[meet] One of Wichita’s Friendliest Servers
To those familiar with Mort’s Martini Bar, general manager Emma Russell needs no introduction. To those of you who don’t recognize her smiling face, either you’re not 21 yet (because Emma will kick you out, so don’t even try it) or you’ve been spending too much time at America’s Pub. Of the many, many (many) times that I have sipped dirty martinis at Mort’s, the times when I get to chat with Emma (or Mel, her sister from another mister) are my favorites. But, I wanted to know more about her. Has she tried all the martinis? And how does she stay so dang cheerful? Read on to find out.
How long have you been at Mort’s?
13 years…or 12…or 13. I don’t know, since ‘97.
How did you come to work here?
I traveled after high school graduation and when I got back, my dad told me I had to get a job. So, I put on a dress and walked around Old Town and Mort’s hired me on the spot. I worked my way up. My job here put me through college. I became a manager right before I graduated college.
Describe a typical night at Mort’s.
There is no typical night. But every night, I see at least a few regulars since we have so many. It’s always nonstop and I move constantly. Service is everything. We’re here for the guests to help them have a good time. Doesn’t matter what day – they’ll get good service.
What is your philosophy of serving?
I’m always pretty even-keeled and mellow. I’m not going to let others [keep our] guests from having a good time. I try to keep things from escalating and becoming a big deal. A lot of times people are hugging me when I’m kicking them out.
Have you tried all the martinis?
I’ve tasted almost all of the martinis, but I won’t touch anything with banana or bourbon.
What’s your favorite?
The Spicy Tomato.
Finally, what’s your favorite thing about Mort’s?
Just one? Our customers. They range in age from 21-91. It’s a really, really neat mix. I can see sweats and a tuxedo all in one night.
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Great article! We love Mort’s too — a family favorite! When my husband and I were facing a job change that would move us to Denver about 10 years ago, we made a point to go to Mort’s about every night in the last month we were living in Wichita. We knew it would be hard to find a “Mort’s” elsewhere. Thankfully, we ended up staying in Wichita! My fave is the Bloody Mary with the Beef Jerky — meal in a glass!
Emma is great! Awesome to see her get recognition. I met my husband at Mort’s and he even proposed there. Not sure who was more excited – us or the staff! That is how great they are.
[...] Some of the best martinis in town come from Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar (923 E. 1st St.). Aside from their wonderful 2-4-1 specials on Monday nights, they also have the largest variety of martinis in Wichita. Some of my favorites are the Mother Pucker martini and the Banana Split martini. They usually have something for everyone’s taste. Also, during the summer, Mort’s opens their patio and plays live music, which is perfect for enjoying a martini. (Read more about Mort’s.) [...]
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