Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, has a vibrant nightlife scene, making it an excellent place to become a skilled bartender. With countless bars, clubs, and restaurants, opportunities abound for those looking to shake, stir, and pour their way into a rewarding bartending career.
Key Takeaways:
- Bartending schools are vital: They provide the theoretical knowledge and practical training necessary for a successful bartending career.
- Cocktail classes offer in-depth knowledge: These classes can provide a deeper understanding of cocktail creation, including unique flavour combinations and presentation techniques.
- Las Vegas offers several excellent bartending schools: ABC Bartending School, ACE Bartending Academy, and Las Vegas National Bartenders School are among the top options.
- Bartending can be a rewarding career: With the right training and a passion for the craft, you can become part of Las Vegas’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy a lucrative career.
Top Bartending Schools in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has several reputable bartending schools offering comprehensive training programs. Here are four we found that have good reviews.
Ace Bartending School
Ace Bartending School, located at 4079 N Rancho Dr #170, Las Vegas NV 89130, has been a premier institution in the city since 2007. They offer day and night classes, which can get you certified as a bartender in 2 weeks. The school claims to offer a real-world environment for learning as their classroom is a real working bar. The course covers not only drink recipes but also delves into the history and production of alcohol, local and state alcohol serving laws, health and safety regulations, and keeping a bar in compliance with health codes. The school also offers a job placement program with local employers recruiting from the school.
Website: https://acebartending.com/
ABC Bartending School
ABC Bartending School, situated at 6985 W Sahara Ave. Suite 109, Las Vegas, NV 89117, offers several convenient class schedules over one week, two weeks, or weekends. They have trained thousands of students in the last 20 years and offer lifetime job placement assistance. The school features eight bartending wells for training and covers topics such as setup/changing shifts/closing out, customer service, bar equipment, and bar terms.
Websites: https://www.abcbartending.com/bartending-school-las-vegas.php
Crescent School of Gaming and Bartending
Crescent School of Gaming and Bartending has two locations in Las Vegas – 4180 S. Sandhill Road, Suite B-8, Las Vegas, NV 89121 and 3275 S. Jones Blvd., Suite 101, Las Vegas, NV 89146. They offer a 3-week bartending course focused on mixing drinks quickly and properly. Additionally, they offer a unique 12-week Beverage Management course designed for those aiming to become a Head Bartender or Beverage Manager or for those planning to open their own establishment. The school offers day or night classes and provides lifetime job placement assistance.
Website: https://crescent.edu/
Las Vegas National Bartenders School
Las Vegas National Bartenders School is part of the National Bartenders Bartending Schools that began in 1984 and has since been training high-quality bartenders across Southern California & New York. The school is known for its focus on mixology, staying at the forefront of the evolving cocktail scene.
Website: https://www.nationalbartenders.com/las-vegas-bartending-school/
Cocktails Classes
As well as a fun team-building event, cocktail classes can introduce you to new drinks you haven’t tried before. Here are some popular cocktail classes you can try next time you’re in Vegas.
Mixology Classes Las Vegas
Mixology Classes Las Vegas offers a range of cocktail-making courses hosted by top mixologists at various trendy venues on the Las Vegas Strip. These fun and interactive classes are ideal for team-building events, bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and individuals looking to learn cocktail-making.
There are several options available:
- Standard Mixology Classes: These classes, priced at $100 per person, are held at bars on the Strip. Participants will learn to make popular cocktails such as the Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, Mojito, and Champagne Cocktails. The minimum group size is 5 per class.
- Couples Classes: Priced at $295, these classes provide a unique date night experience where couples learn to make a variety of cocktails in a relaxed environment. Two options are available for class length: a Standard 90-minute class and a Premium 2.5-hour class.
- Mobile Classes: For $120 per person, Mixology Classes LV offers fully-interactive cocktail-making activities at your location. This service covers Las Vegas and some areas within the state of Nevada. The minimum group size is 5 for Las Vegas and 15 for classes outside town.
Each class provides a personal demonstration from expert mixologists before participants make their own cocktails. Non-drinkers are also accommodated with non-alcoholic versions of the cocktails from the class menu.
Website: https://mixologyclasseslv.com/
Mixology Classes USA
Mixology Classes Las Vegas offers fun and engaging cocktail-making classes, perfect for corporate events, couples’ activities, and bachelorette parties. Participants can learn the art of mixology from expert bartenders and shake their drinks professionally.
Classes can be hosted at any one of 12 cocktail bars in Las Vegas, providing various options for participants. These classes cater to groups ranging from 5 to 200 individuals, making them a versatile choice for events of all sizes.
The course includes instruction on making 2 or 3 different cocktails, where participants are guided through each step, learning how to mix, muddle, and shake their drinks to perfection. The course duration can be either a standard 90-minute class or a premium class which includes a 3 cocktails workshop, light appetizers, and an open bar for an additional 90 minutes.
Additionally, mobile classes are offered where the bar setup is brought directly to a chosen location, offering flexibility and convenience for private parties or team-building events.
For inquiries and bookings, Mixology Classes Las Vegas can be contacted at the toll-free number 888 687 1829 or via email at info@mixologyclassesus.com.
Website: https://www.mixologyclassesus.com/
MGM Mixology Program
The MGM Mixology Program, titled “Mixology from the Masters,” offers an immersive learning experience where guests can delve into the history of cocktails and master the art of crafting the perfect drink. Experienced mixologists run the program, and participants receive a complimentary recipe book and a Woodford Reserve Wood Barrel souvenir for mixing their own whiskey creations.
The mixology classes are held at the Lobby Bar, located on the second floor next to the Hotel Lobby. They are available Monday through Thursday, from 1 PM to 3 PM.
Pricing for the program varies based on the number of guests, as follows:
- One guest: $95
- Two guests: $160
- Five guests: $400
These prices do not include tax or gratuity. To register for the course, interested participants can email mixology@mgmnationalharbor.com.
Website: https://mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com/en/restaurants/mixology-program.html
How to Become a Bartender in Las Vegas
Starting a bartending career in Las Vegas involves several steps, including getting proper training, obtaining a ‘pour card,’ and securing a job in the industry.
We’ve got a full article on what you need to become a bartender in Nevada.
Importance of Bartending Schools
Bartending schools play a crucial role in equipping aspiring bartenders with the necessary skills and certifications to excel in this industry. These schools offer a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training, preparing students for the dynamic environment of a busy Las Vegas bar.
Benefits of Cocktail Classes
Apart from bartending schools, cocktail classes can also provide a more focused approach to learning the art of mixing drinks. These classes usually delve deeper into the nuances of cocktail creation, teaching students about unique flavour combinations, presentation techniques, and the history of various cocktails.
How Long is Bartending School in Las Vegas
The duration of bartending school in Las Vegas can vary depending on the program, but most courses are designed to be completed in a few weeks. This quick turnaround allows you to gain the necessary skills and start your bartending journey relatively quickly.
How to Get a Pour Card in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, bartenders must have a ‘pour card,’ also known as Navada’s Alcohol Awareness Card, as proof of having completed alcohol awareness training. This training ensures bartenders understand the legal responsibilities and safety concerns associated with serving alcohol.
For more information, see this article on Nevada Bartending License Requirements.
How Much Do Bartenders Make in Vegas?
According to websites like Indeed.com, the average salary is $11.89 per hour, or around $178 per day (with tips) on average. Glassdoor puts the average base salary at $37,617 (plus around $6,256 in tips/bonuses).
The earnings of bartenders in Las Vegas can fluctuate significantly, depending on the establishment’s location, tips, and the bartender’s experience and skills. However, with the right training and a commitment to the craft, bartending can be a lucrative career path in this bustling city.
Embarking on Your Bartending Journey
Becoming a bartender in Las Vegas is not just about mixing drinks; it’s about creating an experience for patrons and knowing how to serve responsibly. With the right training and passion, you can be part of the city’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy a rewarding career.
Bartending Schools in Las Vegas FAQ
Here are some questions people often ask about bartending in Las Vegas and Nevada.
Do I need to attend a bartending school to become a bartender in Las Vegas?
A bartending school can provide valuable skills, knowledge, and certifications that make you stand out to potential employers.
What is a ‘pour card’, and do I need one?
In Nevada, anyone who wishes to sell or serve alcoholic beverages must be training-certified, and this certification is often referred to as a ‘pour card’ or an Alcohol Awareness Training Card (ACT card).
What is the minimum age to become a bartender in Las Vegas?
As in most counties in Nevada, the minimum age to serve alcoholic beverages in Los Vegas is 21.
What other skills or requirements help you become a bartender?
Apart from bartending skills and knowledge, good communication skills, the ability to stand for long periods, and familiarity with basic drink recipes can be beneficial. It may also be helpful to have a driver’s license or passport.
