Drinknation Forums

Sirey4 · Monkey-in-training Joined: 21 Mar 2006 Posts: 1

I'm thinking about enrolling in a Bartending School and doing bartending as an occasional side job for some extra fun and cash. Does anyone know if it is common for Bartenders to work only 2-3 nights a week? and if the shifts for starters are even actually offered past 5 P.M.? I wouldn't mind starting as a bar-back on slow nights either, but i'm wondering if there are even possible jobs considering my lack of time and experience.

jennyng · Monkey Joined: 28 Dec 2005 Posts: 12 Location: Queens, NY

If your talking about a busy bar, the chances that they are going to give you prime time hours are slim to none. However, if you're applying to bars that are not that busy/lounges etc that are hiring, then yes...I started off with Fri and Sat nights (usually 7pm-4am.) However, please keep in mind that calling out and stuff is frown upon especially when you have such good hours. Also...when it's slow, the time goes by even slower. GOOD LUCK!

cubaluba · Monkey Joined: 14 May 2006 Posts: 19

As far as the UK goes, you can expect to work 6 days a week, up to 16 hours a day, and as many as 90 hours a week. this applies to busy top end cocktail bars, often 6 deep at the bar for at least 6 of those hours. the rest is all set up and clear down. cleardown being the biggest pain in anyones ass especially when you have to get down on your belly with a flashlight and broom handle to dig out the lime wedges and bottle caps that have flown astray and are now cemented to the floor with postmix syrup, then deck scrub, then dry mop, then mopped once more for good measure. if this doesnt put you off bartending, then you have definite staying power and can come and work for me anyday.