In downtown Owen Sound, there exists a haven for those seeking community, creativity, and a damn good drink. The Rumpus Room, a brainchild of Maxine Kitto and Shaun Dooley embodies their spirit of camaraderie and artistic exploration. And at the helm of its vibrant bar scene are two individuals whose passion and dedication infuse every concoction and conversation: Tom and Justin.
Tom, with a journey that began humbly in the dish pit of Casero Kitchen Table, embodies the quintessential rise through the ranks. From scrubbing plates to orchestrating the symphony of flavours behind the bar, his two-year tenure in bartending and the food industry reflects not just a job, but a journey of self-discovery. It’s a journey marked by friendships forged in the crucible of Casero, a place he fondly remembers as the birthplace of his culinary and mixological adventures.
I ask Tom what he loves about the industry, curious about the driving force behind his infectious enthusiasm. His answer reverberates with the warmth of genuine connection, “talking to guests and making connections with people from all different walks of life mostly,” he replies. For Tom, bartending isn’t just about pouring drinks; it’s about crafting experiences, weaving stories, and sharing moments of joy with patrons who become friends.
But every journey has its bumps, its quirks, its pet peeves. Tom recounts the faux pas of impatient patrons snapping fingers or labeling drinks with outdated gender stereotypes. Yet, amidst these minor annoyances, his love for the craft remains unshaken, fueled by the endless possibilities of mixology and the joy of serving a perfectly crafted cocktail.
As for his favorite libation to create, Tom describes the Paper Plane, a whimsical blend of Bourbon, Aperol, lemon juice, and Amaro, crowned with a playful paper airplane garnish, holding a special place in his heart. It’s not just a drink; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of cocktail history served with a side of whimsy.
And then there’s Justin, a seasoned veteran of the hospitality trenches, whose decade-long journey from the tourist hub of Canmore to the bustling bar of The Rumpus Room emanates his love for the craft. He shares tales of shaking margaritas in mountain towns and the chaotic beauty of bartending during a pandemic.
For Justin, bartending isn’t just a job; it’s a calling—a chance to create moments of magic amidst the chaos of everyday life. His pet peeves, like the relentless demand for mojitos during peak hours, are mere blips in a sea of laughter and camaraderie. With a smile and a shaker, he navigates the frenetic dance of a busy bar with grace and gusto.
And when it comes to his favorite concoction, Justin’s choice is as bold and comforting as the man himself: the Penicillin. A potent blend of blended scotch, fresh ginger, lemon juice, honey syrup, and a hint of peaty scotch, it’s more than just a drink—it’s a cure for the soul, a balm for the weary.
But behind every great bartender lies a tale, a moment of folly that becomes a source of laughter and camaraderie. Justin’s misadventure in the keg room, drenched in beer and humility, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bond that forms between comrades in arms.
Together, Tom and Justin form the beating heart of The Rumpus Room’s vibrant bar scene. Their passion for mixology, their dedication to service, and their unwavering spirits embody the feeling of community that defines this beloved establishment. So, raise a glass to these two intrepid bartenders and the unforgettable experiences they craft with every pour. Cheers to Tom and Justin, the dynamic duo behind the bar at The Rumpus Room.
Rumpus Room is located at 235 9th St E in Owen Sound. Find their hours at therumpusroomos.com
Words by Krista Kulbach
Photos provided by Rumpus Room
