THE ‘BUCKET LIST BARTENDER’

When we first approached Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House bartender Sidney Owen about a Keys Woman profile, she was hesitant because she didn’t “fit the mold.” Little did she know that’s exactly why we wanted her on these pages: She embodies so much of the unique spirit that draws people from all over to our islands.

Since 2013, Owen has been a mainstay as the restaurant’s bar manager, recently transitioning to part-time work. She’s known and loved by so many all over the country – to the point that travelers visiting the Keys ask for her by name because simply meeting her is on their bucket list.

“I got here with $10 to my name, walked into the Cracked Conch Cafe and lied about being able to wait tables, and here I am today.” she told us.

We could fill 10 pages with the stories she told us about the years since, including roller skating from Marathon to Key West in 2001 to raise scholarship funds for Marathon students as she collected dollars per mile – and dollars per drink – and solo sailing her 26-foot antique wooden sailboat to the Bahamas. Though we can’t officially confirm this, everyone’s favorite tree Fred has hinted that Owen is even one of the elves who help to decorate him each Christmas.

Who has your longest friendship been with? I would say my success on this planet is based on the friends that I have. I’ve had them for so long it’s hard to pick out one. I have a friend, Pamela Krohn, who’s a part of our tribe of at least 35 people that go to different festivals and camp, but she’s the person I text every day.

What piece of advice do you wish you could give your younger self? Don’t sell that first house you bought, because it’s worth about $800,000 more than what you sold it for.

What is your fondest memory? As a kid, I played the accordion. When I would stay with my grandparents in northern Ontario, they would march behind me as I played English sea shanties, and we’d go visit their friends and stand on their porch and play music.

What shows are you currently watching? I watch anything that has to do with “Star Wars” and “Star Trek.” I’m a big fan of Pedro Pascal’s, so I’m watching “The Last of

Us,” and I hate zombie movies. He wouldn’t even have to take off his helmet, if you know what I mean.

What do you think is the secret to a lasting relationship? First off, you have to be lucky enough to find that person, and wake up every morning and look and say, “Am I ever fortunate to have found this wonderful person.” I unfortunately have not, I’ve found 100 others that I had to ditch. But I haven’t given up hope, and I’m not jaded. You just can’t be with the right person if you’re with the wrong one.

What fashion trend or decade was your absolute favorite? The ’60s were fabulous. They were about social change and mind-bending things, and I bent my mind considerably.

What was in the last package you received at your house? Supplies for the bar.

What would be your theme song? “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell. It’s just fun to sing that one.

1. Travelers come from far and wide to check an item off their bucket list by meeting iconic Steak & Lobster House bartender Sidney Owen.

2. An elf with a striking resemblance to Owen helps Fred the Tree with his holiday decorations.

3. Sidney is an unstoppable force of holiday spirit in the Key Colony Beach boat parade, when she decorates her pedaling kayak with a different theme each year and always has something to toss to onlookers.

4. A poster from 2001 advertises Owen’s skate to Key West to raise funds for Business and Professional Women’s scholarships.

Robe or pajamas? I sleep naked.

If you had to be a color, which one would you choose? Olive green.

Soup or salad? Salad.

Who would narrate your life story? Meryl Streep.

Who was your first celebrity crush? John Lennon.

Do you talk to animals? All the time.

What’s your favorite lunch spot? (Other than Steak & Lobster, of course) The Island Fish Company.

What do you hope to be remembered for? Being a good friend.

What was your first job ever? From the time I was 8 years old, I worked for my father. He was a real estate broker, and he would take me to a clothing store and dress me up for two weeks’ worth of secretarial work every summer. I could type an offer to purchase, I could file all of the MLS listings and answered the phone.

Where did you grow up? Toronto.

What was your favorite childhood pastime? Every sport.

How many times have you been in love? At least 100.

What makes you smile? Seeing little kids play a musical instrument, or seeing someone doing something nice for somebody.

What’s your favorite smell? Lavender. My mother and grandmother were freaks for lavender, so it reminds me of them.

BY KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL

KEY LARGO’S JACQUELINE CAMPA SPREADS HAPPINESS THROUGH ART