TheBakersfieldCalifornian.com

Ask server Octavio Avila for a cure to the work-week blues and you're bound to get a smile, followed by a shot of traditional south-of-the-border hospitality.

Regularly serving spicy delicacies and shaking cool drinks to perk up visitors at Mauricio's Mexican Restaurant on White Lane, the mild-mannered favorite said he's always up for a challenge.

"When customers come in, I will always try my best to make them feel special," said Avila, 31, who has worked at the restaurant for six years.

"I've figured out what most people want when they visit us, but sometimes you have to develop your own personality to draw customers."

Spend a few minutes with the husband and father of three and you'll understand what makes him so popular.

While his perfectly pressed shirt, ready smile and humble demeanor help attract regulars, it's Avila's colorful personality that will draw you in.

"I have a good memory, and try to remember what everyone drinks after their first visit. And I like to serve fast, not slow."

If you've visited Mauricio's before you may already be acquainted with Avila, especially if someone happens to be celebrating a birthday or anniversary. Avila enters the room with a large decorative sombrero before launching into a bilingual birthday cheer. The server's favorite part is the sing-a-long.

"If someone is having a birthday at the restaurant, I like to start the group and try to sound like Vicente (Fernandez.) Then offer them a shot of tequila."

And while singing is one of his favorite hobbies, he also claims to be a pretty nifty dancer.

"I took my wife dancing on our first date. I must have been pretty good, because we started as neighbors and ended up married."

That humorous side to Avila's character complements his efficient working style, according to restaurant manager Silvia Manriquez.

"Octavio is a favorite of ours and many customers who come in every day. When he's not here, we miss him."

Originally a bus boy and dishwasher who had little interaction with customers, Avila started out content with the position before becoming confident enough with his English to request a new position as a server.

"It's hard to come from the kitchen to the floor. My bosses were concerned I couldn't speak clearly enough to be understood. My manager gave me two days a week to try it out."

Now heading into his seventh year as one of the restaurant's most popular servers, Avila remains humble.

"Many of my co-workers share the same life story as I do, and enjoy our life in the U.S. I feel very 'feliz/happy.'"

Admitting his English has room for improvement, Avila said his regulars help him to brush up.

"My customers also try to speak Spanish to me, so we always have fun during our conversations. I teach them and they teach me."

Another way Avila stays connected with customers is through the specialty drinks he enjoys mixing up behind the bar. Among them, the michelada: a mix of spicy Clamato, fresh lemon, and Tapatio hot sauce, chilled and shaken into a tall, cold beer.

"You always have to make it extra spicy, and if you're hungover, I'll make you the perfect bloody Mary."

Back at home, Avila enjoys spending time with his wife, Ruby, and their two children, Octavio Jr. and Mia, and their pet pooches Milo and Abby.

A fan of televised soccer matches, he also enjoys listening to the music of mariachi singer Vicente Fernandez.