Mixology Classes Chicago

female bartender action shot

Chicago Mixology Classes: Learn, Enjoy, and Create With Confidence

Have you ever found yourself intrigued by the skill and finesse of a bartender’s ability to craft cocktails and wished you could recreate that magic at home?

Or perhaps you’re considering a career shift into the vibrant world of mixology? Dive into our Chicago Mixology Classes and discover the joy of creating stunning cocktails, whether for personal pleasure, entertaining friends, or as a stepping stone to a new career opportunity.

Mixologist crafting a cocktail

Understanding Mixology: More Than Just Mixing Drinks

An expert mixologist is much more than a bartender. While both roles serve patrons and manage the bar, the mixologist stands out as a cocktail artist, experimenting with flavors, textures, and ingredients to create unique and exciting beverages.

Are you worried that you need to be a drinker to learn mixology? Think again! Mixology is all about understanding flavors and creating combinations that please the palate and create world-class cocktail experiences.

The art of mixology goes well beyond classic cocktails. A true cocktail enthusiast will have the skills to create dessert, coffee, and alcohol-free mocktail options. No drinking is necessary as a bartender.

Mixology tools and ingredients

Becoming a Mixologist: A Rewarding Journey

Becoming a skilled mixologist takes time and dedication. While the journey to develop bartending skills that would qualify you as a master can take years, our Chicago Mixology Classes can kick-start your learning journey.

In a fun and interactive environment, we teach you the basics in just a few hours, leading you to mixology mastery.

Yes, you heard that right – in just a few hours, you will learn the basics of bar management, understand spirits, and discover the art of crafting cocktails.

You’ll also familiarize yourself with essential mixology tools, like a jigger for measuring spirits, and learn the three basic techniques of mixology – stirring, shaking, and building.

The Benefits: More Than Just a Skill

Not only does a mixologist command a decent income (with tips often boosting earnings), but they also enjoy a dynamic and sociable work environment.

The transition from bartender to mixologist is a natural progression, enriching your skills and making you more attractive to employers.

Our cocktail classes are a mixology experience that will teach you the fundamentals, allowing you to create balanced cocktails and bespoke cocktail menus and organize fun special events like Bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and more.  

female bartender

Cocktails: The Art of the Drink

What does learning mixology entail? From understanding the easiest drinks to make, like a gin and tonic or a rum and coke, to crafting beginner-friendly cocktails like a Mojito or a Whiskey Sour, our mixology classes equip you with the knowledge and skills to impress.

We will discuss the essentials needed for hosting a party, including bar rental, mixing packages if needed. But more importantly, we teach you how to have fun while doing it.

Cocktails on a bar top

Beginning Your Mixology Adventure

Starting your mixology journey is as simple as signing up for one of our classes.

Packed with practical knowledge, hands-on practice, and a healthy dose of fun, these classes will ignite your passion for mixology, whether you’re considering a career shift and looking for bartending jobs, or looking for a unique hobby.

Join us at our Chicago Mixology Classes and embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and enjoyment. Here, learning is a joyous adventure that ends not just with a sip, but with a smile.

Mixology class entrance

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we offer a range of non-alcoholic mocktails that are just as creative and flavorful as our cocktails.

Absolutely! We specialize in creating custom cocktail menus that match your event’s theme and style. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll craft unique drinks to impress your guests.

Booking bartenders from Bartender Chicago does not require you to purchase our mixing package.

We offer flexible services tailored to your specific event needs, whether you prefer to use our suggested mixers or provide your own.

We aim to support you in creating a customized bar experience that aligns with your vision and requirements, regardless of whether you opt for our mixing package.

Yes, Bartender Chicago can help you choose the alcohol for your event. We provide curated lists, quantities tailored to guest count, cocktail suggestions, and recommendations for trusted local businesses that deliver alcohol.

Our goal is to assist you in selecting the perfect beverages to make your event memorable.

Bartender Chicago specializes in bartending services and does not supply alcohol. However, we offer guidance on selecting beverages, providing curated lists, quantities tailored to guest count, and cocktail suggestions.

Trusted local businesses for alcohol delivery recommendations are also available, ensuring control over selection and cost while benefiting from professional expertise for a memorable event.

For a 150-person party, hiring at least 3 bartenders is recommended to ensure efficient service. With each bartender typically serving 30-40 drinks per hour, having 3 bartenders would help manage the drink service effectively and prevent long waiting times for guests.

Additionally, considering the number of guests and the type of drinks being served, it’s crucial to have adequate staffing to provide excellent customer service and keep the event running smoothly.

Bartenders typically require at least 30 minutes for standard setups, but for more elaborate preparations, such as icing down products or creating unique cocktail ingredients, up to an hour may be needed.

Our pricing structure for Bartender Chicago’s exceptional services is as follows:

Hourly Rate: $50 – $75 per hour, depending on the location.

Please note that in most cases, there is a minimum booking requirement of five hours.

Booking bartenders from Bartender Chicago does not obligate you to rent any equipment.

While recommendations for mixers and rental items are provided to complement the bartending services, you have the flexibility to use your own supplies.

Whether you choose to utilize our suggested items or provide your own, our team is committed to ensuring a seamless bar experience tailored to your event’s needs.

Bartender Chicago specializes in bartending services and does not supply alcohol.

However, we offer guidance on selecting beverages, providing curated lists, quantities tailored to guest count, cocktail suggestions, and recommendations for trusted local businesses that deliver alcohol.

This approach gives you full control over the selection and cost of alcohol while benefiting from professional expertise to create a memorable event.

For 100 guests, a general guideline is to plan for approximately 1 to 1.5 drinks per guest per hour. Assuming a 4-hour event and an average consumption rate of 1.25 drinks per hour, you would need around 500 to 750 drinks for your event.

Adjustments may be necessary based on your guests’ preferences and the event’s duration.

Bartender Chicago’s bartenders handle cleanup after the event, including disposal of used glassware and maintaining a tidy service space.

Cleanup services can be tailored to specific needs, from managing the bar area to providing full cleanup, ensuring a seamless experience aligned with the event’s requirements.

On average, guests consume about 1 to 1.5 drinks per hour at weddings.

This estimation can vary based on factors such as the length of the event, guest preferences, and the availability of other beverage options.

Bartenders typically wear professional attire to weddings, such as black dress pants or a skirt, a white dress shirt or blouse, and black dress shoes.

Adding a black vest or tie can also enhance the formal look for the occasion.

Maintaining a polished appearance while ensuring comfort is essential to provide excellent service throughout the event.

For an event with 50 guests, it is typically recommended to have 1 to 2 bartenders to ensure efficient service and timely drink preparation.

This allows for a smoother flow at the bar, ensuring that guests are served promptly and can enjoy the event without long waits for drinks.

It is generally not recommended for bartenders to drink alcohol while working.

Maintaining professionalism, attentiveness, and the ability to serve guests responsibly are key priorities in the role.

Bartenders focus on creating a safe and enjoyable environment for patrons, which includes refraining from consuming alcohol during their shifts.