear?

I don’t have anything against Guinness, but I can’t say I’m a fan of splitting the “G.” Why are we chugging Guinness, guys? Gross. On the other hand, I am a big fan of how popular non-carbonated seltzers like Sun Cruiser iced tea have become, and I also like how many nonalcoholic beverages have become popular, so that way people who don’t or can’t drink can still come and enjoy a beverage that’s not a soda water and have fun with everyone. I think it’s great for the industry. 

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.