Entertaining Bar Tricks and the Secrets of a Successful Bartender
Introduction to Bar Tricks
One of the most fascinating aspects of bartending is the opportunity to amaze and entertain customers through simple yet captivating tricks. One such trick involves a coffee cup-like hand gesture and a piece of paper bill. Here’s a step-by-step guide to perform this trick:
Bar Tricks and Entertainment
Trick: Paper and Coffee Cup Hand Gesture
Ask a customer to hold their hand out as if they were holding a coffee cup, but keep their fingers and thumb straight instead of curled. Hold a bill with the bottom barely between their fingers and thumb, and tell them that whenever they want, they say 'go' and you'll let go of the bill. 9 times out of 10, they won't catch it. While the physics behind this trick are not fully understood, it's a fun way to see how customers get frustrated and keep saying, 'Hold on! One more time. I’m gonna get it this time!'
The Art of Bartending
Becoming a successful bartender requires more than just mixology skills. Here are 10 key tips to excel in this role:
10 Tips to Become a Barbender
Get a Job Working in the Bar. Start by gaining hands-on experience.
Master Drink Recipes. Learn how to follow classic and contemporary cocktail recipes.
Follow Rules and Regulations. Adhere to bartender and restaurant rules as well as liquor's regulations.
Shake Thoroughly. Most cocktails should be shaken at least 20 times.
Know Your Bar’s Products. Be familiar with the drinks and spirits your bar carries.
Chill Glassware Correctly. Ensure that glasses are chilled before serving.
Pour Beers Properly. Pouring beers into glasses at the correct angles and speeds enhances the taste experience.
Understand Wine Selections. Familiarize yourself with wine selections and the regions they come from.
No Foam on Bloody Mary. Do not shake Bloody Mary, as it will foam up.
Repeat Steps 1 to 9. Consistency and skill are key to building a reputation as an excellent bartender.
Service Excellence in the Bartending Industry
Service is the cornerstone of a bartending career. Here’s a breakdown of how to deliver exceptional customer service:
Providing Excellent Service
Greet Customers Immediately. Greet customers the moment they sit down, serve them water, and provide them with a menu. This small gesture sets a positive tone and is often overlooked by many bartenders.
Entice with Food Selections. Offer samples or a menu to draw customers in, especially during happy hour when they may get hungry after a few drinks.
Focus on Customer Attention to Detail. Scan your environment and be aware of what needs to be done. Professionalism and reliability are essential.
Customer Relationship Building. Remember regular customers' names and drinks. This personal touch can significantly strengthen customer loyalty.
Mastering Classic Cocktails and Bar Products
To be a successful bartender, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of classic cocktails and the products your bar carries:
Learning Essential Cocktails
Martini
Negroni
Margarita
Cosmopolitan
Mojito
Old Fashioned
Manhattan
Long Island Ice Tea
Classic Daiquiri
Caipirinha
Understanding Productivity
Knowledge of Products: Knowing which drinks your bar carries from A to Z can prevent you from looking uninformed. If you're unsure, ask and learn.
Best Book Recommendations: 'The Craft of the Cocktail' by Dale Degroff is an invaluable resource. The United States Bartenders Guild (USBG) membership is also highly recommended for networking and learning opportunities.
A Personal Story of Success in Bartending
I've had the privilege of being a bartender for 15 years in numerous establishments in Miami, South Beach, and Wynwood. By leveraging my natural people skills and deep knowledge of the bar business, I built a significant reputation that led to new opportunities.
One remarkable story involves serving a regular customer who approached me after two years of interaction. He extended an offer to join his team, leading me to transition from bartending to a personal assistant role for a CEO of a major corporation. This story highlights the importance of customer service, continuous learning, and maintaining a positive attitude in the bartending profession.
Conclusion: Being a bartender is not just a job; it's a role that requires skill, knowledge, and a passion for exceptional customer service. Successful bartenders are not only mixologists but also entertainers, relationship builders, and detail-oriented professionals.