What is Lexington Bartending School all about?

Lexington Bartending School, established in 1994 and state licensed by the Kentucky Proprietary Board of Education, is now in its 29th year of providing qualified and professional bartenders to Kentucky and nationwide. Our mission is to provide extremely skilled bartenders to employers in a cost effective manner by reducing the in-house training factor, thereby increasing their capacity to deliver outstanding service to their bar patrons. We are committed to providing an affordable training program to anyone desiring to work in the food and beverage industry as well as preparing them for success. Our graduates consistently earn back their tuition in only a few shifts!

How long is the course?

Our class is designed to be completed in 2-3 weeks, at a total of 60 hours.

When are classes?

Classes are Monday - Thursday! Day class is from 12-4pm, with night class from 6-10pm.

I am a very busy person, can I only attend 1-2 classes a week?

Classes are very flexible and forgiving! Once students have completed their initial Monday start date, all of the other classes can be taken at your own pace. Most of our students, work full time jobs, or are in college and can only be present once or twice a week.

Do I have to stay for the entire 4 hour class?

Students will be given a cocktail demonstration for a family of drinks, which generally takes around an hour. After the lecture, we will offer a practice session for 2-3 hours with the instructor to highlight the days lesson and develop better bartending skills.

If I don’t finish classes within 3 weeks, can I come back later to finish?

Of course! We allow students up to 6 months of unlimited classes from their initial start date to complete our course.

How often do classes start?

Classes start every other week, request more information to find out when you can start.

Is bartending full time worth it or should I only plan to work part time?

A career in bartending is a great break from the grueling pace of the corporate world and a step up from the day to day job. A professional bartender can earn a substantial living that is better than many careers which require expensive and longer schooling. Additionally, bartending is a great second income to aid in paying bills and being a security blanket to fall back on when necessary. Many of our graduates have a full time job, and bartend on the weekends or for the racetrack seasonally.

Are there any bartending jobs available now?

The need for skilled bartenders is sky-high, which means landing a job can be a breeze once you've got the right training under your belt! It's pretty rare to find a job, like professional bartending, where you can dive in and start raking in awesome tips right away.

Sure, there might be some steps to take when you're just getting into the service industry, but guess what? As a bartender, you could be pulling in hundreds of dollars a day in tips right after your training. And here's the bonus: bartending can be a gig that lets you move around too – large companies all across the country are always on the hunt for trained bartenders like you. 

What kind of jobs are available?

A bartending career allows people the freedom to choose a work environment that matches their personality. A good bartender can work anywhere in the country, or in the world.

Some bartenders might prefer the hotel or country club environment, while others enjoy the charm of neighborhood bars, or the excitement of nightclubs or race tracks. Whatever your preference, bartending can offer fun & profitable surroundings.

Can’t I learn how to bartend on the job?

While learning on the job can offer valuable real-world experience, enrolling in a reputable bartending school provides an essential foundation that can significantly enhance your skills and career prospects. Bartending is an intricate craft that goes beyond simply mixing drinks; it involves a deep understanding of various liquors, cocktail recipes, mixology techniques, and the art of impeccable customer service.

Attending bartending school allows you to receive comprehensive training from seasoned professionals who have honed their expertise over years. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment, mastering the fundamentals and perfecting your technique before stepping into a fast-paced, high-pressure bar setting. Moreover, bartending school offers a structured curriculum that covers responsible alcohol service, and essential safety protocols, ensuring you’re well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise. Investing in your education at a bartending school demonstrates your commitment to excellence, setting you apart as a skilled and knowledgeable bartender from day one. Professionally trained bartenders are cultivating their expertise and gaining experience based on knowledge, rather than constructing bad habits.

I don’t have any bartending tools, where can I get what I need?

You’re in luck! We offer a variety of bar tools to suit your every need.

I own a bar, business, or am planning an event and I need help, what can I do?

Our directors have a combined 20 years of professional experience in the alcohol and bar business, request more info on our page, and we will reach out to you within 48 hours.

Are there any other opportunities beyond bartending that I could utilize this course for?

As a bartender, you open doors to management roles and the potential for an exciting career journey. Imagine the satisfaction of making your mark and advancing in the industry you're passionate about. What's even more appealing is the freedom to craft your own work-life balance. Choose where and when you work, granting yourself the ultimate flexibility. Many of our graduates utilize this knowledge to sell alcohol for a distributor or major brand, and our courses allow them to sell their products more efficiently by offering cocktail menu ideas and guidance.

But there's another twist to this adventure. Beyond the professional sphere, your newfound expertise can light up your personal life too. Imagine impressing your own guests with your skill in concocting today's most sought-after drinks, turning any gathering into a memorable experience. So, whether you're pursuing a full-throttle career or looking for a flexible side hustle, bartending offers a path brimming with potential, creativity, and endless opportunities.