cocktailrecipes Archives

How To Start Bartending

Posted on March 24, 2023

So you wanna learn to tend bar? So Cool!

If you’re an up-and-coming bartender looking to take your skills to the next level, then you should definitely consider signing up the TalkTales Patreon. Our Patreon offers a wealth of knowledge and experience from our mixologists, who have years of experience in the industry.

Not only will you have access to exclusive videos and tutorials, but you’ll also have the opportunity to receive one-on-one guidance from our experts. This includes personalized feedback on your bartending skills, as well as help with resume writing and advice on how to land your dream job.

With our Patreon, you’ll have all the tools you need to become a successful bartender and take your career to new heights. So why wait? Sign up today and start learning from the best in the business!

Are you looking to break into the world of bartending but don’t want to spend a fortune on bartending school? You’re not alone! Many successful bartenders have gotten their start without ever setting foot in a classroom. Here are some tips on how to get into bartending without going to bartending school:

Start with the basics: Before you start pouring drinks, it’s important to have a solid foundation of knowledge. This means learning the different types of spirits, the basics of cocktail making, and the proper techniques for shaking, stirring, and pouring. There are plenty of online resources available for free, including blogs, YouTube videos, and forums.
Practice at home: Once you’ve learned the basics, start practicing at home. Invest in a basic set of bar tools and start experimenting with different recipes. Invite friends over and practice making drinks for them, and ask for feedback on your creations. This will help you perfect your technique and gain confidence in your abilities.
Build your network: The key to success in the bartending world is networking. Attend industry events, such as trade shows and cocktail competitions, and get to know other bartenders and industry professionals. Offer to volunteer at events or do some free bartending for a charity event or a friend’s party. This will help you gain experience and build your reputation in the industry.
Look for job opportunities: Once you feel confident in your skills and have built up a network of contacts, start looking for job opportunities. Check online job boards, social media groups, and local classifieds for bartending positions. Don’t be afraid to start with an entry-level position, such as a barback or server, and work your way up.
Be persistent: Breaking into the bartending industry can be tough, but don’t give up. Keep practicing, networking, and looking for opportunities. Persistence is key, and with hard work and determination, you can achieve your goals.

Remember, you don’t need a formal education to become a successful bartender. With dedication, hard work, and a little bit of creativity, you can make your mark in the industry and craft delicious cocktails that keep customers coming back for more.

Mixology. The New Corporate Teambuilding Activity?

Posted on March 20, 2023

Why is Mixology the hottest team building event around?

Are you tired of the same old team building activities? Well, it’s time to shake things up with corporate mixology classes! Get ready to mix and mingle with your colleagues, while you learn how to make delicious cocktails that will impress even the most discerning palates.

First things first, let’s talk about the most important part of the class – the drinks! From classic margaritas to trendy craft cocktails, mixology classes offer a wide range of options to satisfy any taste bud. And don’t worry, there’s no judgment here – whether you like your drinks shaken or stirred, our expert bartenders will help you make the perfect concoction.

But mixology classes are more than just about drinks – they’re about bonding with your coworkers. As you mix, shake, and pour, you’ll be amazed at how much fun you can have outside of the office. And who knows, you might just discover a new side of your colleagues that you never knew existed.

And let’s not forget about the skills you’ll learn! Not only will you impress your friends at your next cocktail party, but you’ll also develop important workplace skills that can help you excel in your job. From creativity to communication to attention to detail, mixology classes offer a fun and playful way to enhance your professional development.

But the best part of mixology classes? The memories you’ll create! Whether it’s the time you accidentally spilled the grenadine all over your shirt or the moment when your team finally nailed the perfect Moscow mule, these classes offer a unique and unforgettable experience that you’ll be talking about for weeks.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your shaker and join your colleagues for a corporate mixology class that’s sure to shake things up in the best way possible!

How To Use A Boston Shaker

Posted on March 17, 2023

How To Use A Boston Shaker!

Hey there, cocktail lovers! Are you ready to step up your bartending game? Today, we’re going to talk about one of the most important tools of the trade: the Boston shaker. But forget about those boring mixing glasses, we’re all about using the metal-on-metal Boston shaker. So, let’s get shaking and have some fun!

First things first, let’s talk about the two parts of the Boston shaker. You’ve got the larger metal bottom and the smaller metal top. The two fit together perfectly to create a seal that allows you to shake your cocktail without spilling a drop. No more embarrassing spills on your kitchen counter or your friends’ clothes!

isolated boston shkaer on white background

Now, let’s talk about building your drink. We suggest building your cocktail in the smaller shaker, this shaker holds the total volume that fits inside the full tool. Add your ingredients first, then ice, and cap with the larger shaker. Give it a firm tap to create the seal, flip the shaker so the small shaker is on top, hold tight and shake, shake, shake! The metal-on-metal action helps to chill your drink faster, creates aeration, and gives you better control of dilution level.

When you’re ready to serve, tap the side of the shaker with the palm of your hand to break the seal. Pour your perfectly mixed cocktail into your glass of choice, garnish, and enjoy! Don’t forget to show off your skills by giving your shaker a little flair, like a spin or a toss, but be careful not to spill!

In conclusion, the Boston shaker is a must-have tool for any aspiring mixologist. Using the metal-on-metal shaker allows for a better mix and a faster chill, while also showing off your bartending skills. So, let’s raise our shakers to the sky and cheers to making delicious cocktails with style!

TalkTales Drink of the Week

Posted on January 4, 2023

The Irish Coffee – Pick me up and warm me up!

When the new year brings storms and epic cold temperatures, the Irish coffee is the perfect way to not only nurse the NYE aftermath but also an all week delight to bring the warm, comfort and get that 2023 energy revved up to take on this new year! This is what we are drinking this week at TalkTales Entertainment! Lets learn how!

Ingredients:

6 ounces hot, freshly brewed coffee
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey
Freshly whipped cream (see Recipe Notes)

Instructions

Preheat your mug, then fill with coffee. Pour hot water into a mug or heatproof glass to take the chill off. Pour out the water. This will also prevent your glass from cracking. Fill the mug about 3/4 full with the coffee.
Add sweetener. Add the granulated and brown sugars and stir until fully dissolved.
Add Irish whiskey. Add the whiskey and stir to incorporate.
Top with whipped cream. If using lightly whipped cream, pour it slowly over a warm spoon onto the coffee, being careful not to break the coffee’s surface. This takes some practice. A more foolproof way to not break the surface is to whip the cream a bit more and dollop it gently on top. Drink while hot!
Garnish with a dusting of cocoa

Recipe Notes

Hand whipped Irish cream…so bomb! And lots of options, check it out!

Ingredients

1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons confectioners sugar
2 ounces Irish cream liqueur, or your favorite dessert liqueur to taste!

Lightly whipped will give you a frothy cream collar (layer) on top. If you want to pile the cream high, you’ll need to whip it to medium-stiff peaks. We suggest using a plastic condiment bottle like shown in photo. Just add ingredients (don’t fill more than 1/2 the bottle or it wont whip) and start shaking! (approximately 3 mins or until cream stands on its own with out falling) Once whipped, squeeze gently over the cocktail forming a perfect separated layer of delicious irish cream!