Where are you from?
I'm from the West Village.

At which bars have you worked in the past?
Cipriani's is the only bar I've worked at. I wanted to open up my own bar, but I started working at Cipriani's as a temporary job and have been there for about 13 years now.

What makes the drinks at Cipriani's different from those at other bars?
We use only fresh-squeezed juices (orange, lime, and lemon), that's the big difference. A margarita is definitely better with the fresh lime.

What are your signature drinks?
The Bellini is our signature drink--it actually originated here. A lot of ladies like it. We use a combination of chilled prosecco with a puree of fresh white peaches from France. You can only get these peaches from a specialty store. We're also known for our martinis--the difference is that they come right out of the freezer.

What is your least favorite beverage?
I hate Long Island iced tea -- it has every liquor in it; it's an instant hangover!

Are there any special tools and gadgets you like to use to make drinks?
Our best gadget is our freezer--we always keep our vodka in it so martinis come out chilled. Our peaches are also a special "gadget" is our special gadget; they make the best Bellinis. And our blender--just a regular blender.

What is your favorite cocktail to make at home?
I like to make Madras, which is a combination of Stoli--O, fresh orange juice and cranberry. I also love apple martinis, and lemon drops -- sugar around the rim (vodka, sugar, lemon juice)

What is your best advice for someone trying to make cocktails at home?
Keep your vodka in the freezer, always work with fresh juices, and use less liquor because you can always add more. You don't want to ruin the drink by adding too much at the start.