Getting into bartending can feel like joining a super cool secret club, and deservedly so. Whether you work in a bar or just like making drinks at home, you’ve gotta know your basics. Another bartender here to teach you how to make a multitude of drinks that you’ll enjoy for the rest of your life.
Know Your Tools
Becoming proficient in using the proper tools is the key to being an effective bartender. Be sure you learn the basics, such as the shaker, jigger, strainer, muddler and bar spoon. Each tool is for a different job -learn to use them and it will make you more efficient, more confident.
Simply put, you get what you pay for; spend the money on good tools and they will last and provide many years of service. A bar that is up to speed with the right tools and gear just makes it easier all around.
Master Basic Techniques
Learning techniques from raw basics is fundamental to any bartender wannabe. Begin with shaking, stirring, muddling and layering. Every process changes the texture and flavor of the drink. Repeated practice will give you confidence and helps you to improve.
Knowing when to apply either method is the key. Shaking is great for cocktails with juice or cream in them, while stirring is best for spirit-forward drinks, such as martinis.
Understand Flavor Profiles
The secret to any successful bartender is about balancing flavors. Learn the five basic flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami. Knowing these elements is good for creating well-balanced, pleasing-to-drink cocktails.
Try different materials, and see what they do. Along the path, you develop your skills at crafting original and delicious beverages.
Memorize Classic Cocktails
The classics are the canvas for invention. Discover well known drinks such as the Margarita, Old Fashioned, Mojito, and Negroni. These are the classics everyone should have in their bar, to build off and learn to make other variations.
Once you have these recipes memorized, you’ll be able to deliver these drinks quickly and again, it will help you feel comfortable behind the bar. Make them until you can do them without thinking about it.
Focus on Presentation
Presentation contributes to the meal or beverage experience. Don’t forget the garnish, glassware or cleanliness. A cocktail may get much more than meets the eye from a simple garnish, such as a citrus twist or cherry.
If you tend bar, be sure to keep your bar area neat and orderly. Cleanliness in a work area creates a professional appearance that is so much more efficient.
Engage with Customers
And customer engagement is a key part of bartending. Meet and greet customers in a friendly manner and listen to their preferences. Good conversation makes for a good vibe and has a customer coming back.
Actively listen to constructive feedback and be open to ideas. This receptiveness to change for the better improves the customer experience.
Practice Responsible Serving
Responsible use of alcohol is important to me as a bartender. Observe signs of intoxication and learn techniques to deal with them. Again, water and the idea of food is helpful in moderating the amount.
Learn about laws and regulations for alcohol service in your area. It is for the protection of both you and the business that compliance is maintained.
Stay Updated with Trends
The Industry The beverage industry evolves constantly, as new trends develop with the changing tastes of consumers. Get the lowdown on the most popular ingredients, cocktails and techniques. Keeping up with industry news and workshops can ensure your skills are fresh and relevant.
Trying out trends gives you the opportunity to serve up new drinks and keep a wide range of customers coming through your door.
Build a Strong Palate
Having a sensitive palate makes you a better cook or baker, because the more you taste, the better you’ll be at making recipe adjustments. Getting a shrink or having a bad thought, you are glued to the former fire truck as a wide variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes dance in front of your eyes. It’s a good education on the many tastes and flavors out there.
Practice and tastings will hone your palate and turn you into a more skilled, inventive bartender.
Enjoy the Process
Bartending is supposed to be fun and gratifying. Enjoy the learning process and acknowledge your achievements. Each shift is a chance to get better and prove yourself.
Enter challenges with a can do attitude and a desire to learn. It is an attitude that will enable you to grow and have a very rewarding bartending career.
Conclusion
Bartending is a mix of art and skill, and it provides massive runway for creativity and connection. Through tools, techniques and flavor memorization, novices can create a sense of solid muscle memory. Interacting with guests and being in the know about trends makes the experience even better. Have fun and let your love for bartending exude out of each drink you craft.
