Interview Prep Guide
What to expect and how to prepare for your bartending interview
Before the Interview
Preparation is key to making a great impression.
- Research the venue
Look up their menu, cocktail program, and vibe. Know what kind of bar it is.
- Plan your route
Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Know where to park or which transit to take.
- Bring your documents
Resume, certifications (RBS, Food Handler), and government ID.
- Prepare references
Have 2-3 professional references ready with their contact info.
Common Interview Questions
Be ready to answer these with specific examples from your experience.
Tell me about your bartending experience.
Focus on relevant experience: volume, cocktail programs, beer/wine knowledge.
How do you handle a busy rush?
Describe your system: prioritization, efficiency, staying calm under pressure.
How would you handle an intoxicated customer?
Show you know RBS requirements and can handle it professionally and safely.
What are your favorite cocktails to make?
Show your personality and passion. Mention classics and your own creations.
What's your availability?
Be honest and specific. Weekends and late nights are usually essential.
What to Wear
Dress one step above what you'd wear on shift.
Upscale cocktail bar
Business casual: dark jeans or slacks, collared shirt, clean shoes
Dive bar or pub
Clean casual: jeans, solid t-shirt or casual button-up
Nightclub
All black: trendy but professional
Hotel bar
Business casual to formal: dress pants, button-down
Always: Clean, wrinkle-free clothes. No strong cologne or perfume. Neat hair and nails.
Trial Shift Tips
Many bars will ask you to do a working interview.
- Bring your own bar tools if you have them (wine key, lighter)
- Ask about their POS system if you're unfamiliar
- Watch how other bartenders work and adapt to their flow
- Work efficiently but don't rush—accuracy over speed
- Be friendly with staff, not just managers
Questions to Ask Them
Good questions show you're serious about the position.
- What does a typical schedule look like?
- How is the tip pool structured?
- What does training look like?
- Do you have a signature cocktail program?
- What are your busiest nights?
Test Your Knowledge
Take our 15-question quiz to see how interview-ready you are