When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Texas School of Bartenders
Why Texas School of Bartenders is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Texas School of Bartenders is a premier bartending school known for its comprehensive and engaging training programs that prepare students for fast-paced, professional bartending careers. Located in Texas, a state rich with a vibrant bar culture and booming hospitality industry, this school offers a dynamic environment tailored for both newcomers and career changers who are eager to enter or excel in bartending. The typical course spans two weeks with flexible scheduling options including morning and evening classes lasting four hours per day, allowing students to fit their training around other commitments. Classes are taught by seasoned instructors who are passionate about mixology and dedicated to student success, providing hands-on experience in a real bar setting using quality fake alcohol for safe practice. Students particularly enjoy learning complex skills such as layering drinks and even fire-breathing techniques. Additionally, the program includes TABC certification to ensure graduates meet Texas state requirements. Testimonials highlight the school’s professionalism, fun atmosphere, and practical focus, making it an excellent place to meet fellow aspiring bartenders and form lasting industry connections. With the hospitality scene flourishing across Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio, attending this school offers invaluable local insight and an effective path to employment opportunities in the region.
Here's what people think of Texas School of Bartenders
As of recent, Texas School of Bartenders holds a 4.8-star rating based on 82 reviews.
Reviews for Texas School of Bartenders overwhelmingly reflect a positive student experience with an overall rating of 4.8 from 82 reviews. Students praise the knowledgeable and patient instructors such as Kevin Tower and Ron 'Malibu' McNiell, who bring enthusiasm and real-world bartending expertise to the classroom, fostering a lively and supportive learning environment. Many reviewers note the school’s practical approach, flexible class schedules, and inclusion of TABC certification as significant strengths that helped them jumpstart their careers quickly. Graduates frequently report immediate job offers following course completion, underscoring the school’s reputation in the local bartending community. Positive reviews also highlight the fun atmosphere, hands-on training, and opportunities to master advanced skills like fire breathing and mixology artistry. On the other hand, some critiques come from the challenge of learning with fake alcohol, which can make certain techniques like layering drinks harder to master compared to real alcohol. A few note the bar setting can be intense for those not comfortable with a lively environment. Overall, the consensus is that Texas School of Bartenders provides a high-quality education with instructors who genuinely care about student success, making it a top choice for aspiring bartenders seeking both skills and career connections in Texas's thriving hospitality industry.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Keyla M Orama
I had a fantastic experience at Texas School of Bartenders Austin! From start to finish, James is knowledgeable and passionate about what he does. The hands-on training really helped me build confidence behind the bar, and the lessons were fun, interactive, and packed with useful tips. The school provided a great balance of practical skills, cocktail recipes, and industry insights, which prepares you for real-world bartending. The environment was welcoming, and I met some awesome classmates along the way. I definitely recommend this bartending school to anyone looking to break into the industry or just improve their bartending skills. It was truly a valuable and enjoyable experience!
Joe Jing
I've been in the tech industry for over 20 years and hitting a rough spot. I'm looking to supplement my income and maybe even make a complete pivot. I'm a big fan of the night life - dive bars, lounges, speakeasies, and dance clubs. There are mixed viewpoints from industry vets on the value of courses, and you aren't guaranteed a job. But I wanted a solid foundation to start with. Location near central Austin and night classes were convenient for me. And I thought the price was fair for what you get The school is stealthily located in a business park. But as soon as you walk in, it's like entering a fully stocked bar, complete with music, lighting, and hundreds of bottles of alcohol - filled with approximately colored water :) Classes are fast paced and intense. But also fun. Jim is a great instructor that's been in the bar business for decades and is a wealth of knowledge and motivation. If you're looking for a great foundation to begin your bartending journey, I recommend this course
Alia Devine
First off, there’s no bartending license that comes with this course. When I asked about the bartending license Jim laughed. Honestly, I was excited for this school because of all the positive reviews, but it wasn’t what I was expecting at all. I asked for a refund and ws ignored after only taking one class. My first class started out fun but quickly became a drag. I appreciate the layout of the class because the design is just like a bar, and we get booklets that show us everything we need to know. However, My instructor Jim was a bit much for me with his teaching style. I’m completely fine with a stern teacher but he was militant and things quickly got uncomfortable after being yelled at for using my phone during class. He seemed very on edge and made me uncomfortable. He told me it would be a $600 investment which is a lot to get yelled at in front of class. I work in the medical field and was wanting to get bartending experience for extra income but felt like I was back in high school. I decided not to come back after the first class which was disappointing.
Mika Morgan
Omg y’all! Take this course, you won’t regret it. I had so much fun coming to class everyday. Classes are only 4 days a week for 2 weeks. I learned so much in such a short time. I had to miss a bunch of classes and my teacher Jim was so accommodating with my schedule and letting me reschedule dates and come back at a later time. I was also able to do a payment plan for the cost of the school so that was lovely as well. Thank you Jim and Austin School of Bartending for a wonderful experience.
Taylor Snyder
Jim (the instructor) is amazing! The atmosphere feels like a bar, and you most definitely get what you pay for. I went in knowing absolutely nothing, and now I feel prepared to go into a bartending job! I would 100% recommend coming here to get your bartending license, or just some experience in the field!!
How to reach Texas School of Bartenders
None
Website: None
Why Texas School of Bartenders may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Texas School of Bartenders with your friends? Because it offers a unique and engaging environment that combines learning, entertainment, and social bonding all under one roof. This business is not just about professional bartending courses—it's a dynamic venue where groups can come together for a memorable experience. Whether you want to sharpen your cocktail skills or just enjoy a fun-filled gathering, Texas School of Bartenders provides an environment that is perfect for friends and family meetups. Its reputation for friendly and professional instruction sets a welcoming tone that encourages interaction, laughter, and teamwork. Imagine learning to craft over 150 different drinks together, sharing stories with expert instructors, and even mastering fun tricks like fire breathing. This makes it more than a class—it’s a social event with an educational twist. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from 82 reviews, the school has earned a solid reputation for creating a vibrant and memorable atmosphere. The flexible scheduling and lively bar setting also ensure everyone’s comfort and inclusion, making it an ideal rally point to unwind and connect.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Texas School of Bartenders? The school offers hands-on bartending courses designed for both beginners and those seeking to refine their skills. The curriculum covers everything from bar setup and break down to free-pouring, shaking, straining, and mastering the art of mixology with over 150 different drinks and 30 popular shooters. These classes take place in a lively bar setting, offering a practical, real-world experience that is both instructive and enjoyable. The instructors are experienced professionals who combine expertise with entertaining teaching styles, making learning interactive and fun. For example, you can learn how to breathe fire safely—a spectacle guaranteed to spice up your gathering. The school also teaches how to use advanced Point of Sale systems widely used in the industry, preparing students for actual bartending work. Such variety guarantees that everyone finds something enjoyable and engaging.
Why is Texas School of Bartenders a perfect place for group meetups? First, it fosters teamwork by involving participants directly in the process of making drinks and managing a bar environment. This promotes collaboration and shared success, perfect for friends or families looking to bond through a common goal. Second, the social atmosphere is energized by instructors who are not only knowledgeable but also personable, sharing bartending stories and tricks that keep the mood lively. Third, the flexible scheduling options accommodate different group sizes and time preferences, ensuring convenience. Fourth, the venue’s bar-like environment naturally encourages conversation, laughter, and a celebratory spirit that’s difficult to find elsewhere. Lastly, because bartending is both a skill and an art, groups get to experience hands-on creativity, making each session unique and memorable. The positive reviews reflect how many past groups have enjoyed the blend of learning and fun here, confirming its appeal for social gatherings.
What can you expect from the instructors at Texas School of Bartenders? The instructors bring a blend of professional experience and engaging personalities, which elevates the entire experience. Past students praise the instructors for being patient, knowledgeable, and hilarious, creating a relaxed yet effective learning environment. Instructors like Kevin and Malibu have been highlighted for not only teaching technical skills but also entertaining their students with stories and demonstrations, such as fire breathing. This helps reduce the stress often associated with learning new skills and instead makes the experience enjoyable. Furthermore, the instructors’ real-world bartending knowledge helps students understand the fast pace of bar service and develops confidence behind the bar. Their dedication to teaching is evident from the many testimonials suggesting the instructors could rival college professors in effectiveness and enthusiasm. This combination makes the school an excellent venue for groups to learn together in a fun, nurturing environment.
How does Texas School of Bartenders cater to different skill levels and schedules? The school is highly flexible in accommodating various learning needs. It offers classes over two weeks, with options for morning or evening sessions, which is ideal for balancing different schedules within a group. Whether someone is a complete beginner or looking to expand an existing bartending skill set, the curriculum is designed to be comprehensive yet accessible. The use of fake alcohol in the training allows students to practice without pressure while still learning the intricacies of drink making. Additionally, experienced instructors tailor the pace to the class, ensuring everyone stays engaged without feeling overwhelmed. This flexibility makes it easy for groups with varied experience and availability to participate together without difficulties. The supportive environment encourages all participants to develop their skills confidently on their own terms.
What extra benefits does Texas School of Bartenders offer as a meetup destination? Beyond just bartending classes, the school provides a lively social setting that elevates any group outing. The venue mimics a professional bar environment, letting attendees feel immersed in the nightlife scene without the pressures of a club. This creates a casual atmosphere where conversations flow easily, and people can relax while learning. Another benefit is the networking potential; the school’s connections with the hottest bars, restaurants, and clubs in Texas can be inspiring for anyone curious about bartending or hospitality industries. Graduates often gain an edge in job placement, which adds further incentive for groups interested in future career opportunities. There are also entertaining elements like flame tricks and mixology challenges that add excitement and foster friendly competition. Finally, many past attendees report that the school’s welcoming vibe turns strangers into friends, making it a great place for social groups to enhance their relationships.
What makes Texas School of Bartenders stand out compared to other meetup spots? This location combines education and entertainment in a way that typical bars or restaurants don’t. While regular bars offer drinks, they lack structured activities to engage groups with purpose and skill-building. Texas School of Bartenders provides a unique opportunity for groups to share an experience that improves practical skills while having fun together. Its long history since 1990 and multiple locations across Texas demonstrate its established reputation and commitment to quality. The overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the professionalism and appeal of the school’s approach. In addition, the presence of flexible scheduling and customizable class formats add to its attractiveness as a venue for special occasions, celebrations, or casual gatherings. The school’s focus on both fun and learning makes it a rare spot where groups can rally around an activity that is genuinely enjoyable and rewarding.
How do the reviews reflect the overall experience customers can expect? The average 4.8-star rating from over 80 reviews highlights customer satisfaction and reliability. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and professional nature of the staff, the engaging and practical course content, and the enjoyable environment. Many testimonials emphasize how the instructors’ personalities make the classes entertaining and how students leave feeling confident and equipped with valuable skills. Feedback from employees and students alike praise the fast-paced, realistic bar training that prepares participants well for real bartending jobs or simply to impress friends with their newfound abilities. Several comments also note the welcoming and social atmosphere, perfect for group outings. This consistent positive sentiment confirms that visitors can expect a high-quality, fun, and meaningful experience at Texas School of Bartenders.
What is the location and accessibility of Texas School of Bartenders? With multiple sites across Texas, including Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Fort Worth, the school is easily accessible for many groups statewide. This geographic spread allows friends or family members living in different cities to find a convenient spot. For example, the Houston location at 3300 Chimney Rock Rd Ste 303 is situated between Beverly Hill St & Schumacher Ln, making it easy to reach by car or public transit. The school’s flexibility in class timing also means groups can pick sessions that best fit their availability, reducing logistical stress. These aspects contribute to the school’s popularity as a meetup venue because it balances convenience with a distinctive activity experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in Texas.
Why should someone consider Texas School of Bartenders for their next group event? Inviting friends or family to a bartending class here guarantees more than just drinks—it’s about crafting an engaging experience that combines education, entertainment, and social interaction. The expertly designed classes foster new skills, team bonding, laughter, and memorable moments. Unlike ordinary meetups, it offers a chance to learn a professional craft under expert guidance while having fun and exploring creativity. The positive environment, high ratings, and flexible offerings all work together to make it an excellent choice for birthdays, celebrations, or casual hangouts. Choosing Texas School of Bartenders ensures your group will share an activity that is both meaningful and exciting, creating lasting memories beyond the usual dinner or drinks out.