1000% would recommend this school in Pasadena/Altadena! Raven is fantastic, was able to take me during COVID with social distancing and safety measures in place. The location is set up just like a bar with music and dim lights to mimic the real environment, not like a lot of other schools where it's like a science classroom. Flexible scheduling for classes, I couldn't speak highly of the course. Biggest plus is they guarantee job placement when everything is open again, but Raven and the recruiting team were able to find me a full time job within a month of graduating even in the middle of COVID. Already saving up to send my mother here, as it's always been a dream of hers to bartend and Raven has worked with all ages and backgrounds so I feel very comfortable sending her here! read more

Abc Bartending School - After a practical exam and a written exam, you'll get your certification - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

Honestly, I went to this bartending school, graduated from the program and did obtain a good bartending job. However my issue is with the fact that they advertise the ability to come back and brush up on the course for all alumni free of charge, but this is not true. If you try to do this, they will not return your emails or calls. I've tried to sit in on a course and go back for a day or two to brush up on my skills and they will NOT return my calls. They always say "so in so" will call you back and NEVER do. DONT advertise this as a selling point if you aren't willing to fulfill especially when so many other schools offer this. read more

I recently received my bartending certification from ABC bartending school and I absolutely recommend you coming to this location. Raven was beyond knowledgeable and she cares so much about her craft and it definitely shows in her teaching skills. You definitely won't regret it , I was also interested in taking this class and reading the reviews lead me to coming to see what this school was all about. I was not disappointed so I highly recommend anyone who's interested in taking this course to do it! read more

Abc Bartending School - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

More than worth it. The best investment, the best training, the best environment. I finished my class with so much confidence, and there's honestly nothing better than walking out of this course and knowing you're going to provide quality out there! Thanks Raven!! read more

Raven! is amazing at teaching . She even takes the time to tell you tips and answers any questions you have about mixology. I had a great experience and got confidence in myself more because of this class . read more

Abc Bartending School - ABC Bartending School - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

First of all, ABC is cheaper than a lot of other bartending schools out there. But RAVEN is the best teacher ever. The classroom is super dope and Raven sets you up with information and the experience to kill it out in the real world. She tells you how to nail your interviews and let's you come in even after you've graduated just to practice! The two other girls and I that were in my class are all working bartenders and we only graduated less than a month ago. Couldn't have gotten this far without Raven. Recommend her location specifically for this experience! read more

Raven is by far one of the best instructors/teacher I have ever had. She's very patient and clear in teaching and never hesitated to help. She goes over Sours, Martinis, popular cocktails, and the works. I really appreciate how she teaches the school drinks, but also goes out of her way to teach you drinks that are regularly ordered in the real world. She takes really good care of her work space changing mats and bottles after wear and tear from regular classroom use. On the real she's genuinely a really nice person and I really push for everybody to give it a try. The best part is after post grad she gives you advice on how to land a job and encourages you to come back and practice. She's hella nice and I am definitely recommending it to all my close friends. read more

Abc Bartending School - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

Raven is an amazing Instructor. Worth every penny. Taught me how to be an amazing bartender. The Atmosphere in her class is so realistic and super amazing. The vibe here is just like a bar you would go to. I Definitely recommend coming here and asking for Raven personally. Before you even start the class so you can get to know who your instructor will be. read more

Abc Bartending School - Drink on the house - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

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I totally recommend abc bartending schools. They are the best when it comes to teaching the know hows of the industry and business. The only reason I am giving a 4 stars is because I believe that for the most immersive learning experience you should take the weekday course. I took the weekend one but it seems to me it causes a human error of forgetfulness between classes and anxiety for those that overthink too much. My recommendation is to go have fun, ask questions and learn as much as you can while in class and outside of class. As a bonus if you have Raven as an instructor you are in for a treat when it comes to a very unique learning experience and aesthetics. She will teach you the ropes of high volume bartending which is essential for all the benjamins. read more

Raven is the best!!!!! , I could've picked a closer class to my house but ,reading the reviews I had to try it and her class was definitely worth it . She's very hands on and make sure you understand it and prepare you . The vibe here reminds me of a bar. I recommend anyone who wants to become a bartender to come here you'll love it :) read more

The instructor at this location is amazing! Nothing but the best here! Got so much hands on experience and all while having a great time!!! I would recommend anyone who wants to learn bartending to come and see for yourself how great it feels to know how to work the bar! Five stars all the way :) read more

Abc Bartending School - Mojito, Mai Tai, Electric Lemonade, Black Russian Cheers!!! - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

Raven is so down to earth and makes the class fun. She will help you get through the class but if you don't study and practice that's on you. She has catchy phrases that will help you remember the receipes. Love this class. Thanks again Raven. read more

Raven Graves is the only person you should be going to for bartending classes. She has a unique niche in the bartending world. She was my instructor at ABC Bartending School in Altadena, CA. She taught me the basics of mixology - how to "count the pour," basic ingredients in over 100 well-known drinks, how to choose the right glass, and the art of garnishes. I graduated with my bartender's certificate, COVID-19 precautions certificate, and the knowledge and confidence I needed to get jobs shaking and stirring. I plan to follow up with Raven to expand my knowledge even further by learning specialty drinks, "spooky" drinks, and to keep my skills fresh! I highly recommend Raven for her Mixology skills. read more

I went to Raven's morning classes about 5+ years ago, I've recommended her to friends looking to get into the industry because she cares about the craft and tells it like it is. I started as a barback and within a year I was promoted to bartender. Granted, I was a barista prior to taking the course, it won't give you the people skills required of customer service but it will give you hands on training and recipes to master. Take this class! read more

ABC is the best! Armando is a wonderful teacher. His guidance is incredibly insightful and he encourages his students to learn at their own pace. His follow up with his students after graduation is very supportive--he truly cares for the success of his students. ABC's policy of allowing past graduates to come back to practice at any time is helpful to perfect new skills and brush up on basics. ABC administration also has good communication. I would recommend this class for anybody who wants to learn how to bartend! read more

This place is really good to learn bartending skills. The instructor Raven is the one you should learn from when it comes to bartending. Learn from her and take some notes. The environment is really nice you don't feel like your in a class it's more like a real world bar environment. I do recommend this place. read more

Amazing !!!!!!!!!!!!! in love with this school and Raven !! she the best and very professional !!! she knows easiest ways to make you learn and remember all the drinks and she helps you and makes you to do it until its not in your head forever!!!! very very good teacher and example of real bartender !!!she is very beautiful too. not to mention her school interior its a wonderland you step in .and boooom adventures start ! greatful and beyond happy that i choose ABC bartending with Raven ! read more

I went here and had a great time and learned a lot. Raven is a awesome instructor and knows what she is talking about! She is nice and I really feel like she wants the students to succeed.The bar area also looks really cool and is like you are in a real bar. I would recommend anyone to come here if they want to start Bartending! read more

I wish I could give ABC Bartending 10 stars for hiring a 10 star instructor! Raven was and is an amazing blessing to my journey with bartending and a piece of what's happening in my life right now! I took her classes a while back with interest of changing careers and being out of the nightclub scene in Hollywood and Vegas. Booooooy was I in for a treat. Not only is she impeccable at what she does but the history and extra "little but mattering" things she includes JUST to make us more knowledge of spirits and liqueurs and prepare us for the outside world is something else! The classroom's decor isn't that of "the norm." But who wants white walls and no music? She creates a vibe for you that is not only cool and collected but was definitely closer to what I was transitioning from which made it funner to learn. My graduating class with her was very focused and I remember many of them just wanting to learn more. I remember freaking out because I am terrible at test taking and thought about the final even before we got done with lessons haha. She'd calm me down by reassuring me that, I got this. Almost 7 months later, I stepped into class to talk to reconnect with her and refreshed for a few days.... a few days later after fully choosing to want to bartend, I landed a job at one of the highest volume spots there is in Old Town! All thanks to her. She rebooted my confidence that I didn't have... and I learned how to do the rainbow shots! (Ask her later) haha. Thankful for Raven in so many ways. As an instructor and as a listening and guiding ear. If you want to learn how to bartend/the what nots/and what to dos, her experience in working with different environments is where you want to seek! Thank you Raven! read more

Raven is so great ! Loved the school I feel like I learned so much more than what I thought I would! The place looks great very inspiring! read more

This will forever be the location to graduate from. I was extremely nervous going back to school for something. Raven made the experience that much more. She makes you feel welcome and as if no question is a stupid question. No these reviews aren't bought...I noticed what one of the reviews said. I graduated last month and still come in to see how my FAVORITE INSTRUCTOR is doing. The best part is how she actually wants YOU TO LEARN & PASS! She still gives me great advice and helps me out daily. She's not just a teacher to me anymore but a mentor and a friend. ALTADENA ABC BARTENDING SCHOOL IS THE LOCATION TO GO TO! I love Raven and hope to be a bartender as skilled at her! read more

Abc Bartending School - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

ABC Bartending School in Altadena was an awesome experience. I really got that hands on experience that I need to help me pursue a career in bartending and succeed. Raven is an amazing teacher. She is very passionate about bartending and helping her students to reach there full potential. If you want to bartend and an instructor who cares about her students I recommend ABC Bartending in Altadena & Raven. -Semper Fi read more

Raven is the instructor here, and I GUARANTEE that this is totally unlike ANY other bartending school out there! First off, she dresses up like Elvira Mistress of the Dark, and the location themed out like a goth a dive bar. Other schools in L.A. might use plastic cups and foam garnishes. Here, it's all glassware and better garnishes. Her teaching style is very thorough. She will give you the ins and outs of the industry, how to ace interviews, and give you some wonderful back history on alcohol. You can also go at your own pace, within their structure. ABC has been around since 1977 (how many other bar tending schools can claim THAT ONE), and it's a true passion for the family, that still owns it. Due to this, they are very well known in the industry. If you are thinking about going to a bar tending school, do whatever you can to attend this location. Have fun and good luck out there! read more

Raven is such an awesome instructor! She really genuinely wants to see her students succeed and loves the art of bartending. In the way she teaches it is obvious she loves her job and what she does. She will teach you tips and tricks to really be competitive and make you ready to bartend. The environment is super cool. Really a genuine bar feel and makes you ready to really go out and start working. I can't thank Raven enough for the amazing experience. The 4 stars though, is for the guy that kept calling and bugging John. He was very pushy for card info and payment via phone which is really sketchy and almost scared me away. I decided to go view the school and meet raven and I'm so glad I did. If you are considering bartending I would 100% recommend taking the class with Raven, but i would suggest going to meet her and get information from her. The guy John will call non stop and be very pushy like he's a salesmen. Overall would HIGHLY recommend raven 5/5 stars, hopefully they just get rid of John the sketchy salesmen. & wouldn't recommend giving him any card info over the phone...... thank you raven! read more

I went through the two week program here and I will admit I was a little skeptical at first. Definitely not a classroom feel at all and the first time I walked in I wasn't even sure who the teacher was. Fabulously styled rocker teacher definitely did not fit into what I expected from a school, however Raven's style which reaches beyond her own wardrobe and into the amazing bar decor of the classroom really makes you feel like you're in a pretty cool bar. The music she plays during class makes it almost impossible to not dance as you practice making the drinks you've learned from the lessons. Greatest things about this class, besides the super fun environment, is the practice time is extensive. Everyday we have almost half of the class time devoted to practicing drinks. Raven, you can tell is so passionate about spirits. She has so much background information to share about just about every spirit we go over which is a lot. She tells stories of the experiences of other bartenders to know what to expect getting into this industry. I feel so prepared having taken her class and I feel lucky to have chosen this school and have such a great supportive teacher. Definitely worth the time and more than worth the money. read more

Abc Bartending School - Abc Bartending school - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

I went to this school with my friend during the weekends. And I only have nice to say about our instructor Raven! She is an outstanding teacher and was very informative with the lessons she had taught us and we had a blast learning all the drinks! So, if you ever thought about coming here! Do not hesitate and just come! You will not regret going there. read more

If you're reading this review right now and trying to decide whether or not you should attend the school, STOP RIGHT NOW and get yourself over there to sign up! The entire experience was so much more than expected and Raven is the most AMAZING instructor. Not only did she teach us the required curriculum, but she also went above and beyond by sharing with us a few of her own tricks of the trade. I landed an awesome job just a few weeks after completing the course, and a few friends I made in the class found jobs even sooner. Raven allowed us to attend class even AFTER we graduated just so that we could practice and polish up our skills. You'll learn everything you need to know to become a successful bartender in this class, so stop hesitating and just do it! You won't regret. :) read more

If you're taking this class, go to lake Avenue and learn under RAVEN. She's down to earth and understanding, but doesn't slack on the matetial. She never gives up on her students no matter how long it takes them to pick things up, and even after the class is over she helps you out. You couldn't get a better teacher if you could make one yourself. Tending bar is her passion and that passion is infectious. If you wanna learn tonmake drinks there's only one place to go and only one woman to learn from. RAVEN RAVEN RAVEN! read more

Raven thanks for your patience you're the best instructor and I get a job so easy oh!! and was so fun time with you and the other girls.Thank you. read more

This place is so amazing, how the instructors teach us is so easily to understand I feel that I learned faster and professional. I really recommend for whoever looking for to get a job as a Bartender should come to study at this location especially with this instructor. read more

Raven is the best bartending teacher out there! If you feel lost in your career go to Raven! She makes classroom learning fun and I graduated last June with her. I have gotten so many amazing bartending opportunities right out of school and I'm happy in my life now . I'm planning on taking the Advanced bartender class so I can liGht cocktails on fire, do rainbow shooters and do flaring etc! You can do so many things gain confidence and work anywhere YOU want ur the boss! Raven wants you to succeed she's best there is and so prettyy! read more

A year after bartending school, and I still give it 5 stars but figured for anyone else out there trying this career in the LA area, I should offer my experience so that hopes aren't too high. I started looking for my first food industry job toward the end of November. It seemed that I just missed the winter hiring season, as almost everywhere that I went had JUST hired a lot of staff for the holidays...so thats a note to remember. I took a job at Bevmo for the Christmas and New Years holidays, because it was walking distance from my apartment and I knew that it would be one of the best ways to get my hands on liquor bottles and learn as much as I could about alcohol. I quickly became the "holder of the lockup keys" and was that person who came running when you pushed the lockup button. I loved working there and did learn a lot, but I only stayed for a couple of months, as the pay was never going to increase past $9 an hour unless I wanted to manage, which I don't. In December I was hired as a hostess at an Italian restaurant, because I had no experience and that was the only position I could get. I quickly moved to cashier and made the espresso drinks, poured wine and served when servers were on break. Great experience, but not really bartending. In April when the restaurant closed for renovation I got hired as a bartender at another Italian place that was re-opening in Glendale. I ended up serving much more than bartending. The GM who was hired to hire all of the staff and reopen the restaurant ended up being a sex criminal with a mugshot online and was fired quickly after sexually harrassing waitresses. They were also not paying us correctly and the last I heard there was a labor board claim against them. My most recent job lasted 9 weeks at a bar and restaurant in Santa Monica. I got to really bartend, mostly alone, and learned how to pour draft beer. I loved the work and didn't really mind working 12-17 hour shifts some days with no breaks, but we were not being properly paid (half min. wage, no overtime, no breaks) and treated like criminals. So a year after bartending school, I'm once again hitting the pavement looking for a job. I knew that the first 1-2 years would be a constant struggle and climb as I gained experience, as nowhere reputable will hire you without any. Hopefully when I update a year from now I will be in a better place. And an idea of what you can make in tips. When bartending a slow day was making around $50-70 tips, that was usually day time or really slow nights at the Italian restaurants. On a great day/night, I made around $240, but that only happened a hand full of times so far. read more

ABC Bartending School is amazing. I just recently graduated and was in the morning classes that were two weeks. The instructor there is amazing. They really care about you and truly want you to get it. You walk out of there amazed at what and how much you've learned. You definitely learn about drinks and you also get background history which interest me. It's an amazing school. I never thought I'd enjoy learning about spirits and cordial, etc..... Hurry and call and join these classes. Great way to supplement your income. Thank you ABC Bartending School for giving me an opportunity to learn a whole new skill and a new found respect for bartenders. read more

Abc Bartending School - Bartending Schools Near Me - Altadena, California

At first, I was unsure if I made the right decision to attend ABC Bartending School at Altadena. However, I quickly realized that it was the best decision I made within the first day of class. I believe that Raven (the instructor) is an extremely experienced and qualified bartender/instructor. She made the class extremely fun, while sharing with us all her knowledge about alcoholic beverages, the history of alcohol, bar management, and more! I feel that this class is suitable for everyone. It doesn't matter if you just turned 21 and you're just beginning to be curious about alcohol or if you're in your 50's/70's; Raven creates a very aesthetically pleasing learning environment to have fun while becoming educated. I came to this school with my mom because she is interested in opening up her own bar. I, on the other hand, have always enjoyed mixing drinks--alcoholic and non-alcoholic. We both truly feel that we got more than what we expected and needed from this course. I can go on and on about Raven, but if you're unsure about this school/location/instructor, I can vouch for this school (as well as all the other 5-star reviewers!) So don't wait up and sign up for her class now before it fills up! read more

This was the best learning experience!! This instructor knows her stuff! She was very down to earth and just a cool chick! Raven made learning fun! When you walk into the class room you really feel like your in a bar. The decor is amazing! I walked in pouring drinks...I walked out feeling like a licensed certified bartender!! I highly recommend the Altadena location!!! It rocks!!! read more

I highly recommend working under Raven's expertise at the Altadena location. I couldn't have asked for a better bartender-training experience. I was expecting dry lectures under harsh florescent lights, but what I got instead was a practical, hands-on experience of what it's like to perform tasks in an actual bar setting -- from the interior decorating to the mood lighting to the music that plays nonstop over the P.A. The minute you walk through the door, you know it's going to be unique, fun, and a product of both Raven's personal touch and professional wisdom. If you do the work, absorb the lessons, and keep practicing, you'll pass the test no problem! read more

Can I just say that all the reviews here are Legit! This is a cool place to learn Bartending. Raven will be the instructor teaching you all you need to know both in life and Bartending. She knows all the ups and downs and the tips and turns that get you through as a bartender. I'm telling you guys she of the most interesting teacher/instructor/life coach/person I've ever met. She is very relatable and every lesson/day she teaches, you will always reflect and be a better person the next day. As far as the lessons and teaching goes, most of the time you will be behind the bar, mixing drinks, getting orders from a person or two to make your drinks. You will have a very hands on experience where it is almost exactly like a bar scene, dark, loud, a lot of distractions as well as being able to converse with people. You will learn a lot of drinks, you have to memorize them in your head but better if by heart. There is also a lot of trivia, facts and history you will learn in this class. Make sure to always keep them in your mind. One tip that I will give you is that to make sure to not skip class. It is awesome to immerse yourself there every single day if you get the chance so that when the final day comes you would be ready both for the exam and real life as well. read more

Just finished my 2 week course here at ABC Altadena with Raven and by far, one of the best decisions I have ever made. Do you need a Bartending school to get a job? No, but you do need this! Not just a class and a certificate, but a great knowledge of how to make yourself go above and beyond, so that you stand out when it comes time to apply for a job. From the drinks you learn to make to the knowledge of all the bottles on the shelf, Raven does it all! From Day one, you feel the passion behind her teaching, and the confidence you gain to get a great job behind the bar is AMAZING. She offers so much more than what is in the book. Had a very cool group of students, who are now friends of mine, along with great energy in every class. I would recommend this course in Altadena for anyone who is thinking about becoming a bartender. It's a MUST. So worth the time and money. read more

Best place to learn bartending, it's like having 2 years exp. in 2 weeks! If not more. Truly a bang for your buck, I thought these 5 stars were fake... Once I took a step in Raven's epic classroom, I knew I definitely made the right choice. read more

I was initially skeptical how good a bar school could be and whether it was really worth the money considering online courses can be purchased for $20 with a GroupOn. Boy, am I glad I signed up. The class was one of the most comprehensive and fun classes I've ever taken. Raven has years of experience bartending and has even trained bartenders who work at celebrity hosted events. She knows her drinks and not only works with you on the nuts and bolts of bartending, but teaches some really cool tricks like her rainbow shooter, her special margarita and her stoplight pour. After two weeks, I feel confident enough not only to bartend but to try out new drink recipes and drinks for my friends. The value of the class comes not only in the first rate instruction, but the fact that you can re-take the class whenever you want as a refresher for FREE. Plus, Raven has been awesome about staying in touch and I text her all the time when I have questions about drink recipes, work or techniques. But the reason why bartending at a class makes the most sense is that the practice is definitely necessary for you to be successful. Memorizing drink recipes online is no substitute for making the drinks over and over using real bottles and glasses. Without practice using the actual bottles would be like learning how to drive a car by watching YouTube videos and memorizing the rules of the road - it can't be done. The Altadena location is especially cool because Raven has put a ton of effort into making it feel like a real bar. The lights are dim, her bottle collection span pretty much every drink you can think of and the equipment is the standard stuff you'd see at any local place. I can't recommend taking this course here enough and would probably pay up to $800 to do so. I highly recommend it and would give this 10 stars if I could. read more