Local Favorite Bartender Serves Up Drinks & Friendship at Bass Lake Pub
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Bartender. Barkeep. Mixologist. Sommelier. To some, therapist. These are all ways to describe that person who can prepare your favorite cocktail to perfection or pour you a tall cold one with just the right amount of foam. If you have the need to wet your whistle—or just desire some lively conversation—head over to the Bass Lake Pub, where you will be greeted with the warm smile and friendly demeanor of Amy Coldiron, operating behind the bar.
Born and raised in North Judson, Amy is no stranger to Starke County. With family members who have roots and business ties in the area, her choice to plant her own roots was an easy one. Her work ethic is evident in her daily approach—one shaped by advice received at a young age: “Be nice to people and they will be nice to you.” Sound wisdom from her parents that we could all take to heart today.
At the age of 21, she took her first bartending job at a local North Judson establishment, The Wooden Nickel. Her first round of formal training consisted of being thrown behind the bar and told, “Learn how to deal with the people and the rest will just come to you.” Baptism by fire, so to speak. When you talk to her, you can tell she learned very well.
Fast-forward 26 years to today. With that much experience behind the bar, Amy is a seasoned pro. In addition to crafting your drink of choice, she’s also mastered the most important part of bartending—the ability to deal with people.
“I have met a lot of people over the years,” Amy says. “Many are now friends that I treat as if they are family.”
Not everyone stops by just for a drink. Some come for a friendly voice and an attentive ear. Sometimes, that’s all people need to brighten their day.
Having settled in at the Bass Lake Pub for the last 10 years, Amy has come to know her clientele well. She has her regular crowd and can tell if something seems amiss. If it does, she’ll give them a call to make sure everything is all right—a true sign of someone who cares.
“Friends make this job easy,” Amy says.
New patrons receive the same welcoming treatment that Amy has perfected. Making everyone feel at home comes naturally to her. Many of her customers are seasonal, but that doesn’t stop her from getting to know them. Even if she doesn’t know someone’s name, she certainly knows what they drink.
Raised in Starke County and trained at local establishments, Amy—with her charismatic personality—has become a community favorite. Whether it’s win, place or show, she’s been voted Favorite Bartender in Starke County several years in a row, a testament to her impact on patrons and the community alike.
With the precision of a chemist, Amy knows exactly how to mix the perfect drink. Whether it’s a Chocolate Martini, Banana Banshee or Dancing Frog, she’ll shake and stir it to perfection to satisfy your eager palate. Visiting from across the pond? She can pour the perfect pint too.
Working hand in hand with the talented kitchen and waitstaff of the Pub, Amy can also take your food order and ensure your meal pairs perfectly with your drink.
Whether you crave a cold one after a long day, a flawlessly mixed cocktail with dinner, or simply a caring ear after a rough week, Amy Coldiron is the one to turn to.
Come see her in action at the Bass Lake Pub, where you’ll always be welcomed by that radiant smile and charismatic disposition.
