An elegant atmosphere, an outstanding chef and staff members who take your order with pressed collared shirts and smiles on their faces adorn this night club turned fabulous small plate dining restaurant.

Quite honestly, Milwaukee is known for its bar scene. Milwaukeeans never have an excuse not to drink. Whether it is a holiday, the day before a holiday, the day after a holiday, Thirsty Thursday and the classic allure of our summer festivals, there is always a reason to throw back a few.

Even if you are traveling to Milwaukee for the first time and you are looking for a bar to have a few drinks at, you know that you will start your night and most likely end your night on Water Street.

However, two years ago, Water Street added a new family member to its row of booze slamming bars. Swig, once 1225 the night club with an upstairs oxygen bar, opened its doors, hoping to find a different kind of clientele than what Water Street usually attracts.

An elegant atmosphere, an outstanding chef and staff members who take your order with pressed collared shirts and smiles on their faces adorn this night club turned fabulous small plate dining restaurant.

However, closing its doors on the bar scene does not mean Swig does not have a bar. Its wine list is nothing a foodie wouldnt melt over and its martinis are every fashionistas dream.

An attractive setting with low lighting and candles at every seat is what bartender Alex Aguirre loves most about coming to work every day.

Name: Alex Aguirre

Sign: Virgo

Place of employment: Swig, 1225 E. Water St.

Your favorite bar/restaurant to visit and why:

Moct. I like the design, music, people and open garage doors in the summer. Vituccis is another favorite of mine, too.

How long have you been working at Swig?

Since we opened (2 years).

How would you describe Swigs atmosphere?

Modern elegance

What was the worst customer you have ever served?

There are so many over the years. But the most recent one is this guy comes here with all of his blind dates. He gets drunk and we boot him out every time. He never tips, talks crap and has the nerve to keep coming back.

Have you ever gotten a life-changing tip?

No, still waiting.

What is your favorite drink to make?

My own: Ketel Citron and seltzer. NFL: No F---ing Lemon.

Have you ever gotten any weird drink requests?

This one guy ordered Sweet Vermouth Neat.

What restaurant has the best drink menu and why?

Blu at the top of the Phister Hotel. They have a great selection of wines and martinis. Besides, I love the view.

What annoys you about the service industry?

You make money every day on tips, you spend it the same way (as in going out to bars, restaurants) and you dont get a check.

What do you love about the service industry?

In my case, I make a lot of friends, go out a lot and sleep late.

What do you feel is most important when you make a drink: taste or presentation?

Presentation.

Was there ever a time when you just wanted to quit?

Yes. When customers bring their kids to the bar.

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