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Michael Miller

Bar Mastery is a six module online course that will walk you through every step to become a bartender that bar owners and managers are looking for, even if you have zero experience. This course teaches you the skills and knowledge that experienced bartenders have refined over decades. We also help you find your first bar job, because as you may know, it's hard.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll learn over 80 lessons...

Module 1: Service

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Bar Mastery is a six module online course that will walk you through every step to become a bartender that bar owners and managers are looking for, even if you have zero experience. This course teaches you the skills and knowledge that experienced bartenders have refined over decades. We also help you find your first bar job, because as you may know, it's hard.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll learn over 80 lessons...

Module 1: Service

  • We start you off with explaining your core role in the hospitality industry and the mentality you need to have a successful foundation and positive career path.

  • At the end of this first module, you'll understand the three main aspects that contribute to a high level of customer service, how to convince your customers to spend more money in your venue, and over two dozen ways for you to make more cash tips.

Module 2: Equipment

  • You'll learn the safest and most correct methods to handle all bar equipment used to serve beer, wine and cocktails without looking like a newbie.

  • At the end of this module, you will know how to properly shake, strain, stir and chill cocktails, how to muddle for the best flavour, how to hold a jigger and pour spirits smoothly, how to open a bottle of wine that needs a corkscrew and one that's gonna pop, and how to pour the perfect beer from a tap (one of the best feelings in life).

Module 3: Masterclass

  • You'll familiarise yourself with your work space, learn what tasks to prioritise throughout a shift, and practical skills that separate the good bartenders from the great ones.

  • At the end of this module, you will walk, talk and think like a skilled bartender. You will know how to be more valued in the workplace, how to be fast and efficient, and how to make a bunch of cocktails at the same time like a boss.

Module 4: Bar Legends

  • You'll learn about the world's best bartenders from the 19th and 20th century who had the biggest impact on the industry and turned bartending into the way it is today.

  • At the end of this module, you'll have a firm understanding of who's who in the bar world, the options available to you should you choose to work in bars for your whole career, and at the very least be inspired make your own mark in the industry - because you can if you really want to.

Module 5: Cocktails

  • Watch me make the most popular classic and contemporary cocktails selling in bars today, without wasting time on outdated recipes or methods. I also make sure to go in depth on all the little things that make a drink perfect.

  • At the end of this module, you will know the recipes and methods to make high quality classic cocktails, and the history and origin behind each drink, so that you have some bar banter. There's more than one way to wow a customer.

Module 6: Career

  • If you've thoroughly studied, absorbed and applied everything taught in the previous five modules, congratulations. You've become someone worth hiring. It's time for you to go out there and get employed.

  • At the end of this module, you will know how to make a great cover letter and resume, ten ways to find and apply for jobs and how to ace your interview and trial.

  • You will also learn the wide array of options and progressions in the hospitality industry, whether that's winning cocktail competitions or becoming a travelling bartender.

Module 7: Wisdom

  • Before you head off, I give you the three most important lessons I have learned working in a bar. If you don't acknowledge these words of wisdom, your job will take a physical and mental toll on you, and your time in the industry will be short lived or full of resent.

  • At the end of this module you will know how to hold yourself at a high regard and how to keep your ego in check, something few people with talent do.

  • As a cherry on top, I've compiled a database of additional information and valuable resources to help you develop your skills further.

If you want to become a bartender that can hold their own with confidence but don't want to spend 3-12 months as a bar back before getting the chance, Bar Mastery is for you. Sign Up Now. Please note: There are critiques that the music is too loud. My apologies for this. I no longer have access to a bar to re-film. The lessons only exist on Udemy and can no longer be re-edited as my computer completely crashed when trying to back up all the files.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • A comprehensive understanding of all basic knowledge and skills required of a bartender
  • The recipes, origin and modern methods of the most popular classic cocktails
  • An expert strategy to get interviewed and employed

Syllabus

Understand your core role in the hospitality industry and the mentality needed to have a successful career and practical skills to earn your employer more money, along with ways to make more tips.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the history of bartending and highlights influential figures, which may inspire learners to pursue a long-term career in the hospitality industry
Teaches how to craft a cover letter and resume, which can help learners gain confidence and secure their first bartending job
Covers essential bar equipment and techniques, which provides a solid foundation for beginners in the bartending profession
Includes a module on customer service and sales techniques, which are important for increasing tips and customer satisfaction
Focuses on classic and contemporary cocktails, which ensures learners are equipped with current and relevant recipes
Acknowledges that the audio quality may be suboptimal, which may affect the learning experience for some students

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Reviews summary

Bartending skills & career prep

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation for aspiring bartenders, covering essential techniques, cocktail recipes and history, and valuable career guidance. Many appreciate the practical demonstrations and the focus on efficiency behind the bar. While the content is generally well-received, a frequent comment mentions that the background music is too loud in some lessons, which can be a distraction. Despite this known issue, the course is seen as helpful for those starting with zero experience and provides practical tips for finding their first bartending job, making it a valuable resource for entering the industry.
Excellent starting point for those with no experience.
"As a complete beginner, this course was perfect for getting started."
"Zero experience needed? They weren't kidding, it covers everything."
"Provides a solid foundation if you're completely new to bartending."
"Walks you through every step even with zero experience."
Teaches popular classic and contemporary cocktails.
"The cocktail section covered all the popular classics I needed to know."
"Liked learning the history behind the drinks, good for bar banter."
"Following along with the cocktail demos was easy and helpful."
"Provides recipes and methods for high-quality drinks."
Covers essential techniques for working efficiently.
"I learned how to properly shake, strain, and stir cocktails."
"Understanding the right way to handle equipment was crucial for me."
"The lessons on speed and efficiency really helped improve my workflow."
"Feel much more confident handling bar equipment and making drinks."
Offers practical advice for finding a bartending job.
"The job search strategies in the last module are worth the price alone."
"Felt more ready for interviews after taking this section."
"The resume and cover letter writing tips were straightforward and effective."
"Provides a good strategy to get interviewed and employed."
Background music is often too loud.
"The background music is way too loud in many lessons."
"Sometimes the music makes it hard to hear the instructor speak."
"Unfortunately, the audio quality is a significant issue."
"Found the loud music distracting while trying to learn."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Bartending Mastery - Cocktail & Bartending Masterclass with these activities:
Review Basic Alcohol Knowledge
Reinforce your understanding of different types of alcohol, which is essential for understanding cocktail recipes and bar operations.
Show steps
  • Review the main categories of alcohol: spirits, wine, and beer.
  • Research the common base spirits: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey.
  • Familiarize yourself with different wine varietals and beer styles.
Read 'The Joy of Mixology'
Expand your knowledge of cocktail construction and flavor pairings, which will enhance your ability to create and understand cocktail recipes.
Show steps
  • Read the sections on cocktail families and flavor profiles.
  • Experiment with different recipes and techniques described in the book.
Cocktail Recipe Memorization
Improve your speed and accuracy in making classic cocktails by practicing recipe memorization.
Show steps
  • Select 5-10 classic cocktail recipes from the course materials.
  • Practice reciting the ingredients and proportions for each cocktail.
  • Time yourself making each cocktail to improve speed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read 'Regarding Cocktails'
Gain a deeper appreciation for the history and evolution of cocktails, which will enhance your understanding of classic recipes and techniques.
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and sections on classic cocktail families.
  • Try making some of the classic recipes described in the book.
Create a Cocktail Recipe Guide
Solidify your understanding of cocktail recipes by creating your own guide with detailed instructions and variations.
Show steps
  • Choose 10-15 cocktails from the course or other sources.
  • Write detailed recipes for each cocktail, including ingredients, proportions, and instructions.
  • Include variations or twists on the classic recipes.
  • Design and format your guide for easy readability.
Design a Signature Cocktail Menu
Apply your knowledge of cocktail creation and flavor pairings to design a unique and appealing cocktail menu.
Show steps
  • Research current cocktail trends and customer preferences.
  • Develop 5-7 original cocktail recipes with unique flavor profiles.
  • Write descriptions for each cocktail that highlight its ingredients and taste.
  • Design a visually appealing menu layout.
Attend a Local Bartending Event
Connect with other bartenders and industry professionals to learn about new trends and techniques.
Show steps
  • Research local bartending events or competitions.
  • Attend the event and network with other attendees.
  • Ask questions and learn about their experiences in the industry.

Career center

Learners who complete Bartending Mastery - Cocktail & Bartending Masterclass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Bartender
A bartender crafts and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, manages bar inventory, and ensures customer satisfaction. This course, with its emphasis on service, equipment handling, and cocktail preparation, directly prepares students for the role of a bartender. The course covers essential skills like shaking, stirring, and pouring, as well as practical knowledge such as managing a bar station and reducing wastage. It even dives into the history of mixology, which adds a layer of depth to a bartender's knowledge. The 'Career' module offers specific guidance on finding employment, a critical aspect for aspiring bartenders.
Mixologist
A mixologist is a skilled professional who specializes in the art of crafting cocktails, often creating original recipes. This course will be helpful to become a mixologist as it provides a foundation in classic cocktail recipes and techniques. The course also explores the history of bartending from the 19th and 20th centuries, providing an understanding of the evolution of cocktail culture. For those looking to innovate, the detailed teaching on flavor combinations in the cocktail modules will help aspiring mixologists develop their own unique creations. The course's focus on technique, such as muddling for flavor and understanding how to balance spirits, is essential for becoming a mixologist.
Bar Manager
Bar managers oversee the daily operations of a bar, including staff management, inventory control, and customer service. While this course focuses on bartending, it's essential knowledge for a bar manager to be familiar with all the duties of a bartender. The 'Service' module emphasizes customer service and sales, crucial aspects for managing a successful bar. The module on bar legends helps provide perspective on the history of the industry. The course also offers insights into practical skills, such as reducing wastage, which is important for bar managers looking to maximize efficiency and profit. This course provides a solid foundation for anyone considering a career as a bar manager.
Beverage Consultant
A beverage consultant advises restaurants and bars on their drink menus, inventory, and overall beverage program. While this role is very much business-oriented, this course provides a good foundation for a consultant who specializes in cocktails. The 'Masterclass' module, which teaches efficiency and prioritization, along with the 'Cocktails' module, which teaches the recipes and history of classic drinks, supports a beverage consultant's understanding of the practical side of the bar business. Knowledge of the bar equipment and techniques is also valuable. The course's teachings may be useful to a consultant who works with bar owners and managers, especially when discussing the details of drink preparation.
Restaurant Manager
A restaurant manager oversees all aspects of a restaurant's operations, including the bar area. This course may be useful for a restaurant manager, as it teaches the different skills and roles in bar service. The course's emphasis on customer service and sales mindsets can improve a manager's ability to train staff and increase revenue. The 'Masterclass' module, with its focus on efficiency and workflow, also provides valuable insights. By taking this course, a restaurant manager can gain a deeper understanding of the bar operations, leading to more effective management. Knowledge of drink preparation and bar equipment allows a manager to better oversee bar staff.
Catering Manager
A catering manager plans and executes events, often involving bar service. To handle beverage services, having a strong foundation in all things cocktail will help a catering manager plan for an event. This course covers everything from recipes to equipment to the mentality needed to succeed in a bar environment. The course's focus on efficiency and speed is particularly useful for high-volume catering events. The course can be beneficial for those who want to add bar service to their repertoire. This course provides a look at what happens behind the bar, which can aid in planning and logistics for catering managers.
Barista
A barista prepares and serves coffee and other beverages, often in a cafe setting. While this course focuses on alcoholic beverages, both roles involve customer service and beverage preparation. The 'Service' module emphasizes the importance of customer interaction and salesmanship, which is directly applicable to the barista role. The course's detailed approach to efficiency and handling equipment can help a barista develop good habits. Although the focus of this course is not coffee, it may be helpful to those who want to understand all facets of beverage service. The skills that this course teaches can transfer to a barista role.
Nightclub Manager
A nightclub manager is responsible for overseeing the operations of a nightclub, which often includes a busy bar. This course helps a nightclub manager understand what goes into a bar's success. The course covers practical skills, like how to prepare cocktails at high speed. The modules on customer service and sales techniques are valuable for creating a positive atmosphere and increasing revenue. The course may be helpful to a nightclub manager who needs to maintain a busy and profitable bar section. The course's lessons on efficiency, speed, and service apply directly to high volume environments.
Event Planner
An event planner organizes and coordinates events, which can include setting up and managing a bar. This course can help an event planner who wants to add beverage services to their offerings. The course helps provide insights into the bar so that an event planner can better understand how to serve drinks to a large group. The course's focus on speed and efficiency are useful for large events. The history and knowledge of classic cocktails can help the event planner choose drink options. This course might be an unexpected resource for an event planner, allowing them to add more value to their services.
Hotel Manager
A hotel manager oversees all aspects of a hotel's operations, which may include multiple bars. This course may be helpful for a hotel manager who needs to understand the bar operations within the hotel. The 'Service' module emphasizes sales and customer satisfaction, which are core principles in hotel management. The lessons on efficiency and workflow in the 'Masterclass' module can help a hotel manager optimize bar service. By taking this course, a hotel manager can gain a better understanding of the bar, which can lead to improved operations across the hotel. This course's teachings may also be useful when directing bartenders.
Food and Beverage Director
A food and beverage director manages the food and drink services for a restaurant or hotel. This course may be useful to a food and beverage director who is overseeing a bar or cocktail program. The course provides a detailed approach to drink preparation and customer service. The 'Masterclass' module, which covers speed and efficiency, is valuable for anyone managing a busy bar. Knowledge of cocktail recipes, history, and bar slang will help a food and beverage director provide more informed guidance to their team. This course provides relevant knowledge to a food and beverage director, allowing them to oversee bar services more effectively.
Sommelier
A sommelier is a wine expert who advises on wine choices in restaurants and bars. While this course focuses on cocktails, understanding the nuances of beverage service can be valuable for a sommelier. The course provides a detailed approach to customer service, the correct use of bar equipment, and the history of cocktails. The course's detailed approach to handling bar equipment and customer service can be beneficial for a sommelier looking to expand their skills. The lessons on sales can be useful for a sommelier who is looking to suggest the right pairing. The in depth look at the bar environment can also be helpful to a sommelier.
Hospitality Trainer
A hospitality trainer develops and facilitates training programs for hospitality staff. This course may be useful for a hospitality trainer who needs to convey the practical skills of a bartender. The course's clear and concise structure makes it a useful tool for teaching. The 'Service' module emphasizes customer service, while the 'Masterclass' module provides hands-on skills. The 'Career' module provides direction on how to apply for positions. This course provides a foundation for a hospitality trainer to share their knowledge of bartending, potentially enhancing training programs.
Restaurant General Manager
A restaurant general manager oversees the entire operation of a restaurant, including the financial, customer service, and staffing aspects. This course may be useful to a restaurant general manager to understand the perspective of the bar component of the restaurant. The course helps the manager speak knowledgeably about drink service and techniques. The 'Service' and 'Masterclass' modules focus on making the bar more efficient and profitable, which helps the restaurant as a whole. The course gives a view of what's required and involved in bar service. A restaurant general manager can apply this understanding to improve the overall restaurant operations.
Pub Owner
A pub owner is responsible for running all business aspects of a pub. This course may be useful for a pub owner who wants to understand how bartending works and to better evaluate employees' skill level. The course introduces bar equipment and techniques, as well as providing insight into the sales and customer service aspects of bartending. The 'Masterclass' module provides practical skills that a pub owner may want to understand. This course provides a look into the bartender's world that will allow a pub owner to speak more knowledgeably to staff.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Bartending Mastery - Cocktail & Bartending Masterclass.
Comprehensive guide to cocktail creation and bartending techniques. It provides a deep dive into the fundamentals of mixology, offering valuable insights into flavor profiles and drink construction. It is commonly used as a reference by both amateur and professional bartenders. This book adds depth to the course by providing a more detailed exploration of cocktail theory and practice.
Offers a curated collection of classic cocktail recipes and insights into the art of bartending. It provides a historical context for many popular drinks and emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and precise techniques. It valuable resource for understanding the evolution of cocktails and the principles of classic mixology. This book adds breadth to the course by providing a wider range of classic recipes and historical context.

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