Behind the bar: Amada Roberts at Warren's Inn

    Amada Roberts at Warren's InnAmada Roberts at Warren's Inn

    Spotlight: Amada Roberts of Warren's Inn

    Even if you're bellying up to Warren's Inn for the first time, Amada will make you feel right at home at this historic downtown watering hole. She'll also tell you how it is and don't think for one moment she'll put up with your drunken antics. This woman is a seasoned professional in the ways of slinging drinks. She's made more perfect martinis than the Rat Pack could even comprehend drinking, all of them with a dash of that mother-knows-best sass that keeps you out of too much trouble.

    What's the best part about bartending?
    For me, working at a place like Warren's, you got different people. You get the regulars but you also get a good amount of fresh blood in here. So you don't get caught up here as much with the regulars like some bars. Being able to share experiences, the different people from different walks. It exposes you to other things you'd otherwise miss. That, and I feel young here. The customers range from early twenties to late sixties. You will always meet some interesting people here. You could write a book about some of these people.

    What's your favorite drink?
    I like vodka and rum so either a rum press or a vodka press is probably my favorite drink depending how I'm feeling that day. They're easy, not too sweet, a medium taste. If it's hot out, margaritas taste so good.

    So how did you end up at Warren's?
    I came from San Francisco in 1981 and a friend there told me about the place before I moved. I was a regular at the original Warren's across Market Square. I've been tending bar here since 1983.

    How about a recipe for a drink?
    I had this basil simple syrup at the house to go over a cheesecake and I had some left in the bottle afterward and didn't want to waste it. So I decided to throw it in with some rum. It's really good together.

    The Amaruma
    Use a high ball glass filled with ice
    1 ½ ounces rum (Amada likes to use Flor de Cana)
    ½ ounce basil simple syrup
    finish with club soda
    lemon squeeze

    Read our other bartender profiles:
    Mike Sammons at 13 Celsius

    Comments

    Black Iguana Mon, 07/06/2009 - 1:03pm

    CONGRATULATIONS!

    If it's hot, would you try Black Iguana Frozen Ritas?
    We'd love to get your feedback on our pre-mixed Blue Agave wine Frozen Ritas (Lime & Strawberry).

    Rosa Water Tue, 07/07/2009 - 10:45am

    AMADA IS SO GREAT! A true Houston treasure along with Warren's and the rest of the gang. I'm sure Jose is smiling down on you all for carrying on his legacy...

    Jerry Ochoa Tue, 07/07/2009 - 12:11pm

    I love Warren's and everyone who works there! It's been my default drinking spot for 5 or 6 years now, and I swear that the drinks have only grown stronger with time. Best part? They stay open during hurricanes! There's nothing quite like downing a few at Warren's, then opening the front door and walking out into the arms of Rita, Ike, or whoever comes along next.

    Meredith Borders Mon, 07/13/2009 - 4:58pm

    Awesome, I love Amada and Katy. They keep me coming back every time. Flawless dirty martinis.

    beardy Tue, 07/28/2009 - 1:45pm

    As you can probably tell from other posts of mine, I also love Warren's. Amada and Katy are the best and do an excellent job of pouring drinks. Plus they're great at being nice to the regulars while keeping the overly drunk jackholes in line.

    Favorite bar in Houston. Period.

    erin Tue, 07/28/2009 - 10:25pm

    I second (third, fourth, fifth) all the commendations. I love Warren's, I love Amada and Katy, and I love the beautiful booze they mix so perfectly.

    ShyStarOT Thu, 11/26/2009 - 10:58am

    My first time last night. Definitely knew the regulars, but I instantly found myself quite cozy. Thanks for being kind to the newbies...It was truly a delight!

    Post new comment

    The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.
    adwiz bug