Behind the Bar, Beyond the Borders: Travel Stories of a Bartender

Travel stories from bartenders might sound like a cliché, but in reality they play a huge role in our professional growth. Travelling overseas for work is exciting, formative, and often eye-opening. It is not about partying from one city to the next – save that for the backpackers – but rather about engaging with different […]
Beyond the Bar: The Tools of the Trade

One of the first things that catches the eye of guests entering a bar—and visiting bartenders with a curious gaze—is the gleam and array of tools behind the bar. The tools of the trade speak volumes about the bar’s style, attention to detail, and even its personality. From the common and well-known to the stylish […]
Aperitifs, Bitters and Amaro: Exploring the Bittersweet World of Liqueurs

Aperitifs, Bitters and Amaro have grown in popularity over the past decade, especially in Australia, where these bittersweet beverages are now staples in bars and homes alike. Steeped in European tradition—most notably Italian—these liqueurs are versatile, nuanced, and steeped in history. But what are the differences between these terms? And how do they fit into […]
Beyond the Bar: How AI Is Stirring Up the Hospitality Industry

Speed, efficiency, and innovation — the holy trinity of any successful business model. In hospitality, these principles have long guided how we work, compete, and evolve. But now, something new is sitting at the bar with us: Artificial Intelligence. Yes, AI has entered our world — and it’s not just lurking in back-office spreadsheets or […]
Beyond the Bar: Diary of a Bartender

The challenges of being a bartender go far beyond the long shifts and late nights. It’s something that’s been weighing on me for years—a quiet, persistent feeling I’ve carried since the moment I stepped behind the bar. I have a sense that I’m not alone in this, and I’m sharing it now in the hope […]
Beyond the Bar: A Bartender’s Guide to Build Wealth

A while ago, I reached out to our Bar Crafts community, sharing my intent to open a conversation about building wealth for bartenders. 💰 In our industry, we often discuss sustainability, seeking products that minimise environmental impact while flashing sleek labels.However, we sometimes overlook a critical aspect of sustainability: people. True sustainability begins with taking […]
“The Garnish Game”

An appealing garnish accounts for about 45% of a drink. It serves as the cocktail’s resume, presenting itself to a thirsty guest seated before a bartender. In the realm of cocktail bars and high-end restaurants, both bartenders and chefs place considerable emphasis on this aspect. But why is it so important? I’m certainly not a […]
All About Lacto Fermentation

Lacto-fermentation has been creating a buzz in the world of mixology, and NO, it has nothing to do with lactose or milk!This age-old technique, nearly a century in practice, serves as a significant enhancer, imparting depth and distinctive flavour to cocktails. Picture the harmonious blend of salty, umami, and tangy notes, complemented by a hint […]
Slushies – how to crack the right ratio!

As we brace ourselves for the warmer months in Australia, the irresistible allure of slushies beckons. We all love sipping on a frosty cocktail—coconut vessels and umbrellas are optional but highly preferred. However, in my quest for the ultimate slushy recipe—one that doesn’t drown in sugar yet preserves the essence of each ingredient—I felt like […]