Ready for the Next Level? Experience Tootsie’s Through Sweet Te’s Eyes

Tootsie’s Cabaret isn’t just a club….it’s an experience. Known as the largest strip club in the world, it spans an incredible 76,000 square feet and is home to over 300 entertainers, a state-of-the-art sound system, and VIP experiences that attract high-profile guests from around the globe. Among the many talented professionals who bring this iconic venue to life is "Sweet Te," a bartender with a passion for hospitality, a knack for creating unforgettable drinks, and a story that embodies the energy and allure of Tootsie’s. In this interview, Sweet Te shares her journey, the thrill of working in such a legendary venue, and what makes Tootsie’s a must-visit destination.

1. Where are you from, and what brought you to Miami?
I’m of Egyptian and Dominican descent. I was raised mostly in New York, but my family moved to Florida when I was 9 years old so my father could further his career in computer engineering. Twelve years ago, I decided to move to Miami to pursue my dream of bartending.

2. Tootsie’s Cabaret is famous for being the largest strip club in the world, with an impressive 76,000 square feet. How does it feel to work in such a massive and iconic venue?
When I decided to become a bartender, I googled “#1 club,” and Tootsie’s came up. I had already been a general manager and a front-of-house manager for a couple of years at a young age, and I wanted something more exciting and rewarding. Getting the opportunity to work for such a prestigious venue still feels like a dream!

3. The second floor of Tootsie’s has a reputation for being a VIP area. Are there usually high-profile guests up there, and do they interact with the bartenders and staff?
Our VIPs are unmatched. From A-list athletes to top-tier celebrities, we host them all. I’m privileged to be part of our Next Level team, which is accustomed to serving a very high-end clientele daily. These elite clients not only interact with us but also trust us for our impeccable service, discretion, and welcoming, family-like vibe.

4. With over 300 entertainers working at Tootsie’s, what’s it like collaborating with such a large team, and how do you all keep the energy up throughout the night?
With entertainers from around the globe, we keep the energy up by being ourselves around one another! We have so many different backgrounds and personalities that it’s nearly impossible to have a dull moment. Plus, we all love to dance and share in each other’s day, which creates an amazing dynamic.

5. With all the great music and energy around you, do you ever feel tempted to get out from behind the bar and join the dancers on the floor?
Our DJs are some of the best in the industry! The music is incredible all day and night, so I’m often dancing behind the bar while making drinks. I never miss a beat, but the pole hasn’t called my name just yet!

6. As a bartender, you must have some memorable stories from working at Tootsie’s. Is there a particular night or interaction that stands out to you?
One night, I had the chance to serve one of my favorite athletes. They enjoyed my service so much that they gifted me courtside tickets to a few games! They’ve remained a loyal client, and I’m honored to have built an incredible roster of loyal guests over the years through interactions like these.

7. For someone new to Tootsie’s, what would you recommend as a “must-try” drink, food, or experience to get a taste of what makes this place so special?
I recommend visiting me, “Sweet Te,” at the Next Level Bar Thursday through Saturday after 9 PM. I’ll give you a full rundown of our amazing club and ensure you get the VIP experience of a lifetime! Of course, you can’t leave without trying our world-famous lemon pepper wings (fried extra crispy), our Chicken and Steak Alfredo, and finishing off with our delicious funnel cake fries. Don’t forget to wash it all down with one of my signature top-shelf Sweet Long Island Iced Teas or Margaritas!

And there you have it! Now that you’ve gotten to know Sweet Te, stop by our Next Level bar and say hello! Don’t forget to follow us for more one-on-one interviews with Tootsie’s amazing staff and gals!