The Sweet Sounds of Service
The songs that get Portland chefs and bartenders out of their heads and into the groove of service.
At Naomi Pomeroy and Kyle Webster’s cocktail lounge Expatriate, most of the records are from Webster’s personal collection. Bartender Charles Simpson (behind the turntable here) has mixed 20 of his own records into the collection, and for him, the music is a big part of why he’s happy at work. Simpson is not alone. Even at restaurants that don’t feature a turntable, tunes are important. Here are the songs (and thought loops) that get Portland chefs and bartenders out of their heads and into the groove of service.
“Get Right Witcha” by Migos
Bartender Tony Contreras of Tusk
“Don’t Turn Around” by Ace of Base
Chef Ryan Roadhouse of Nodoguro
Белые розы (Belye Rozi) by Laskovyi Mai
Chef Bonnie Morales of Kachka
“Sweet Thing” by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
Chef Carlo Lamagna of Magna
“Call your Girlfriend" by Robyn
Chef Elise Walker of La Moule
R. Kelly, Skee-Lo, and Biggie
Chef Johanna Ware of Wares
“Old Black Kettle” by Dolly Parton
Chef Maya Lovelace of Yonder
"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper
Chef Jacob Hearth of Bar Casa Vale
“Africa” by Toto
Chef George Kaden of Grand Army Tavern
“Stop Ou Encore” by Plastic Bertrand
Chef Doug Weiler of Willow
“Solo” by Frank Ocean
Chef Sam Smith of Tusk
