The important way to approach this class is to come well rested, leave your ego at the door, and to focus on making your movements automatic without overthinking. We may believe that we are aces at preparing a martini, sidecar, or Blue Hawaiian until put on the spot in front of a fast-moving class (or a barroom full of patrons and impatient servers, for that matter). Steve and his crew know how to get to the point to ensure you are armed with the essential knowledge and skills. I have worked in and around bars for most of my life, mostly as a server or bar back. I would occasionally take the bartending shifts no one wanted because of lack of confidence. I stayed away from bartending classes because of negative attitudes I would hear from some bartenders, both in person and online. They would dismiss the validity of a class that teaches people what the "smarter" bartenders achieved on their own by winging it. Having now been back in the game for a year, and seeing how the class has improved my job performance, I can assure you that those attitudes are false. The naysayers are typically those who have gotten by without true accountability and are fine staying where they are without the means to advance or increase their tips. Whether you want to get into bartending cold, or are simply looking to fill in the gaps in your training, Bartending Academy will help you get your mind in shape for that desired job interview or the mixology knowhow to freelance anywhere! read more

The Bartending Academy exceeded my expectations! I recently graduated from Bartending Academy and had THE best experience. The instructors were knowledgeable, engaging, and made this new experience incredibly enjoyable. I gained valuable skills and confidence behind the bar thanks to their expert guidance and real life experiences. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone looking to embark on a journey into the world of mixology! Thank you Steve and the two other amazing instructors!!!! I'll be back as much as I can for refresher courses read more

Bartending Academy - Just completed all the requirements!!! - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Whether you're an experienced bartender looking to elevate your skills or someone starting with minimal knowledge, this is the place for you. I came to this school with just a basic understanding of bartending, and now I can confidently say I have over 100 recipes memorized and am ready to pour, shake, and swirl with ease. These classes are incredibly fun, and Steve ensures the experience is engaging and full of memorable moments. Another fantastic aspect is the Title 4 Basic Liquor Law Training certificate along with The high-quality Bartensing Academy certificate you receive is something to be proud of--it's a testament to your hard work. I also appreciate the flexibility of the schedule; you can return anytime for practice and refresh your skills even after you graduate and at no extra cost. Overall, this program empowers you to grow as a bartender and refine your craft whenever you wish. I'm looking forward to the flairtending class in a couple of weeks! I'll post a review and let you know how it goes:). Thanks Steve and Michelle! read more

All of the trainers are so nice, but I mainly worked with Steve and it was never a dull moment! He definitely demands attention to make sure you're learning, but he makes you laugh in the process. I learned a lot of skills on how to become a successful bartender and entrepreneur & also met a ton of very nice people. Definitely will be coming back to renew when time & I recommend for anyone who wants to learn how to become a good quality bartender. read more

This place was recommended by a friend who loved it here at The Bartending Academy and highly recommended it. After some research I decided to sign up and I'm so glad that I did! I got great hands on training and the classes are very through and go over a lot of wonderful material for making all kinds of drinks. All the instructors are very informative and helpful. Steve is awesome and super helpful in answering any and all questions and makes the experience very enjoyable and fun. Dave is equally awesome and fun to take classes with. Lauren is also very cool and very helpful. You will learn so much about bartending that you will look at it completely differently. I found it to be truly an art. Your course curriculum has so many drinks that you'll be able to make, all your friends, family, and employers will be so impressed! I learned loads about wine, beer, highballs, cream drinks- including dessert drinks, shooters, martinis, margaritas, legal alcoholic levels, and lots more! I even took the Flairtending class which is offered once a month and now know how to flip around bottles the proper way! Unique skill to have. You can go in for open bar time and practice all your drinks so that you are prepared to make some amazing drinks. If you have any questions Steve is always around to help out and crack a few jokes. I highly recommend The Bartending Academy, put your time in, learn the drinks, and you will be a superstar mixologist when you graduate the course! read more

Steve was a very knowledgeable on multiple topics surrounding the bar life. The courses were intense and fast paced, preparing you for real life situations. From the first day you are placed behind the bar allowing you time to become comfortable in the environment. You are taught habits that you will take with you into the field, and he encourages you to know your bar! Overall, it was a great experience, and I would highly recommend to anyone interested in pursuing a bartending career or looking for more skills. read more

Such a good and processional program! Lots of hands of practice, history of drinks + movie and music references to certain drinks! The director Steve is the best instructor, very quick whitted, funny, and really wants you to succeed so he will give you criticism but only for your best interest! 10/10 recommend and free refresher classes that I will be taking periodically! read more

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I learned a lot here & that's why I would recommend it. everyone is very helpful, funny, and you can go back as much as you want to practice or need another class to refresh your memory, The only reason I wouldn't recommend is because the interviews I have been on the literally do not care about the title 4 certification, they don't care about the 200 drinks you learned. On some of the interviews I told them I know 200 drink orders and they say to me "that's it?" Hahaha. Im still trying to find a job a few weeks out of this course. Im sure I'll find something soon... just know it takes time! You wont get a job as soon as you're out of there. read more

Steve is an excellent instructor. If you want to learn how to be a great bartender and mix drinks properly, you need to attend this school. You will learn everything you need to know to be a super bartender and make money while having fun. Here a few Tall Drinks from my class today. read more

Bartending Academy - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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My experience at the bartending academy was incredible!! It was so much fun, very informative, all hands on training and very organized. My instructor Steve was the best teacher you could want going into this industry. He taught us so much about all the different alcohols and methods of making drinks, and really showed us what it takes to be a GOOD bartender. Steve is so outgoing and fun, there is never a dull moment at the bartending academy! He makes you feel comfortable in a judge free environment but also holds you accountable to be a proper bartender. I really couldn't have asked for a better teacher. Thank you so much Steve, you are the man!! We appreciate everything you do for us aspiring mixologists! If you want to become a bartender, the Bartending Academy in Tempe is the place you need to go!! read more

Bartending Academy - Tasty drinks! - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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I highly recommend The Bartending Academy to anyone wanting to learn how to bartend the right way. Steve is a great instructor, knowledgeable and genuinely wants his students to do well. He creates an atmosphere that fully prepares you for a career in bartending while making it fun. read more

Bartending Academy - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Amazing , amazing atmosphere. I was looking for a career change and I came across Steve and the Bartending Academy . The course material and the training was top notch . Steve and his teachers ,Dave and Lauren provide a fun and stress free environment to learn a new skill . Of you are looking for a new career or even just a part time job or even just to impress your friends at parties , you will not go wrong with Steve and the Bartending Academy . I highly , highly recommend the Bartending Academy it's a decision you will not regret . read more

I just started attending last week and I'm absolutely loving it! It's all hands on and so much fun! Steve has been my teacher for every class so far and he really knows his stuff! I'm very happy I chose this school over all the others. I'm also confident that I'll be able to find a job after completing everything and very happy that I'll always have this school to help me whenever needed! It really does feel like a little family! read more

Bartending Academy - Practicing "spoon floated" shooters! With zero alcohol. Amazing! - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Very informative with helpful teachers. Just a great place to be and learn new skills.

My lady and I decided to get into bartending as a hobby in between running our businesses. We found The Bartending Academy and decided to give them a call! We spoke with an instructor named Steve, with whom we've had the pleasure of keeping in touch with since taking the course and passing the examination. For anybody interested in taking the course, please take it SERIOUSLY! Represent yourself and the school accordingly! read more

I cannot say enough good things about this school. for the price you pay the school is 10x the value not only can you retake the classes, but you can just come in and practice on Mondays and Fridays. The instructors are amazing, and Steve is the best. He is so full of knowledge and advice and isn't afraid to share. Steve makes classes enjoyable, and I looked forward to each one. read more

I'm late writing this but this bartending school definitely deserves a 5 star review. Last year around March, I was looking for a bartending school. I came across Bartending Academy and another school but I was torn between which school I wanted to attend. Both schools had awesome reviews and a great rating. Ultimately, I ended up going with Bartending Academy and I'm glad I did. The enrollment process was super smooth and I was able to start within the next few days. The owner Steve is amazing and has one of the coolest NYC accents I have ever heard lol. The classes were taught by Steve, Lala and another instructor. The course was very hands on and you truly learn a lot about bartending. This is also a great way for you to meet new people. The experience is definitely worth the price ! read more

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The Bartending Academy has changed my life for the better. I left the corporate world to pursue a trade that brought positive/healthy stress into my life versus the non stop unhealthy stress that took over me while working in the corporate world. All of the struggles, sadness, anxiety, etc I was able to leave at the door. Walking through the Bartending Academy doors brought me back to life. I met incredible people from all walks of the Earth pursuing their passion of people and simplicity in life. The environment is safe and sanitary. There is no alcohol on the premises and all drinks and mixes are made in house to match colors and textures of real alcohol... this is genius work and truly helps students grasp what their drinks look like and SHOULD look like. Additionally, Steve, the Director, brings a positive flare to the classes. He is thoughtful, inclusive, kind, and generous. He wants all of his students to succeed, so he creates an environment where students are not called out or embarrassed when making a mistake. Instead he sees them as opportunities for growth and learning. The environment alone will make you want to just complete the course! I am grateful to have found such an incredible bartending school that has taught me to be a responsible and profitable bartender. Steve, thanks for being there for me and supporting my transition into this line of work. You are an incredible human. I have already recommended this school to my friends and family, if you're reading this - JUST DO IT! read more

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I can't emphasize enough how much of a rewarding investment this place is. Steve is a really funny guy he provides every tool necessary to get you ahead of the competition and more importantly to make you the best bartender you can be. The class is really short and the schedules are very flexible so anyone can give it a shot even with a full schedule. If you feel down on your luck or need a new profession come and check it out you won't regret it! read more

Bartending Academy - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

I wish I could give this place zero stars. Steve is not an honest man. I met with him about the course and then life happened and I was not able to attend. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY BOOKS, ANY KIND OF MATERIALS, and NO INSTRUCTION. I told him I would not be able to attend and he turned my name over to collections for $420. FOR WHAT. He did nothing for me, other than the first meeting I had never stepped foot in this building again. He is a scammer and a rotten person. Go to ABC. Stay away from this place. read more

One of the best choices I've made! Staff and students are super friendly and awesome to be around. I was applying for jobs before attending the Academy and was having a very rough time, but after having the Academy help with my resume, I was immediately taken more seriously by potential employers. To be honest, I didn't think this would be the case. I thought I could learn it all online and in my kitchen. While this may be true, there was SOOO much that I learned here that I would have probably never even knew I needed to learn if I went about it on my own. Would highly recommend, wish they were a bit closer to me and I'd come in for the open bar practice once a week. How much you get out of this is on you though, don't forget that! If you sit in class quietly and don't reach out to the teachers and other students, you're going to walk away with much less than I got out of it. Be outgoing, that's part of being a bartender, practice those skills at the school if you're shy before you have to apply them in the real world. This goes for getting a job also. Do what Steve tells you when you graduate and if you put in the effort in the way he explains, you WILL get a job. You might not start at a super crazy nightclub, but you'll get offers from other establishments who will help you learn the ropes and get some real experience on that resume for when you want to move onto the super busy clubs. Best of luck to all future students and a big THANK YOU to the staff there at the Academy! read more

And Bartending School has paid off... Brackin's Bar (my favorite bar in old-town) just hired me to train for bartender on Tuesday nights (starting tonight) -- so, come on down! (and that means you too Gabi) Some people like to knit, bowl, or collect stamps for a hobby, I am bartending... Dreams do come true :) http://www.yelp.com/biz/brackins-bar-scottsdale read more

One of the best choices I made is to come here. Steve is the best he's always keeping you laughing and makes the classes fun. I'm always looking forward coming back to the next class. It's very easy to learn and it's not like a typical class course that I was expecting. I recommend anyone to come here! read more

I took this bartending course with no prior experience at all. My knowledge of mixing drinks was limited to occasionally watching bartenders fill people's orders at my local dive bar. I liked how the types of drinks were broken down into different classes on different days. I took total advantage of being able to pick the days I attended class. I have a full-time job so it would have been difficult for me to complete all of the classes in one week or even two, adulting sucks! There is a lot to learn but you are given as much time as you need to practice until you are comfortable with the drinks before you are tested. I got my certification but I still go in during the open bar times on Fridays to continue practicing. The cost of the course seems reasonable to me and I am currently signed up to take the flare course which looks like a lot of fun. The instructors are awesome and Steve is a really nice guy. I have seen a couple reviews calling him pushy but he is a businessman and just wants to get his sales pitches out and he talks fast. That does not seem pushy to me that seems like him trying to make a living. I am a grumpy old man and the only complaint I have is I wish there was an open bar time for practicing on Saturdays too. read more

My daughter and I emailed inquiring about private bar tending lessons during COVID-19 times. The manager Steve got right back to us, quickly sent information, answered all of our questions, and accommodated our needs. We were given super useful books and he teaches in a hands-on, supportive, and fun manner. We learn so much during class and spend the whole time practicing mixing and pouring. On top of the learning, we have a great time. Steve is funny and knowledgeable--super great guy. Great school. read more

I had a great time at the bartending academy! I signed up hoping to find a job and with Steve's help I was able to find one within a week of finishing the course, definitely a great investment :) read more

I absolutely loved attending this academy. Steve is a super cool guy, he makes sure the learning process is helpful and fun. They really prepare you for what is expected. I got hired as a bartender the day I passed my exam just by listening to Steve's interview and job advice. read more

300 dollars down the drain to deal with an incompetent 60 year old man. Not only was it just a bad experience I also caught ringworm from this place. I went for 3 days. I developed ring worm on my arm and neck. It smells like sewer when you refill any bottles and the water in the sinks look so foggy as if it's been sitting there for years. Steve claims that it's a "flexible schedule" and it's truly not. When you have a job and maybe kids an alternating schedule does not work. But of course since it works for Steve he doesn't care, he just wants your money. Do yourself a favor and go so somewhere else. I felt very uncomfortable in the environment and I wasn't the only one. I didn't stand for it and I still won't. I did not finish the bartending class it was unbearable. read more

If you want to become a good bartender this is the place to go. It's not easy and it's a lot of learning. But the instructors take pride in what they do how they do it and why they do it. You will get an excellent foundation for becoming a great bartender. Highly recommended. read more

The instructors are absolutely amazing, they are very knowledgeable and welcoming! At least half of every class is hands on, practicing making the drinks you are learning about. I couldn't have asked for a better place to help me get my bartending career started! read more

They taught a multitude of drinks and gave me the ability to land jobs and gigs as well as feel more confident in my technique and drink knowledge read more

I will not lie that I was hesitant in joining up. I am a pilot in training and I was looking for something simple to bring in residual income - bar-tending seemed like the way to go TIPS! Regardless I gave it a go. Steve the owner/operator is a funny dude. Now they train you on how to make 150 drinks, I can honestly say I don't remember 150 drinks, however, what the class does for you is give you a fundamental understanding and crash course if you will in bar-tending. Understanding the alcohol counts, why garnishes are necessary and word associations to go along with it. Its a wide variety of different ideas all the way to the resort level type "fancy/tropical" drinks, to the very nice restaurant "after dinner" type drinks all the way down to the dive bar type drinks. With all this said, I ended up getting a job within 3 days of finishing (MUCH to my surprise). All I asked was for a chance and the sales pitch for me was, "hey, I took this bartending class and I am asking for a chance". It worked out and I interviewed well and I ended up getting a job as a Bartender at a bar at a new location. One last thing to add - my very first night bartending was a 10 hour shift lol. Talk about sink or swim, other than the first 4 hours of, this is how you work this machine and this is our process... the bartender left and i had an entire bar to work with! Mind you, other than knowing some drinks cause of being the bar rat I've been throughout the years, I had to hustle and bustle and grind. Sure there were some drinks that I didn't remember, but all in all, I would grade my performance that evening as a B+ and thats because of the Bartending Academy school. They give you the tools to succeed from the fundamentals... sooo... thank you Steve and Bartending Academy to get me running and have money come in my pocket. read more

I attended The Bartending Academy, and worked at a pace that I was comfortable with. The course is 2 weeks long, but you can take longer if you need to. Steve worked with me and I was able to finish on my own time, and completed the course without much stress or worry. I was employed within a week because of the training I received here. I HIGHLY recommend this school to anyone interested in bartending! read more

If you're on the fence still about signing up for the Bartending Academy, DO IT! I LOVE this place, I mean I'm writing my first ever Yelp review just to rave about it. I've always been a terrible student, but the instructors (shout out to LaLa!!) are so patient, friendly, and just fantastic teachers. They want you to succeed, and work with you to make sure you get there. You don't just learn how to make drinks here, you learn how to BARTEND here. They prepare you for all kinds of work environments and are extremely knowledgeable in all things alcohol and customer service. They really do everything they can to prepare you and make sure you're ready for work out in the real world. Thank you guys for all of your help! read more

Bartending Academy - Bartending Schools Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

The Bartending Academy is hands down the best place to learn how to become a bartender. They teach you the right way, not the easy way. Took only a couple months to pass but Steve and all the teachers made sure that you won't fail. A great place to change your life! read more

Definitely the best choice if you're considering bartending! Steve is amazing & really fun to work with. The classes are super informative & helpful. Join, its always a great time! read more

Great experience at the Bartending Academy. As an out-of-state student, I had a crazy schedule which they were able to work with. I really enjoyed coming in after classes and learning drinks with Larissa. I ended up completing the class, getting my state certification/license, and Steve is also helping me get my résumé in top notch shape for potential employers. Thank you once again! read more

Just a note, Cher is reviewing a DIFFERENT bartending Academy, this is NOT ABC. Anyway, decent experience here. Steve is somewhat of a pushy salesmen. He pretends not to be, but he will try, and will try hard to sell you, if you show ANY interest at all. My experience is this: I did the one week, two classes a day course to try and get through it as fast as possible. Even if you do this, don't expect to pass, it's far too much material, over 150 drinks need to be memorized. The teachers are very friendly, willing to teach and answer your questions, this is nice. One thing I will say is that before you graduate, Steve gives you the impression that he will set you up with interviews galore and the opportunities are very huge. This is not the case at all. After I finished the tests and passed, I had to borderline harass Steve for my certification. (it took about two weeks) Finally when I went to pick it up, it was very brief, Steve said his quick congratulations and sent me on my way... so where is the help in finding a position? I went into this pretty much knowing that they would not do much in helping you find a job, do not expect that. However you will gain the confidence and actual skill to bartend, and if you have other experience you shouldn't have that much trouble finding a bartending job. However what I can say is DO NOT TAKE THIS WITHOUT EXPERIENCE!! This course does not automatically guarantee you a position, in fact, most bars don't care about the certification; however coupled with experience and the confidence of knowing your drinks you should be alright. Just do not let Steve use his bluster to trick you into thinking all you need to do is take the course and get the certification. Not only that do not expect the school to do anything to place you. read more

This school is by far the best in all of Arizona. Spur of the moment and jobless I called and signed up over the phone. I started the program less than 4 days after. I was traveling to attend, so I wanted to finish as quickly as possible. I completed the classes within one week, and tested out (became licensed and certified) the following Tuesday. As soon as I graduated, I was already set up with a private party that the school had set up for me. A week after graduating I got a job at one of the biggest resorts in my town as their bartender. Now I work full-time bar tending there, and was very confident going in because I had all hands on education/knowledge of so many mixed drinks from the school. HUGE thank you to Steve (your'e the best), Michal, and Laurissa for teaching me more than I expected. All of these people kept me smiling the entire time I was there. GREAT INVESTMENT IN TIME AND MONEY. XOX, MJ read more

I am very glad I made the decision to go to the Bartending Academy. Steve is amazing and helped me every step of the way from start to finish. They give you the tools you need to set you up for success in the world of Bartending. Would recommend to anyone looking to learn this new skill. read more