Top Bartending Schools in Atlanta

Top Bartending Schools in Atlanta: Key Takeaways

• Atlanta boasts several top bartending schools offering flexible schedules and comprehensive mixology training.
• Programs range from one-week accelerated courses to 50-hour professional certifications, focusing on practical skills and job placement assistance.
• Schools provide certifications covering responsible alcohol service, cocktail preparation, customer service, and industry knowledge.

Atlanta offers aspiring bartenders quality training opportunities with diverse programs that prepare students for successful careers behind the bar.

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This guide highlights the leading bartending schools in Atlanta and what each program delivers to students.

1. Overview of Top Bartending Schools in Atlanta

Atlanta’s bartending schools combine hands-on training with industry knowledge to equip students for the dynamic bar and hospitality scene. Whether you want a quick certification or in-depth mixology expertise, these schools have options.

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Professional Bartending School of Atlanta

Established in 1978, this school offers a 50-hour comprehensive mixology course. Its flexible schedules—including morning, afternoon, evening, weekend, and accelerated one-week classes—allow students to learn at their own pace.

The curriculum teaches preparation of over 125 traditional and trending cocktails, product knowledge, beer and wine education, and responsible service training. Graduates receive three certifications included in the tuition.

With decades of industry connections, the school provides strong job placement assistance to graduates entering the Atlanta bartending market.

ABC Bartending School

ABC Bartending School serves the Atlanta area through campuses in Marietta and Duluth. Its 40-hour hands-on training program offers one-week accelerated, two-week day, two-and-a-half-week night, and weekend classes.

The curriculum covers bar setup, customer service, equipment usage, mixing techniques, liquor knowledge, beer and wine training, cash handling, and even job interview preparation. This broad focus helps graduates become well-rounded bartenders ready for various work environments.

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ABC Bartending’s nationwide job placement program actively places graduates in clubs, restaurants, and catering events.

Action Bartending School

Action Bartending School’s one-week certification emphasizes hands-on training in real bar settings. This practical approach ensures students gain real-world experience in cocktails, wine, customer service, and advanced bartending techniques.

This school is ideal for those who want fast yet thorough preparation, combining classroom instruction with on-the-job simulations.

Georgia Bartending School

The Georgia Bartending School focuses on the fundamentals of bartending and mixology. Training includes liquors, beers, wines, popular drinks, state laws, bar equipment, garnishing, glassware, free pouring, and bar setup and breakdown.

Students receive hands-on training behind a fully equipped bar, enhancing practical skills. The school supports graduates seeking full-time, part-time, or private event bartending roles with job placement assistance.

Brooklyn Bartending School (BBS) - Atlanta

BBS offers one-week and two-week courses geared toward skill-building in alcohol responsibility, bar operations, cleanliness, customer service, equipment use, drink preparation, beer and wine knowledge, cash handling, and job interview skills.

A key strength is its comprehensive job assistance and internship programs that help graduates secure positions in Atlanta’s hospitality industry.

2. Why Attend a Bartending School in Atlanta?

Attending a bartending school in Atlanta is an excellent way to jumpstart a career in the hospitality industry. These schools provide:

• Professional certification: Credentials that demonstrate expertise and commitment to employers.
• Hands-on experience: Practical skills learned through real bar setups and simulations.
• Industry connections: Access to job placement services and networking opportunities.
• Comprehensive knowledge: Training in drink preparation, alcohol laws, and customer service standards.

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3. How To Choose the Right Bartending School in Atlanta

When selecting a bartending school, consider the following factors:

• Program length and schedule flexibility: Choose a program that fits your availability, whether full-time, part-time, or accelerated.
• Curriculum scope: Look for schools that cover both mixology and responsible alcohol service.
• Certification offered: Ensure the program includes certifications recognized in Georgia’s hospitality industry.
• Job placement assistance: Schools with active connections can help you find employment more easily after graduation.
• Hands-on training environment: Realistic bar setups enhance learning and confidence.

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4. Certifications and Responsible Service Training in Atlanta Bartending Schools

Most top Atlanta bartending schools include or recommend certifications that emphasize responsible alcohol service. These include:

• ServSafe Alcohol Certification: Focuses on preventing intoxication, underage drinking, and liability issues.
• TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures): Teaches intervention strategies to reduce alcohol-related risks.

Completing such certifications not only meets local legal requirements but also enhances employability in Atlanta’s competitive market.

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5. Career Opportunities After Completing Bartending School In Atlanta

Graduates from these schools can pursue jobs in various hospitality environments including:

• Bars and nightclubs
• Restaurants
• Hotels and resorts
• Catering and event bartending
• Private clubs and lounges

With the city's vibrant social scene, skilled bartenders with certifications and hands-on experience are in steady demand.

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6. Benefits of Bartending School Job Placement Assistance in Atlanta

Several schools actively assist graduates with job placement, offering benefits such as:

• Exclusive access to employer networks and bartending gigs.
• Resume and interview preparation tailored to hospitality roles.
• Internship and apprenticeship opportunities for practical exposure.
• Improved chances of entering the bartending field quickly.

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7. Additional Resources for Atlanta Bartenders

For responsible service certification and regulatory information, aspiring bartenders and establishments in Atlanta can consult:

• Georgia Department of Revenue, Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Division – for state regulatory compliance and licensing.
• ServSafe Alcohol Certification – official responsible alcohol service training and certification.
• TIPS Certification – training programs focused on intervention and responsible alcohol service.

Top Bartending Schools in Atlanta: Conclusion

Atlanta offers a variety of reputable bartending schools tailored to different needs and schedules. From comprehensive mixology courses to hands-on bar experience and job placement programs, these institutions prepare students well for bartending careers.

Choosing the right school depends on your learning style, time constraints, and career goals. Whichever institution you select, the combination of quality training and certifications will equip you for success in Atlanta’s thriving hospitality industry.

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