QA: JOSEPH CASSIS, 2017 EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Name: Joseph Cassis Title: Head Bartender, PassionFish Bethesda Hometown: Charleston, W.Va. Residence: Arlington, Va. Favorite color: Gray Favorite quote: “It’s just crabcakes. You sell them, we cook them, they eat them. Crabcakes.” – Glenn Holly, Owner of Monteray Bay Fish Grotto

Eatery Pulse News: First of all, how did it feel to be recognized on the biggest stage in the D.C.-area restaurant industry? Joseph Cassis: Overwhelming. They give the nominees the option of sitting up front with two people. I chose to sit in the back with my team who had come to support me. I was truly stunned to win, but to be in front of so many people who I respect and admire made it much more meaningful. EPN: What is the biggest thing you love about working in restaurants and the favorite part about your job? JC: It’s difficult to pick one, but the energy of a high volume restaurant is amazing. Everyone is doing something different, but we’re all working towards the same goal of creating the best guest experience possible—it’s incredibly rewarding. My bar team and regulars have become my family. Even when there are bad days I am excited to come in, be better, learn more, and push the envelope. Our program is only as good as the last shift. Every day is an opportunity to improve. EPN: Please name some of the individuals who have been mentors. JC: More people than I can name have helped my growth over the years, but I wouldn’t be the bartender I am today without the guidance of Jim McGavin. He is one of the best bartenders and people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with in DC. My beverage director, Scott Clime, taught me how to manage a bar. He instilled an appreciation for consistency, the importance of standing behind my decisions and embracing (the fact) that failure sometimes happens.

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