Q & A with Chicago bar manager Gregg Weinstein
Explain in detail what all you provide for Lollapalooza?
‘I help manage beverage service at Lolla. Meaning we are the entire “Bar Ops” or bar operations for the festival. 20 plus bars plus vip, artists, media, etc. All liquids flow thru me.’
How far in advance does preparation begin?
’2 months prior we are all talking.’
How long have you been at this? How has it changed from year to year?
‘I think this is #8. Bigger. Better. It is a well run machine.’
What is the most challenging aspect of putting this all together and managing three Chicago bars at the same time?
‘I have great people working with me. I am just a cog in the wheel. Got to just communicate. Keep it all out in front of you. See everything. This is a little bit of a juggling act.’
What kind of stats can you provide for us (ordering numbers)?
‘None.’
Any crazy stories?
‘Well I say DeadMau5 saved us/me. On Sunday when the mother of all storms hit Grant Park what felt like the entire park tried to jam under the bar tent right next to the stage where DeadMau5 was going to play when the storm hit. As i felt like we were going to get crushed by the mad rush to get out of the rain Deadmau5 came on and EVERYONE turned and ran back out into the rain and danced to one of the best shows I ever saw/heard. Thank you Deadmau5.’
How often do people stop and ask if you are Bret Michaels?
‘When he was on TV I would get it a couple times a day. Now every once in awhile. Outta sight. Outta mind. Ya know?’
FUN FACTS:
- Gregg’s all-time favorite band is Led Zepplin. Currently, The Black Keys is his favorite.
- Gregg’s favorite celebrity to walk into one of his bars has been John Malkovich.
- 1991 was the first year of Lollapalooza.
- Interview by Kevin Doellman, Ayo Kdoe Productions
