Served Blog Banner Girl: Q&A with bartender Tessa Rhodes of Masa

By Ron Swarner on January 5, 2015

Every week we swap out the Served banner art above, introducing you to the people who serve food and drinks in the South Sound. This week, meet Tessa Rhodes.

Server Banner Girl, Jan. 5-11, 2015

Tessa Rhodes

"Dark, deep red and full of zing, the Bloody Mary at the Harvester Restaurant's lounge is a patriotic salute to drinking - patriotic meaning one sip of bartender Tessa's concoction and I'm immediately at attention." I wrote that under the barfly pseudonym "Brad Allen" in the Oct. 23, 2006 issue of the Weekly Volcano. Tessa Rhodes, the bartender in the back lounge of the Tacoma Stadium District restaurant, was known for her Bloody Marys, serving them strong with a lime slice instead of celery. Rhodes has been pouring her enthusiasm into drinks for more than 16 years in Tacoma, including Hank's, Chopstix and her current gig - eight years at Masa. Besides delicious, well-crafted drinks, she's always good for an honest, interesting conversation.

Why do you like to serve?

"I have been a bartender for almost 17 years. I love the interaction with people - creating relationships and learning more about them. Also, the job is very active. I love going to work and knowing it'll be the same, but different, all at the same time. I'm not just sitting around."

Who is your favorite server in the South Sound?

"I have many friends in the service industry. I don't really have a favorite. I love all my peeps."

What are you most proud to serve?

"Honestly, after being in the industry for as long as I have, I most proud to serve a good product. I believe in great food and a drink that is made to perfection - which I believe we have at Masa."

What's your drink of choice?

"Well, I've enjoyed all types of alcohol, but I prefer Raspberry Stoli with 7 Up and a splash of cran." 

Favorite movie?

"That's a hard one. I do have to say I'm an '80s kid.  But, secretly I am an old horror movie junkie. I own them all and most of the new good ones. It's definitely a toss up between the Exorcist and Halloween. If I could get away with watching one of those on a weekly basis, I would." 

What don't you serve?  

"151. If you are taking shots of that you just want to throw up on yourself and there is so much more to enjoying yourself and your night in the bar." 

What's on your radar at Masa?

"We've been serving great and tasty new food and drink specials. And, I am always excited when we make new changes to the menu - which usually happens once a year. Also, being a part of our nightlife that is exciting, fun and providing a place for the guests to come and have a great night dancing with friends and family."

MASA, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11-2 a.m. Thursday and Friday, 9:30-2 a.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, 2811 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.254.0560

LINK: Meet other South Sound servers

LINK: South Sound Happy Hour App