Top Bartending Schools in St. Louis

Top Bartending Schools in St. Louis: Key Takeaways

St. Louis offers a variety of bartending schools with flexible in-person and online learning options.
Programs cover comprehensive skills from basic mixology to bar management and responsible alcohol service.
Schools emphasize hands-on training, local cocktail knowledge, and customer service to prepare students for St. Louis hospitality roles.

St. Louis is a thriving hub for hospitality, making it a great place to learn bartending. This article highlights the top bartending schools in the city that equip students with valuable skills for the industry.

Whether you prefer hands-on or online learning, these schools offer diverse programs designed to launch your bartending career effectively.

1. Overview of Top Bartending Schools in St. Louis

St. Louis hosts several reputable bartending schools that provide comprehensive training in bartending techniques, cocktail crafting, and alcohol service regulations. Below are some of the best-known schools.

Missouri Bartending School, St. Louis

This local school provides well-rounded training, emphasizing practical skills and knowledge of the St. Louis bar scene. Students learn to craft classic St. Louis cocktails, understand local breweries, master event bartending, and deliver excellent customer service.

Missouri Bartending School is known for its flexible scheduling and hands-on instruction, ideal for beginners and those seeking to upgrade skills.

Employers looking to hire a bartender who excels at customer interaction may find graduates from this school particularly appealing.

Brooklyn Bartending School, St. Louis

Brooklyn Bartending School offers tailored training focused on over 200 drink recipes, bar equipment familiarity, and techniques for responsible alcohol service.

The school presents both in-person and online classes, making it accessible to students with varying schedules and learning preferences.

Local Bartending School, St. Louis Area

Local Bartending School covers critical skills across a week-long intensive course, including efficient drink preparation, garnish techniques, bar setup, and maximizing tips.

They provide all equipment and materials, with options for in-person lessons at multiple locations, supporting hands-on learning.

ABC Mixology Online Bartending Course

For students seeking a fully remote option, ABC Mixology offers an online bartending course available to Missouri residents, including St. Louis.

The course features step-by-step video guides, Missouri-inspired cocktail recipes, and a certification upon completion. It enables students to study at their own pace.

With A Twist Bartending School, St. Louis

This school provides a blend of online and in-person training covering mixology certification, alcohol management, and basic bar management.

With A Twist emphasizes hands-on experience and flexible scheduling to support students pursuing careers in the hospitality sector.

2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bartending School in St. Louis

Picking the right bartending school depends on your learning preferences, career goals, and logistics.

Course Content and Scope

Look for programs that offer a broad curriculum including:

Classic and local cocktail recipes
Bar equipment handling
Customer service techniques
Alcohol safety and responsible serving
Bar management and event bartending skills

Understanding the Mixologist job description can also help in selecting skills that align with your career aspirations.

Learning Format and Scheduling Flexibility

Determine if you prefer in-person hands-on instruction, online self-paced courses, or a mix of both. Consider the class timings and your availability to ensure you can commit fully.

Job Placement and Certification

Check if the school offers job placement assistance or connections with local bars. Certifications like TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol can enhance your hiring prospects, so see if these are included or supported.

Employers seeking qualified Bartenders with certifications may benefit from partnering with certified schools.

3. Benefits of Attending a Bartending School in St. Louis

Enrolling in a bartending school has many advantages that help build a successful hospitality career.

Professional Skill Development: Learn cocktail craft, mixology, speed, and presentation under expert guidance.
Understanding of Local Industry: Schools often include local beverage knowledge and regulations, which is essential in St. Louis’ thriving bar scene.
Certification for Employability: Completing recognized programs boosts credibility with employers and improves job prospects.
Flexible Learning Options: Many schools offer online and evening classes to fit around other commitments.

For those managing a bar, learning about bar manager roles can complement skills gained from bartending school.

4. Additional Certifications and Legal Requirements for Bartenders in St. Louis

Bartenders in St. Louis often benefit from obtaining certifications related to responsible alcohol service.

TIPS Certification

TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) certification teaches responsible serving practices, preventing intoxication and underage drinking. It’s widely recognized by employers.

ServSafe Alcohol Certification

ServSafe Alcohol focuses on alcohol laws and responsible service, providing bartenders with crucial knowledge to comply with Missouri state regulations.

Many bartending schools incorporate or recommend these certifications to improve employability and legal compliance.

Employers can learn more about certification importance from bartender health and safety resources.

5. St. Louis Bartending Schools: Additional Resources

For more information on bartending regulations, certification, or industry updates, check these official resources:

Top Bartending Schools in St. Louis: Conclusion

St. Louis provides excellent bartending education options for aspiring Mixologists and bartenders. From flexible online classes to comprehensive hands-on programs, students can find a course to fit their lifestyle and career goals.

Choosing a certified school that offers broad skill training, customer service emphasis, and certification opportunities will prepare you well for work in St. Louis’ dynamic hospitality scene.

Hospitality employers interested in recruiting top bartending talent can explore how to hire restaurant staff fast to streamline their hiring process.

01. What types of bartending programs are available in St. Louis?

St. Louis offers a variety of bartending programs including in-person intensive courses, online self-paced classes, and hybrid options to fit different learning needs.

02. Are there certifications that can improve employability in bartending?

Yes. Certifications like TIPS and ServSafe Alcohol are commonly offered or recommended by bartending schools in St. Louis and can boost your chances of getting hired.

03. Can I choose between hands-on and online instruction?

Many schools offer flexible formats, including in-person hands-on training and online courses, enabling students to pick according to their schedules and preferences.

04. What should I look for when choosing a bartending school?

Consider the program curriculum, scheduling flexibility, certifications offered, and job placement assistance when deciding on a bartending school in St. Louis.

05. Are there resources for staying informed on bartending laws and certifications?

Yes. Official resources like the Missouri Department of Alcohol and Tobacco Control and Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education websites provide valuable updates and information.