Top 5 Best Bartending Schools in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and diverse cultural scene, is home to some of the best bartending schools in the country. Whether you’re aspiring to become a professional mixologist or simply looking to enhance your cocktail crafting skills, finding the right school is essential. Our guide to the ‘Top 5 Best Bartending Schools in Los Angeles’ will help you navigate the choices and find the perfect fit for your needs.

When considering a bartending school, there are several key services and aspects to keep in mind:

Comprehensive Training Programs: Look for courses that cover everything from basic techniques to advanced mixology.
Hands-on Experience: Practical experience behind a real bar is crucial for mastering the art of bartending.
Certification: Ensure the school offers recognized certifications to boost your credentials.
Job Placement Assistance: Some schools provide support in finding employment post-graduation.
Flexible Schedules: Options for part-time or evening classes can accommodate your personal timetable.
Affordable Tuition: Compare costs, which can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, to find a program that fits your budget.
Networking Opportunities: Connections with industry professionals can be invaluable for your career.

Delve into our guide to discover the top-rated bartending schools in Los Angeles, offering exceptional training to kickstart your career in the world of cocktails and craft beverages.

1. ABC Bartending School
2. National Bartenders School and Staffing of Los Angeles
3. Hospitality Training Academy Kitchen

4. National Bartenders School and Staffing of Sherman Oaks
5. Paradise Bar Events

Number of companies

1411

Verified reviews

4,74

Average rating

(5******09

1. ABC Bartending School

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

9229 Venice Blvd., 90034.0, Los Angeles

Bartending school
Trade school

Why we chose them

ABC Bartending School stands out as the largest privately owned bartending school system in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1977. The school, located in Los Angeles, California, offers comprehensive training that prepares students for a dynamic career in bartending. By leveraging the extensive experience of the Sylvester family, who have been deeply involved in the hospitality industry for three generations, the school provides a curriculum that covers everything from basic bar equipment and mixing techniques to customer service and job interview strategies. Students can choose from one, two, or three-week programs, ensuring flexibility to fit various schedules.

Graduates of the school benefit from the institution’s robust job placement assistance, which is offered free of charge for a lifetime. This support is a testament to the commitment to student success, helping place thousands of bartenders across the nation each year. With locations stretching from Seattle to South Beach, the institution offers free refresher courses at any of its campuses, making it a convenient choice for ongoing professional development. The school’s dedication to matching all local competitor prices further underscores its mission to provide accessible and quality education for aspiring bartenders.

(3******71

2. National Bartenders School and Staffing of Los Angeles

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

4049 Wilshire Blvd, 90010.0, Los Angeles

Bartending school
Employment consultant
Training centre
Vocational school

Why we chose them

National Bartenders School and Staffing of Los Angeles is a premier institution known for its exceptional bartending education and flexible training schedules. Located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, this school offers comprehensive courses designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the bartending industry. With a curriculum that covers mixology, bar management, and customer service, students gain hands-on experience in a world-class mock bar setting. The school stands out for its knowledgeable instructors, many of whom are industry veterans, providing students with real-world insights and personalized guidance.

Beyond training, the school excels as an employment consultant and staffing service, offering excellent job placement assistance for graduates. This vocational center is renowned for its unique approach to adult education, allowing students to create their own schedules, making it easier to balance personal commitments with professional development. With additional courses in flair bartending and TIPs certification, students are prepared for various roles in the hospitality sector. The focus on practical skills, combined with a supportive learning environment, makes this institution a top choice for aspiring bartenders in California.

(2******41

3. Hospitality Training Academy Kitchen

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

1234 S Western Ave, 90006.0, Los Angeles

Bartending school
Culinary school
Cooking class
Employment agency
Non
profit organization

Why we chose them

Hospitality Training Academy Kitchen offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking a career in the culinary and hospitality industries. As a non-profit organization, it provides high-quality, fast, and free training programs in Los Angeles and Phoenix. These programs include a culinary school, bartending school, and cooking classes, all designed to equip students with the skills they need to excel. With no cost to students, HTA ensures that financial barriers do not hinder access to education. The academy emphasizes practical, hands-on experience and collaborates with prestigious partners like top hotels and entertainment venues to facilitate successful job placements for its graduates.

What sets the academy apart is its commitment to providing comprehensive support throughout the job placement process. Students are not only trained in essential skills but also guided into well-paying jobs with benefits in reputable establishments. Programs such as the 8-week culinary apprenticeship and the 18-day prep cook training are tailored to meet industry demands, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The hands-on bartending training program, focusing on mixology and customer service, further exemplifies their dedication to comprehensive education. By choosing this academy, individuals gain access to a fast track towards a successful career in the hospitality sector.

(3******71

4. National Bartenders School and Staffing of Sherman Oaks

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

3460 Wilshire Blvd #1010, 90010.0, Los Angeles

Bartending school

Why we chose them

National Bartenders School and Staffing of Sherman Oaks stands out in the competitive world of bartending education by offering a dynamic and comprehensive training program. With a focus on both tradition and innovation, the school has been shaping the future of aspiring mixologists since 1984. Their specialized curriculum is designed to provide adult students with practical skills and in-depth mixology knowledge, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the fast-paced bartending industry. The school offers flexible class schedules to accommodate various responsibilities, allowing students to learn at their own pace while receiving personalized mentoring from seasoned industry veterans.

What truly sets this institution apart is its commitment to student success, highlighted by a work placement guarantee that helps graduates secure bartending positions upon completion of their training. With hands-on experience in crafting cocktails, understanding liquor laws, and mastering customer service, students are equipped with all the tools necessary for a successful bartending career. The school’s longstanding reputation and extensive network of locations across the United States, from Los Angeles to New York City, make it a trusted name in bartending education. The vibrant community and expert-led courses ensure that students not only learn the craft but also become part of a thriving bartending network.

(8******03

5. Paradise Bar Events

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

9927 Venice Blvd., 90034.0, Los Angeles

Bartending school
Catering food and drink supplier
Event management company
Mobile caterer

Why we chose them

Paradise Bar Events has been a staple in the Greater Los Angeles area for over two decades, offering a unique blend of vintage bar catering and modern mixology. Renowned for their mobile bartending service, they bring an old-school retro flair to any event, from private parties to corporate gatherings. Their team of expert mixologists, led by celebrity bartender Mitch Harris, is known for creating customized cocktails that enhance the ambiance and style of any occasion. This company excels in offering personalized themes and cocktails, becoming an integral part of the craft cocktail revival in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Their services extend beyond bartending, offering a comprehensive approach to event management. With offerings that include a bartending school, catering food and drink supply, and mobile catering, they ensure a seamless event experience with meticulous attention to detail. Paradise Bar Events prides itself on delivering high-quality service, regardless of the budget, focusing on every aspect of the event from the aesthetic presentation to the flavors of their beverages. This commitment to excellence makes them a standout choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance and creativity to their special events.

FAQs

What services do bartending schools in Los Angeles typically offer?

Bartending schools in Los Angeles usually offer comprehensive training programs that cover basic to advanced mixology techniques, hands-on experience behind a bar, certification upon completion, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

How much do bartending courses in Los Angeles typically cost?

The cost of bartending courses in Los Angeles can range from approximately €300 to €2000, depending on the program's length, content, and additional services like job placement assistance.

How long does it take to complete a bartending course in Los Angeles?

Most bartending courses in Los Angeles can be completed in a few weeks to a couple of months. The duration depends on whether you choose a full-time, part-time, or evening schedule.

What should I consider when choosing a bartending school?

When choosing a bartending school, consider the comprehensiveness of their training programs, hands-on experience, certification, job placement assistance, flexible scheduling, tuition costs, and networking opportunities.

Is certification important when attending a bartending school?

Yes, certification is important as it validates your skills and knowledge, making you more attractive to potential employers in the competitive bartending industry.

Do bartending schools in Los Angeles offer job placement assistance?

Many bartending schools in Los Angeles offer job placement assistance, helping graduates find employment in bars, restaurants, and other venues after completing their training.

Can I attend bartending school if I have a busy schedule?

Yes, many bartending schools offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time and evening classes, to accommodate students with busy personal or professional commitments.

Are there networking opportunities available through bartending schools?

Yes, bartending schools often provide networking opportunities with industry professionals, which can be invaluable for building connections and advancing your career in the bartending field.