This legendary bar found inside Fort Lauderdale’s B Ocean Resort was built to resemble an old Spanish galleon at the bottom of the sea, replete with Spanish lanterns, hearty rope knots and portholes that peer into a pool from where patrons get to see one-of-a-kind mermaid and aquamen performances, something that even grabbed Hollywood’s attention when The Wreck Bar was featured in the 1960 movie, ‘Where the Boys Are,’ and more recently, Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal’s ‘Analyze This’ film in 1999. Mark Gibson (known as “Magic Mark”) has spent the past nine years of his storied 30-year career as a hospitality professional and the property’s most beloved bartender. We caught up with him to get in the swim of things at this famed establishment.
Q&A
Mark Gibson (known as “Magic Mark”)
This is truly a unique spot – tell us what you love most about it.
From its rich history, famous patrons and movie acclaim, to burlesque mermaids and sunken ship motif, the Wreck draws the most interesting and diverse crowds from around the world – it’s this I love most.
Why bartending?
What other profession can you meet incredible people, have good conversations and make them smile? Okay, it might be the great drink that makes them happy.
Favorite quote?
“You talking to me?” – Robert De Niro, “Taxi Driver”
You can design your own cocktail napkin – what would it be or what would it say?
“Your empty glass looks sad.”
Drink everyone needs to know, and why?
Espresso Martini – because everyone needs that balance of caffeine and alcohol.
Bar trend you’d wish would fizzle out?
Using wood to smoke whiskey and bourbon — please, just drink Scotch.
Best piece of advice you ever got?
When the sh*t hits the fan and the rush is on, keep your head down and keep shoveling.
Rule you wish people would break?
Well, this is South Florida – there are no rules left to break!
If you weren’t a bartender, you’d be a …
Captain of a catamaran … in my next life.
Who, living or not, would you want to make a drink for? Why?
Dean Martin (with the Rat Pack) — as a connoisseur of booze, I think he’d appreciate my talents and I’d appreciate his stories.
Espresso Martini
Serves 1
Ingredients:
1½ ounces vanilla vodka
½ ounce Tito’s vodka
½ ounce fresh brewed espresso
½ ounce of Kahlua coffee liqueur
0.2 ounces Baileys
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients and shake.
Pour into a chilled martini glass.