In this article we’ll talk about what Bartenders and Baristas do and what are the skill requirements for both roles.
What Is a Bartender?
Bartenders serve alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks in restaurants, bars or nightclubs. In most states, serving alcohol requires having a certificate. To get such a certificate, you need to be of legal drinking age. Bartenders either serve drinks to customers directly or prepare drinks according to what customers tell the Servers.
What Is a Barista?
A Barista is a hospitality professional who works in a coffee shop. Baristas serve coffee and other beverages behind the counter. Unlike Bartenders, Baristas only need to be of legal working age as they only serve non-alcoholic beverages. In some coffee shops, Baristas work directly with customers, while in others, they prepare orders that the Servers have relayed to them.
Bartender and Barista Difference In Responsibilities
While the main responsibilities of Bartenders and Baristas are the same, there are quite a few differences in their overall duties. Let’s highlight the key responsibilities of each position.
Key Responsibilities of a Bartender
As already mentioned, Bartenders prepare and serve alcoholic drinks at restaurants and bars. That said, they need to be comfortable with talking to many different people and handling payment transactions. Moreover, they should be able to work on their feet for many hours.
Bartenders must know how to serve alcohol responsibly and how to deal with uncomfortable situations when these (eventually) arise. Additionally, they have to know how to check and verify IDs so they don’t serve alcohol to underage customers.
Besides these, Bartenders are responsible for keeping the bar clean and well-stocked.
Key Responsibilities of a Barista
Baristas serve coffee for the most part. As such, they need to be knowledgeable about the different coffee types available in their establishment. Just like Bartenders, Baristas who work the counter need to be comfortable interacting with people throughout their entire shift.
They need to provide excellent customer service, which often helps them earn tips. They must also know how to handle cash and use point-of-sale systems.
A Barista should also take care of the coffee-making equipment. Espresso machines, for instance, need to be thoroughly cleaned before and after every brew to ensure every coffee is perfectly fresh.
Work Environment and Schedule
The work environments and schedules of Bartenders and Baristas differ significantly:
- Bartenders: Typically work in bars, restaurants, or nightclubs, primarily during evenings and late nights. Their schedules often include weekends and holidays, catering to patrons seeking leisure and entertainment.
- Baristas: Usually employed in coffee shops or cafes, with shifts starting early in the morning to accommodate customers seeking their daily caffeine fix. Their work hours are more aligned with daytime schedules, often concluding in the early evening.
Key Skills Required for Each Role
As with almost any role in the service industry, Bartenders and Baristas need to have practical and interpersonal skills.
Skills a Bartender Should Have
A good Bartender should have knowledge of alcohol. They need to know which alcohols and juices mix well to craft cocktails. A great Bartender will also garnish cocktails to make them more presentable.
Organizational and multitasking skills are also a must. These skills allow Bartenders to work efficiently in fast-paced environments, accomplish multiple orders and manage bar inventory.
We talk about some of the other hard and soft skills for Bartenders here.
Skills a Barista Should Have
Baristas should be familiar with the different types of coffee and how it’s brewed. They need to know how to operate various equipment used in the coffee brewing process, such as an espresso machine, coffee grinders and specialty coffee brewers.
In some establishments where Baristas are also responsible for food preparation, they should know how to operate basic baking machinery as well.
One of the most difficult to learn — yet valuable — Barista skills is making latte art. The reason why it’s difficult is because it takes a lot of practice, timing, focus and skill. Once you master latte art, however, you’ll likely get more tips from impressed customers.
Training and Certification Requirements
The training and certification requirements for Bartenders and Baristas vary:
- Bartenders: In many regions, Bartenders are required to obtain certifications such as a bartending license or alcohol server permit, which involve training in responsible alcohol service and local liquor laws.
- Baristas: While formal certifications are not typically mandatory, many employers prefer candidates with Barista training or experience. Various coffee organizations offer certifications that can enhance a Barista’s credentials.
Salary and Earning Potential
Earnings for Bartenders and Baristas can vary based on location, experience, and type of establishment:
- Bartenders: Typically earn an hourly wage plus tips, with total earnings significantly influenced by customer tipping habits. High-end bars and busy nightlife venues often provide higher tip potential.
- Baristas: Usually earn an hourly wage, and while some receive tips, they are generally lower than those of Bartenders. However, Baristas working in specialty coffee shops or major chains may receive steady wages with additional benefits like health insurance and paid time off.
Bartender vs. Barista: Conclusion
To summarize, Bartenders are typically employed in establishments that focus on serving alcoholic drinks. They need to be of legal age and in some states, of legal drinking age.
Baristas, on the other hand, work in establishments that focus on serving coffee and non-alcoholic drinks. As such, they only need to be of legal employment age.
When it comes to working as a Barista, it would also help if you’re a morning person. They generally start working early in the day because that’s when coffee shops often get the most customers.
On the other hand, if you’re more of a night owl, then working as a Bartender may be more suitable for you.
Bartender vs Barista FAQs
It depends on your lifestyle, personality, and career goals. If you prefer a fast-paced nightlife setting, enjoy making cocktails, and thrive in social environments, bartending might be the better fit. If you love coffee, prefer early shifts, and enjoy a steady customer flow, being a Barista could be the right choice.
Bartenders usually have a higher earning potential due to tips, especially in busy bars or high-end venues. The base hourly wage for bartenders may be lower than a Barista’s, but tips often make up for it, sometimes doubling or tripling earnings. Baristas, on the other hand, typically earn a stable hourly wage, with occasional tips that are usually lower than those of bartenders.
Both jobs can be challenging but in different ways. Bartending is physically demanding, requiring late-night shifts, fast-paced service, and dealing with intoxicated customers. Baristas work early shifts and need precision in coffee-making techniques, customer service, and speed during morning rush hours. The difficulty level depends on personal preferences and adaptability.
No formal experience is required for either role, but having prior customer service experience helps. Many Bartenders start as Barbacks, learning on the job before transitioning to a full bartending role. Some states require bartending licenses. Baristas can also be trained on the job, though knowledge of coffee brewing techniques and latte art can be an advantage.
Both fields offer growth opportunities. Bartenders can advance to Head Bartender, Bar Manager, or even open their own bar. Some transition into mixology, beverage consulting, or hospitality management. Baristas can progress to Lead Barista, Café Manager, or even become Coffee Roasters or Trainers. Those passionate about coffee can pursue a long-term career in specialty coffee.
Written by Mitko Terziev
With over eight years of experience in the field, Mitko is a seasoned content specialist who has penned thousands of articles covering a wide array of topics. Before writing, he spent a few months working as a Bartender in one of the best bars in his hometown. In his free time, Mitko enjoys immersing himself in the worlds of gaming and nature.
Reviewed by Marcy Miniano
Marcy is an editor and writer with a background in public relations and brand marketing. Throughout her nearly decade-long career, she has honed her skills in crafting content and helping build brands across various industries — including restaurant and hospitality, travel, tech, fashion and entertainment.
