Greg runs a solid program. He keeps the energy high and makes sure you're not just memorizing drinks but actually understanding how to move behind the bar. The classes felt like real bar scenarios--fast-paced, hands-on, and no fluff. I appreciated how much one-on-one attention we got, even in a group setting. If you're serious about bartending and want a crash course that actually prepares you for the real world, this is it. read more

The class was challenging! However I learned a lot for someone that never has bartended in their life. Greg is very knowledgeable and professional. I definitely recommend his class for beginners. A lot of great advice and real life stories were shared which I thought was interesting. Definitely thinking about coming back for the mixology class! read more

Had a blast learning how to bartend at Startenders. Greg is the man and knows how to give students realistic work experience behind a bar. After learning about different liquors, all the functions of a bar, and the recipes of well-known cocktails, we were able to simulate the environment of a busy bar and challenge ourselves without fear of messing up. Would highly recommend taking a course at Startenders if you're interested in bartending! read more

Teacher is very knowledgeable with extensive experience in all aspects of bartending. Class is intense with useful information and hands-on practices that will make you confident in basics by the time you finish the course. Whether it's just for fun or looking at working in the field-I recommend the class! read more

I recently attended a 4 hour bartending session. I never expected it to be so much fun! I learnt a ton about the basic know hows of bartending. The instructor was fun! The cocktails we made were so amazing! I would definitely take this class again. read more

A-List Startenders - Bartending Schools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Being a top bartender is more than just making drinks, it's about knowledge of products, thinking on your feet, being creative and delivering a great client experience. All at the same time. With Greg's experience and industry knowledge, I know that given the opportunity, I will be a top bartender. Greg makes sure that every student is learning the correct way. It is very fast pace because the course is only 32 hours (over two weeks). I must say that after completing the course, I feel so ready and confident! I highly recommend this course, this school and more importantly, Greg. Thank you read more

We decided to take the essentials bartending class mainly because of the good reviews, reasonable price, and the fact that it was just one class session for anyone just curious about bartending. I think anyone can enjoy this class. You do not have to want to be a bartender. It could be if you are interested in the idea of becoming a bartender, if you want to learn how to make drinks when hosting your friends, if you just want to drink in a different way, if you are bored and looking for something unique to do, if you need a cute date idea, really there are a million reasons why you should and could take the essentials bartending class! It could entertain all! Now the class is 4 hours and I was worried it was going to feel long, but not at all. It was the perfect amount of time. 2-6pm on a Saturday was ideal as I could get dinner afterward (I would suggest the 11 minute walk to Community Tavern if you are a foodie and if you are more low key then Bacci's across the street). Or if you live in Chicago you took public transportation anyways so just go home. I'm a suburbs girl so I was thrilled that this location was easy to drive to and had free parking in the back of the lot! So suburbs people, do not be intimidated by the Chicago address, trust me you can drive there no problem! It's also a safe neighborhood to drive and walk around in. Greg is the owner and teaches the class. He is very funny, personable, and easy to listen to. We tried about 8-10 cocktails I believe. It was the perfect size portions! I liked that we tried a variety of drinks and used various methods to make them. It's important to know that you will not make all 10 drinks as that is not feasible. You and the other classmates will take turns making one or two of the 8-10 drinks demonstrated In front of the class and everyone will sample each drink. We tried a Bloody Mary, a mojito, strawberry daiquiri, an egg white syrup gin drink, a watermelon drink, a jalapeño drink, something with tequila. I can't remember the other drinks, most of them I liked. He also provided background information about the bar tools and various types of liquor and cocktails. When I got home I even bought a Boston shaker and a muddler lol. I would highly recommend this class or school or Greg in general! read more

My profile picture is me at graduation. Greg is awesome. Great teacher. Great price. read more

Mr. Greg was a delight to work with. He was very hands-on and informative. He made the class experience fun and very tasteful. He was very knowledgeable and taught several different delicious concoctions along with serving tips. He was comfortable pointing both strengths and weaknesses and encouraging. I truly enjoyed the two weeks of class. Again, Greg made this a fun and educational experience for me and I am grateful for all he taught me. read more

I completed the two week bartending course with Greg last month, and it was well worth the money. I learned so much more about liquors and cocktails than I knew before, and I got hours of valuable hands-on experience practicing making drinks on demand behind a bar. I now feel well prepared and ready to work behind any bar with confidence in my knowledge and skills as a formally trained bartender! read more

I just made the switch to the hospitality industry, so I was looking to get educated and trained quickly. I discussed with my cousin about his experience taking the Elitte Bartending School curriculum. He told me they didn't even offer him BASSET certification and he didn't like that the instructor there didn't have any sort of bartending experience, ever. I was just too skeptical to spend money on a course that he didn't even have a good experience with. I signed up for this course instead because I saw all the good reviews and because it offered a BASSET certification. I finished the 2 week course and feel very confident about applying for and working a bartending position now. Greg was extremely insightful when discussing his personal experience in the industry (which he has a ton of ) and with his curriculum (which seems refined over the 7 years this course has been running). You will be tested on the material that is taught, so you'll have to take notes and study at home to prepare for the class. This sounds stressful, but the curriculum is set up for you to learn everything at a good pace and be confident by the end. The set up of the place is half classroom, half bar. The bar set up was incredible and was the biggest reason for my 5 star review. You can tell the effort he puts into making the bartending simulation as accurate as possible. You'll be put behind a state of the art bar as you learn practical methods and techniques of bartending. I cannot express how grateful I am for the bar set up. I was considering all the Chicagoland options when I searched which course to enroll in. I promise the extra money spent here is 100% worth it. Greg will set you up for success. read more

Hands down one of the best teachers Really give students the skills and knowledge they need to know read more

If you're reading this review and aren't in the mood for the entire book - the short version is if you're at the point where you're committed to going to bartending school and are just choosing which to go to, this is the one. 100%. Here's why: I just finished A-List Startenders' 2 week course. It was a truly incredible experience. Although time will tell whether or not it turns out to be a financial win, I can confidently say that it was one of the best investments I've made in a long time. Greg is the man. He speaks from years of experience in his teaching of the class and it shows. You will be learning from an absolute professional in the industry, and it goes well beyond the preparation of cocktails. You will gain practical knowledge of the day to day operations of tending a bar - how to prevent it from looking like a pig sty and treating customers in a manner that makes them want to come back (and perhaps leaving a larger tip than they would have otherwise). You will be tested on what you're taught. Pay attention, take notes. Study a bit. It was honestly a bit more intense than I expected - but it speaks of the quality of the curriculum. Now don't go in here expecting your high school history teacher. Greg isn't the most politically correct. He makes jokes that those with a vanilla sense of humor might be offended by. For me and the rest of my classmates, it made the entire experience wayyyyy more entertaining that it would have been otherwise. But once again, if you're a bit of a prude, consider yourself warned. You might want to look at a different industry altogether actually. To sum up - I looked at all of the competitors in the area. The lack of quality was evident. Spend the extra $100 - it will be one of the best purchases you'll make all year. read more

If you are looking to take up bartending as a profession, then look no further. To start off, I want to mention how Greg is more than just an owner and an instructor, he is a 13 year old veteran bartender who will provide you with not just an educational experience but will also share his knowledge from years of hard work and experience. You're getting best of both worlds: textbook knowledge and the perspective/advice from someone who has already climbed the ladder. I was happily surprised by how fast paced the classes were. Not only are you learning theory but "hands on training" is also provided from Day 1. Everything you will use and need to know at a bar is taught, including: how to hold a bottle, pouring, usage of bar tools and other equipment, POS, register, various liquors, techniques, and how to apply all of your knowledge and to work efficiently, simultaneously. In addition to that, insight in regards to reacting in different scenarios, etiquette, customer service, and necessary preparation of how to both apply and get the job are provided. Last but not least, you need to understand that you are definitely getting more than what you paying for. Greg's heart and soul is in his business and he is there to make sure you succeed, as well. The only reason as far as why the class would not work out for you, is if YOU don't put in the necessary time and effort. Without a doubt, even if you have previous experience, this two week course is going equip you with the foundation you need if this is the industry you are looking to be in. Thank you, Greg for everything and know that not one bartending school out there can do what you do! read more

A-List Startenders - Bartending Schools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I took the two week Professional Bartender Course, which was engaging but enjoyable. I really thought four hours a day was going to be long, but each class flew by. The curriculum is entirely unique having been developed with the expertise of a bartending veteran who integrated his experience into providing students with the knowledge and skill to be successful. Greg, the teacher and owner of A-List, is really down to earth. He really doesn't ask for much except to actually study the material given for the exam. Greg teaches about the history of spirits and cordials, which is helpful to make recommendations for patrons, as well as strike up a conversation. His dictionary is a little bit more explicit than most, but his humour makes up for it. A-List has a soda gun, speed rails, "fully stocked bar," "draft beer," and mixers with small details that won't be found at other bartending schools. Greg also sells custom made bartending tool sets, which can be purchased at a very reasonable price. If you're looking to be fully immersed and educated in bartending, A-List is your school. read more

I survived the 2 craziest weeks of my life!! This course is awesome for anyone who wants to think about possibly getting a bar tending job... or be crazy enough to want to open their own bar. It can literally take someone who doesn't know a single drink recipe or how to count pours (like me) and turn them into a bartender! Greg is a great instructor. He knows what he is a talking about, is very honest and keeps his students engaged. He can also be strict about the course materials, so make sure you really want this and have time to study before you start. The 1st week is rough with studying and memorizing. NOTE: If you know that you are going to be busy this week you may want to push it off until after the class! You are expected to be here every day on time (you can come in early to practice your pours if you want). During this week there will be a test every day so be prepared!! The 2nd week is faster paced and is a little more fun. I think my favorite part of this class was the timed drink making game. I had to stay on my feet and recall the recipes in seconds. It helped me to remember the drinks and also get better at moving around the bar. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed if you come here for class! read more

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THIS is where you NEED to go to for bar tending school. In my line of work - it's my job to shop around and do my research - to do this for the top bar tending schools in Chicago IL I started by finding the information online - networked with whatever students that completed these programs that I could, to get opinions - and then personally visited the top seven places that I found to get a rundown of what each place had to offer. Let me repeat. A List Startenders Bartending School is where YOU want to go to get trained in this line of work. The following highlights are what makes my experience stand out for me - and are just a few of the reasons that I recommend this school to EVERYONE looking to become a bartender. There's a HUGE foundation of knowledge in history and theory of the job and brands that is taught that has prepared me on how to present the products - the methods used to teach everyone on how to prepare the drinks are expansive and have greatly prepared me for the real-world challenge - it's extremely fun - but you have to work hard and earn it to be the best - the instructor is extremely creative and involved in his students' learning - he has some really smart ideas when it comes to presenting the information and actually getting us to practice and perfect the skills. He CARES about what he does - and it shows - and the result is that his passion creates the best learning experience and outcome. THIS is something that I need to point out - this school prepares you to be a "high-ringing" bartender at a fast-paced club - it's easily a cut above what I both heard and researched for myself the other options have to offer because of just how much is put into the schooling that you can either take away from it or keep coming back to it to improve. I'm not sure if I can touch upon all of the details that made this school stand out since, for those of you reading this that are trying to make your selection, I was once at that point too. And when it came down to it, I just had to make a choice with all of the information that I had compared. I chose correctly. Let me reiterate - and this is what I'm telling all of my friends and anyone I meet that wants to go to bar tending school: THIS is the right choice. It's fun - it's challenging - it's informative - it is SUCH a bargain for what you can get out of this course. The instructor makes it an imaginative experience that IS GROUNDED in real-world practice because he's DONE these things - he's open-minded, has an awesome dog, and is extremely creative and skilled with what he does and how he teaches. You will learn so much in this school - and it opened so many doors for me because of HOW this particular school is organized - you'll walk away from the program feeling accomplished and with the confidence to either get that first job or move on to the higher end / harder-earning positions. It's a fantastic way to learn - and it's an absolute bargain for the opportunities (job-wise and learning-wise) it will present you. If you're doing your research vigorously, like I did, let me save you the trouble: A List Startenders Bartending School is the one to choose. I guarantee that it's the right choice. I understand that it wouldn't be fair to reveal all of the reasons related to the practice and curriculum provided at the school - especially to the other choices - but my way of summarizing my opinion is to remind you that there is NO other option that will prepare you the way that this one does. THIS SCHOOL IS UNIQUE. Take my word for it - go through the program - and you'll thank yourself for making the right decision. *once you experience it and become a badass bartender, you'll get the gist of just HOW WELL this particular school prepares you. Do yourself the favor and pick A List Startenders - the school provides you the best opportunity to gain the skills - put in the work - and you'll become the best bartender. This was one of the best investments that I've ever made - and I will always recommend this program as the top choice. Trust me - one of the best business decisions I've made. read more

Greg is one of the most knowledgeable guys I've met. I mean - dude REALLY knows his stuff. But what more could you expect from a bartender with so many years in the game? I cannot even begin to describe the level of dedication and seriousness Greg takes his job. It's incredibly admirable and makes you certain that you made the right decision by picking this course on day 1. If you're looking for an A grade bartending school that will teach you everything you need to know any then some for an EXTREMELY reasonable price, look no further. Professionalism is the name of this game and Greg embodies it. He's a candid guy who really cares about the growth of his students and even provides support post-completion. I went into this program knowing absolutely nothing and now I feel confident about my ability to work a bar. From beginning to end Greg walked through the General techniques and subtle nuances that make a bartender and then set the good ones apart from the rest. Not only will you get your BASSET certification from this course, you will also get a certification from the school that denotes completion and confidence in your skill level. Anyone with a willingness to dedicate two weeks of their life doing a little studying a night and having fun practicing behind a bar with real soda guns, bottles and tools can complete this course. It's manageable with the right amount of determination. The custom tools that Greg also offers for sale at the end of the course are absolutely worth it and also severely underpriced. Don't look any further for your educational investment. A-List Startenders is where you want to be. read more

I really enjoyed the Mixology class. I learned a lot as a newbie and am strongly considering taking the certification course. Instructor was very down to Earth and kept it through the course. in also didn't expect to learn all the drinks that we did. You'll definitely enjoy it so bring a friend. The only suggestion I would make is to have light snacks. Chips and salsa or peanuts. Ya' know, bar food read more

Greg is an amazing teacher. He's super easy to get along with and will happily answer any questions you may have. This is by far the best experience in not only bartending schools but classes in general. You will learn a lot, be able to practice on the mock bar, and walk away certified and ready to get a job. I would highly recommend anybody who is interested in going to a bartending school to take A-List over any other schools. read more

It was the most engaging and intense learning experience of my life...and I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT! Greg is a hard worker, and that shows deeply in his craft. You will learn a lot, and you will learn to do it right. As right as you do it fast. This is not a knitting or yoga class, this is bartending. Fast paced, intense, perfectionate, yet elegant. I grew up in my grandfather's banquet hall and thought I knew what it took to be a bartender. This class showed me I was wrong, and there was quite a bit I did not know. First day we learned the basics, which are definitely not too basic. Each day I ran home to test and practice my new found skillset and knowledge. By day 3 I was amazed at my progress in such a short amount of time. Going into work I felt far more confident than I have ever been. At the end of class we were able to purchase our own bartenders kit - that was of extremely high quality for the price I might add - and it had some tools I never even knew I needed! When we host large events at our banquet hall and have multiple bartenders, the crowd I have versus the other's speaks for itself! I have gotten nothing but compliments and my take home pay has increased exponentially. The class paid for itself on my first weekend back working the bar and then some. I now run my bar like a well oiled-machine, and I owe Greg a huge thanks for making this a reality!  If you are thinking about going, just go for it. I have gotten nothing but compliments time and time again not just from my guests, but from other bartenders who have worked a long side me and have been in this industry a lot longer than I have!  I am looking forward to future refresher courses, thank you Greg! read more

This course taught me not only how to bartend but also built my confidence. This school has everything you need: a full bar set up for every student, bar tools, live simulation drills, invaluable and timeless information about bartenders and their patrons. Greg doesn't just teach you how to be a bartender, he teaches you to take pride in each pour. Bottomline: I had a blast, I'm confident in my ability to be successful, and it cost way less than my college tuition. Do it. read more

Wow! The name of the school fits, honestly it should be called A PLUS List Startenders. Greg is an astounding instructor, The Bartender Guru. He goes out of the way to help you, especially if you are having problems with either the mixology, glass names, live stimulation drills or even if you missed a question on his quizzes. He WANTS you to succeed. I do not regret taking this course, and highly recommend this place if you want to be a bartender or even own your own bar one day. My confidence is up to the roof. I feel like I have bartended for years. I loved every minute of this class, from the first to the last. 100/5 stars. read more

If you are interested in becoming a professional bartender, I would definitely recommend the 2-week bartending class at A-List Startenders. Greg did a great job teaching about products and techniques along with good tips for finding a job. There was lots of time to practice including simulations that really helped give the students the knowledge to react to real situations. You have to put in the effort to learn the material, but Greg really goes out of his way to help students to succeed. The mixology part of the class was also a lot of fun. I would definitely recommend this class if you want to improve your skills or learn bartending to start a new career. read more

I did my research before choosing A List Startenders, and I am very glad that I did. The cost is in the same ballpark as Elitte & ABC Bartending Schools, but from what I've heard, the experience is worlds better. We used real soda guns, live bottles with pourers, real registers, and did active training including taking care of multiple customers while managing the tickets coming into the service well. After the 2 week training, I am confident in the skills I've learned as a bartender. Greg, the school's owner, is very real and has many years of experience both being a bartender in high volume locations in Chicago, as well as as an instructor operating the school for years. His interactive training pushed us to the limit getting us ready to dive into difficult locations such as downtown night clubs, and despite worrying that I'd be overwhelmed by the speed and accuracy demanded by these jobs, I now feel empowered to take on any industry job. A+ for A List! read more

Greg was an absolute phenomenal teacher. He educates you on everything you need to know from the history of Alcohol, to common signature cocktails, and learning the proper way to use each tool correctly. I was there for the 3 hour Essential Mixology class back in October 2019 and came back to complete for my Certification Course this month. Really cares about his students succeeding and will be there on your side walking you through it until you get it right. Will definitely be recommending friends and family to take this class if they want to become a bartender or to just have the experience to do at home/family events. read more

A-List Startenders - Bartending Schools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Mixology class is a fun and informative class! Go with friends and enjoy learning new skills and enjoy great drinks!

Amazing! Greg led a Mixology class for a group of 8 of us where we made 10 cocktails. None of us had done something like this before, but Greg made us comfortable and helped us to learn some really useful skills. We played music, ate our own snacks, and made (and consumed) drinks of all kinds. We had a fun and engaging hands-on experience, leaving the class feeling ready to host guests and take our drinks to a few levels above our classic vodka cranberries. Such a fun experience, while also remaining professional and classy. You totally deserve 5 stars, Greg. read more

I just recently took a Mixology course and it was fun and informative . Knowing the different glasses and tools really helps with knowing how to make and serve a cocktail the right way . I would definitely consider going back for their bartending classes . read more

I knew nothing about alcohol other than just drinking them. After the accelerated program my knowledge, skills, professionalism, and cleanliness of bartending was better than 95% of the bartenders to Chicago. This is the place to come if you want to learn the right way. I've worked and talked to other bartenders that went to ABC, or elite and they are horrible. Here at A list Startenders you will learn everything there is to know about bartending. Learn the right way and the best way with Greg; therefor you won't carry bad traits. Greg will make you stand out from all the bartenders competing to get the job you want. Trust me when I say it, after taking this course you will noticed how much your regular bartenders actually sucks; and I Guarantee it. And FYI the money you spend for the course will be easily made back in one weekend. read more

Anthony and Greg know exactly what it takes to make or break a bartender! They don't waste time on teaching you things you must know to be a successful bartender. If you think that it's a blow off class, you're in for a surprise. They have no remorse to fail you, and make you retake the final. They don't expect anything less than perfect when it comes to knowing how to bartend. Hardcore Hands-On training, with real life scenarios. If you study the things they teach you, you will have the best time of your life. I graduated in October and I've been bartending ever since. Not only do they teach you everything you need to know, they actually do get you a job. Once I graduated, the very first weekend, they hooked me up with a job. I would HIGHLY recommend A-List Startenders if you want to become a bad ass bartender. Sincerely, Eman read more

This is the Military of Bartending schools! They will kick your ass in 40 hours of rigorous hands-on training. In the end, if you have the energy and will to learn, you will come out a pretty damn good bartender with a marketable potential greater than any other place. I am confident that graduates from this course can take on graduates from any other school in a real life situations and go above and beyond any expectations. They teach you secrets and special techniques that will instantly put you above any average bartender in the city. Don't be fooled by schools that will have you make who knows how many drinks in ten minutes. This place will transforms you into an efficient drink making, money handling beast. The instructors are working bartenders in the some of the biggest/ busiest clubs in Chicago and are more than willing to share their knowledge and skills to make you the best bartender you can be. read more

The A-List Startenders School has got to be one of the best around... and I definitely shopped all over Chicagoland first. The other schools just can't match this one. When I started the 2-week course I didn't realize just how much Greg T's program would prepare me for the bartending world. At this school, you learn more than how to make a few drinks. You get an education that will totally prepare you for a fast-paced lucrative career in bartending! Greg's professional no-nonsense style combined with his patience and sense of humor kept the class motivated and on point the entire time. Make no mistake, you don't take Greg's class to make friends and goof around. This class is for people who want to learn how to kill it behind the bar. You learn the history of spirits, bar setup and organization, BASSET training, how to make drinks FAST, how to write a resumé, and how to handle all the crazy situations this job can throw at you...Did I mention, how to make drinks FAST?! Truth be told, this class is tough. It should be. You're gonna sweat, but you're gonna feel driven every second. And really, walking away with sharp skills and the confidence to land your first bartending job is what matters. A-List Startenders is the way to do it! read more

Took the mixology class last september and I am glad that I came back for the professional bartending course. Greg kept the class very interesting and fun- and it was quite intense! His way of teaching is quite innovative and I have never seen anything like it before! Would definitely recommend this to others. In just two weeks, I learned a lot about the history, characteristics, and different types of liquors, as well as the proper techniques to make classic and trendy cocktails. Greg teaches and shapes his students to be better bartenders. From going over proper etiquette from opening and closing of the bar, to exposing his students to work under pressure serving different types of clientele. I also got my very first bartending tool set which was custom-made by the instructor himself, and got the set right away for a very sweet deal! Definitely coming back for future classes and events! read more

Just finished my classes here! Greg's a Baller, he loves what he does and he's great at it. If you want to be a PROFESSIONAL bartender, this is where you should go. You're expected to study hard and be involved because this class is HANDS ON, first day you are behind the bar and IN IT. There are so many little things I probably wouldn't know that would make or break a great bartender if Greg wasn't my teacher. Huge props to this guy. He works his butt off and it shows :) read more

Not only is this review long overdue, but it's incredibly well-earned. As a former bartender, with numerous years of experience, I'm active once again and on a major winning-streak with noteworthy upward momentum due almost exlcusively to the unparalled quality and content of everything I've learned from A-List's methodical, unrivaled, systematic approach and up-to-date nuance of the craft. Not only is A-List the only and exclusively comprehensive training program in the multi-state area from their proprietary BASSET training program to their one-of-a-kind hyper-realistic water-based method, they've developed an incredibly fun and engaging program that will take you from zero knowledge to elite-pro in a literally just days. With such a competitive and demanding market, whether you've got years of experience in your repertoire or you're an absolute novice, A-list Startenders will shape you into a true master of your craft. I couldn't be happier, and neither will you. Thank you Greg for such a next-level experience. There simply isn't anything that compares: this is a state-of-the-art course and facility. Highly reputable, highly rated, and highly recommended. read more

Great school, great instructor. I wouldn't go to any other place. Greg is straight with you at all times giving you the upfront knowledge needed to begin bartending while also slipping in tricks of the trade. If you're motivated, you'll do well and have the confidence needed to go out and start bartending. I got a job shortly after class. Since I had no prior experience, they had me train for 3 days.... except I was done, comfortable and on my next shift alone after the first day and progressing ever since. Great and small upfront investment compared to what you get out of it- a demanding but fun career. read more

If you enjoy making drinks and projecting hospitality towards others, I highly recommend A-list Startenders. This school will teach EVERYTHING; liquor background/history, how to make all types of drinks, being an efficient bartender, etc. The Instructor Greg is very thorough with each lesson. He'll constantly quiz you and have you do hands on practice to keep up with your bartending skills. read more

A must if you want to be on the fast track. Very professional, fun, and engaging. You'll learn all the basics and a bit of mixology to spice things up. You'll learn your liquors the history and the different characteristics. I already knew a lot of this stuff being in the industry for so long but I still learned so much and it was worth every penny. The instructor is great and the place is very clean and organized. Really accurate representation of a bar. I'll be headed back for refresher courses soon. Thanks Greg! read more

A while back I posted a review on Yelp for a different school that I'd gone to briefly. The link is http://www.yelp.com/biz/bartender-american-professional-schools-schaumburg in case you want to read it. This is an excerpt from a letter between Greg at A-List and I because I didn't tell him I'd gone somewhere else first. I wasn't sure if that would affect how I would be treated. "...I never found a good time to bring it up and now I can honestly say I'm so glad it happened because it led me to you. How would I compare it? The teacher was a nice guy. He was an older guy that had real corny jokes..." "...I had seen A-List first [on Yelp], but the one in Schaumburg was five minutes from my retail job. When I walked into APB, it smelled. It looked run down. Like a sh*tty dive bar. It was more about cranking out drinks but from what I saw, nobody was really watching for the pouring or the recipe. As long as the color looked right, he passed you. There were no tests that I knew of except the final, but I never got that far. It didn't prepare me AT ALL for real life like you did. He would stand at the bar and we would sit. He'd demonstrated how to make the drink once, we'd come around and do it and then we were free to leave. When I came to you I left everything I'd learned from APB and started fresh. As stressful as your bootcamp was, it was an awesome experience and when the guys and I went across the street to grab a drink after we all passed, we all said we were sad it was over. I plan on writing a Yelp, but I don't want to give away any secrets." So...secrets I can give away...#1 I saw in a different post that it really mattered if you had boobs. I was in a class with nine men. I was the only one with boobs and felt like we were all treated equally. #2 The instructor is a no BS kinda guy. I asked him on the first day if he smiled ever and he told me, "I'll smile when you guys learn all the recipes." It was the truth. We were taught what it takes to make it in the business today. #3 Oh, wow, do I wish I could tell you the rest because you just wouldn't believe. You'll have to see it for yourselves. I left after those two weeks feeling like a confident bartender. I learned not only how to sling drinks, but how to be employable. How to handle different real-life situations. Greg even helped us write our resumes. I would highly recommend this school. Especially when I have experienced what other schools are out there. read more