When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology
Why Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology offers a unique and comprehensive learning experience for aspiring bartenders in New York City. Established in 1965, it has a long history of training students who have gone on to excel in a variety of roles across the hospitality industry, including bars, clubs, private staffing, and catering. What truly sets this school apart is its commitment to teaching bartending as a craft—not just drink recipes. Students learn by using real, alcoholic spirits rather than substitutes, allowing them to develop a genuine palate and a deeper understanding of flavor combinations. The instructors—all graduates of the program—bring firsthand experience and enthusiasm, ensuring students receive effective, relatable guidance. The school runs an affordable 5-week evening course, capping classes at 40 participants, to foster a supportive yet energetic learning environment. Beyond technique, students also master essential bartender skills such as multitasking efficiently while remaining personable. The culminating exam requires participants to craft drinks on stage as they narrate their process to a judging panel, reinforcing confidence and public speaking. Located on Columbia University's Morningside Heights campus, this school offers a great place to gather with friends interested in mixology as well as prepare for a rewarding bartending career.
Here's what people think of Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology
As of recent, Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology holds a 4.4-star rating based on 8 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology for its authentic and practical approach to bartender training. Many highlight the value of learning with real alcohol, which enhances the overall educational experience and distinguishes it from other schools that use non-alcoholic substitutes. Positive comments often commend the affordability of the course, noting it as a cost-effective way to gain valuable skills. The instructors receive particular acclaim for being knowledgeable, supportive, and approachable, likely due to their background as program graduates who understand student needs firsthand. The fun and interactive classroom atmosphere, including opportunities to try multiple cocktails during sessions, also earns positive remarks. On the other hand, some reviews mention the challenge of balancing the physical aspects of bartending with the social skills required, which speaks more to the rigor of the program than to any shortcomings. A few note that the pressure of the final practical exam on stage can be intense but acknowledge its importance for real-world readiness. Overall, feedback suggests that students who engage fully with the instruction walk away confident and well-prepared. The blend of practical training, knowledgeable staff, lively classes, and reasonable pricing makes Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology a highly respected option for those looking to meet friends and develop genuine bartending expertise.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amelia
I took a class with the Agency and it was an incredible experience! The classes ran about two hours each and were very professional and informative. I had absolutely no experience in barteding prior to this course and I learned so much from the practice drinks (students over 21 get to drink their concoctions) and demonstrations. The teachers were college students but they efficiently and effectly covered a vast array of techniques (muddling/free pouring/shaking/etc.) and subjects (cocktails/wine/beer/safety/etc). I paid $250--an excellent deal considering the textbooklet/course/drinks--for the class and I made that back (and then some) within the first two parties I worked. I would definitely recommend the CBA to prospective bartenders who want to learn or hosts looking for excellent and professional bartenders to hire!!
Andres El Rey
The reason I am writing this review is because you most likely want honesty before spending money than reading "google user" review of people who prob work for the agency and making fake reviews. The teachers are nice from what I gathered in the past 2 days of the classes. But professionalism is not there. I have not really learned a trick for that class yet as I read some reviews about learning tricks. Its a 2 hour class mon thru friday that will leave you going......wait so I could have slept instead of being here. There is no consistency with these classes or how they are teaching you. They will ask you how to make a drink before even teaching you or even showing you how its done. You will get random info in random steps that will leave you so confused example..... " class this is how you muddle....oh you do not know what muddling is but we will get into that soon".....20mins later goes by after they showed you h ow t o muddle....you than get a definition on what the hell muddling is ....also its filled with very inappropriate jokes that are not professional and also just not funny and takes away from the learning experience. The people who are teaching you are college students and they all know each other so they pretty much have inside jokes during them teaching you that will further make u lost....my experience was pretty bad...and i did not learn anything and 300 bucks has just swam away from my life.
Mariel Corinne Tai Sander
This course gave me a comprehensive and helpful introduction to bartending (at a great price, too). The instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and super approachable. They're always willing to go over the details of a new bartending skill or talk about their own experiences bartending (as long as you ask). I've definitely used a lot of the tips I learned in class when actually bartending, both in making actual drinks and interacting with customers. I'd highly recommend CBA to anyone looking to start bartending!!
Brennan McManus
I had a great time with the classes and learned a lot about drink mixing, that I use both for myself and for when I'm serving drinks. Memorization is key for the drink recipes on the final, but the teachers are friendly and informative.
Su K
I am giving 5 because I don't wanna be the only loser who paid 300 bucks for this useless class. It is basically 1 hour lecture class and you don't have enough time/space for hands on experience. Better to practice at home while watching youtube video.
How to reach Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology
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Why Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology with your friends?
Gathering at the Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology provides a unique and vibrant experience perfect for groups of friends or family looking to bond over a fun, interactive activity. Unlike typical social venues, this place offers the rare chance to learn bartending and mixology skills together under expert guidance on Columbia University’s prestigious Morningside Heights campus. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about gaining knowledge, refining your palate, and crafting delicious cocktails using real alcohol—something very few schools allow. Imagine the camaraderie that builds as you and your group shake, stir, and create signature drinks side by side. Plus, with a high rating of 4.4 from 8 reviews, the positive experiences and professionalism here are well recognized. The experience is educational yet highly enjoyable, and finishing a session together leaves everyone with a sense of accomplishment and fun stories to share. Whether you want to improve cocktail-making skills or just have a memorable night out, this agency turns a group meetup into an event full of laughter, learning, and great drinks.
What activities can you do at Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology?
At Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology, the main activity revolves around intensive and engaging bartending classes designed to teach you how to craft cocktails professionally. The introductory course, spanning five classes, provides hands-on training using actual spirits rather than fake substitutes, which is quite rare in bartending education. This practical approach helps participants understand the true essence of mixology, experimenting with flavors and creating both classic and contemporary drinks. Beyond the basic mixology lessons, the school provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers the fundamental skills of bartending—the techniques, timing, and customer service essential for success behind the bar. Since all instructors are graduates of the program and have real-world bartending experience, they deliver practical insights that go beyond recipes. For groups, these classes become interactive workshops filled with friendly competition, collaboration, and shared triumphs as each member perfects their pouring and shaking skills. Outside of classes, the agency also offers opportunities to hire professional bartenders for events, creating a seamless connection from learning to experiencing expert service together.
Why is this place perfect for a group meetup?
The Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology excels as a group meetup spot because it mixes education, entertainment, and social interaction in a wrapped package of memorable experiences. Unlike a typical bar or restaurant where the primary focus is consumption, here, the group actively engages in learning a craft, which naturally brings people closer together. The intimate class size enables personalized attention, creating an inviting environment for all skill levels—from complete beginners to cocktail enthusiasts. Moreover, the curriculum is designed to build confidence and foster creativity, allowing friends or family to experiment with drinks and discover new favorites, deepening shared experiences. The setting on the Columbia University campus adds an element of prestige and excitement, making it feel like a special outing rather than a routine night out. Additionally, pricing is reasonable for the value offered, meaning groups can enjoy a premium activity without overspending. This combination of learning, fun, hands-on involvement, and social bonding makes it the ideal destination for a group looking for something beyond the usual meetup.
How does the use of real alcohol enhance the experience?
One of the defining features of Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology is its commitment to teaching with real alcohol instead of flavored water or substitutes, which is a rarity among bartending schools nationwide. This approach profoundly enriches the learning experience because it allows participants to truly understand how the different spirits interact and complement each other, rather than just memorizing ingredients or techniques in theory. When friends take the class together, they savor the authentic nuances that each spirit brings to a cocktail, fostering a deeper appreciation for mixology as a craft and art form. By practicing with real ingredients, students learn the subtleties of taste, balance, and aroma—skills that translate directly to confidence behind any bar. It also makes the sessions more enjoyable and authentic, enhancing the social atmosphere as participants genuinely taste their creations, share feedback, and bond over their successes and amusing missteps. Using actual alcohol turns the class into a genuine cocktail tasting experience, one that’s both educational and highly enjoyable for a group eager to drink well-crafted drinks.
What professional advantage does the school offer to students and attendees?
The Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology is not just about fun nights out; it’s a renowned institution that has trained bartenders since 1965, making it a leader in the industry with a proven track record of excellent alumni success. Attending classes here can serve as a stepping stone for anyone looking to break into the hospitality industry professionally or simply become a more knowledgeable enthusiast. All instructors are graduates themselves who have gone on to achieve bar and club success, so they provide insider knowledge that’s current and relevant, including customer service skills and industry tips. This reputation gives attendees confidence in the quality and seriousness of the education. For groups, especially friends considering a new career path together or people wanting to explore professional bartending as a hobby, this school offers a credible certification and skillset. Moreover, the agency can connect you to professional bartending work or private staffing for events, bridging the gap from classroom to career. This professional dimension enriches the group experience, making it both practical and enjoyable.
How accessible and affordable is the experience for groups?
Accessibility and affordability are key features that make Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology attractive for group meetups. Compared to other bartending schools that can charge upwards of $800 for similar courses, Columbia offers its intensive hands-on experience at approximately $300 to $350, which includes instruction with real alcohol and a coursebook. This pricing makes it an accessible option for friends or families looking to try something new without breaking the bank. Since classes are held on the university campus, they are centrally located in New York City, making it easy for groups coming from many parts of the city or even visiting guests to attend. The relatively short course length (just five classes) allows busy groups to fit the experience into their social calendars without a big time commitment. Additionally, small class sizes mean more focused attention and interaction, boosting the value of the experience. Whether it’s a casual outing or a unique celebration, this combination of affordability, location, and quality makes hosting a meetup here both practical and rewarding.
What makes the atmosphere and instructors unique?
The atmosphere at the Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology is a blend of professional polish and approachable encouragement, perfect for groups looking to feel challenged yet supported. The instructors stand out because they have all graduated from the program themselves and worked in the field, giving them an empathetic and practical teaching style that resonates with students. Their familiarity with the learning curve allows them to foster a relaxed, friendly environment where questions are welcomed and mistakes are treated as part of the learning process. This creates a positive vibe ideal for groups who want to enjoy each other’s company while expanding their skill sets. The school’s location on an Ivy League campus also adds a layer of sophistication and history, inspiring participants to take the craft seriously without losing the joy of social learning. This combination of expertise, empathy, and exclusive atmosphere turns the bartending classes into memorable group adventures where everyone feels empowered and connected.
How can this experience enhance your social gatherings beyond the school?
Participating in a group bartending class at Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology has lasting effects that extend well beyond the classroom. The skills learned empower attendees to take their new mixology knowledge back to social occasions, turning ordinary gatherings into elevated cocktail parties with signature drinks made by the hosts themselves. This can transform how a group of friends or family enjoys celebrations, holidays, or casual weekends by adding an element of creativity and expertise that impresses guests and sparks conversations. The bonding from learning together strengthens relationships and creates shared stories to revisit. Furthermore, the sense of accomplishment from mastering new techniques provides confidence that encourages more frequent and enjoyable entertaining at home or social events. For anyone who loves hosting or wants to improve their social occasions, this experience offers practical skills and memories that enrich all future meetups.
Why choose the Columbia Bartending Agency over a typical bar or lounge meetup?
Choosing Columbia Bartending Agency and School of Mixology over a typical bar or lounge meetup means prioritizing an active, enriching experience instead of passive socializing. Instead of just observing others bartend or ordering drinks, your group transforms into participants who are learning, tasting, and crafting every step of the way. This hands-on involvement increases engagement and enjoyment, making every member feel involved and valued. The educational setting also allows groups to control the pace and style of interaction, accommodating both competitive spirits and more laid-back learners. Since the school also fosters creativity in developing personalized cocktails, each meetup becomes uniquely tailored to the tastes and preferences of your group. This dynamic, skill-building atmosphere encourages deeper connection, laughter, and shared accomplishments, contrasting with the usual bar scene where interaction often revolves solely around ordering and consuming drinks. For groups seeking a meaningful, memorable, and fun night out, Columbia Bartending offers an unparalleled choice.