World Bartender Day.
Bartenders stand in a category of their own in the hospitality industry, and February 24 is the day to celebrate them with World Bartender Day.
Like chefs, they combine flavours and create new taste experiences. However, while many chefs operate from a hidden kitchen, a bartender’s skills are on display for all to watch. Like servers, they are in direct contact with customers and their level of service directly impacts the impression of a place. But, a bartender is responsible for the taste of the drink in hand.
Sam Gilani, a bar connoisseur in London, spells it out. “They create a unique atmosphere unlike that in any other form of hospitality, combining a relentless juggling of motor, memory, and people skills. Customers may initially come for the drinks but it’s so often the bartender they go back for,” he says.
Sam Gilani | Source: IG @thelondonboozehound
From ancient Mesopotamian taverns to medieval European inns to modernist lounge, from cosy hole-in-wall pubs to luxury cocktail bars, bartenders are responsible for each guest’s experience. The owner of an establishment depends on each bartender making that connection with their patrons.
“One of the things I truly admire about bartenders is the genuine soul, spirited attitude, unwavering passion, and tireless hard work they bring to their craft. It’s more than just making a drink - it’s about creating an unforgettable experience. This is something I witness everyday with my bar director, Refaat Ghostine,” enthuses Marcelino Abou Ali, co-founder of Marcelino’s Boutique Bar in Providence, Rhode Island and Boston, Massachussets, USA.
Guests agree. While science stands behind the creation of the drinks, the guest experience is artistic, a dance involving multiple layers.
Marcelino Abou Ali | Source: https://www.providenceonline.com/
“What I appreciate most about bartenders is the cultural and artistic experience they create for me as a guest, a multi-sensory pleasure for my soul while they serve me a delicious drink. For me, the art is mostly in their movements during the mixology process, the way they communicate and present the cocktails, culminating in my enjoyment of the cocktail. All the senses are pleased - the taste of the drink, the visual of service and the drink itself, the storytelling and communication, the smell of the ingredients and finally the touch of a cold glass that melts in a warm hand. This incredible atmosphere created by bartenders soothes the soul,” describes Katarina Smikalova, a bar guest in Bratislava.
As the profession of bartending evolves, cooperation is becoming ever more important. An even stronger industry results when each individual bartender is supported by their peers, when they share experience, knowledge, and skills among themselves.
“I highly value creativity and the ability to collaborate among bartenders, as it continuously pushes this segment forward and elevates our work to a serious level. Such bartenders support innovation and excellence in the craft while building a sense of friendship within the industry,” says Peter Marcina, bar manager of Mirror Cocktail Bar in Bratislava.
Peter Marcina | Source: Mirror Cocktail Bar
And what about those behind the bar? World Bartender Day is about appreciating bartenders, so what makes them feel appreciated?
“To be honest, I thought about the question for a while and wanted to say something like acknowledgement from my peers, but in the end it is the simple smile, satisfied nod, and gestures of happiness from our guests when you feel you made their moment and day better than it was before,” reveals Michal Dojcak, head bartender at Sky Bar & Restaurant in Bratislava.
Michal Dojcak | Source: IG @dojcak_michal
Adrian Michalcik, winner of Global World Class Bartender of the year 2022, agrees and points out how important appreciation is to the future of the profession.
“Genuine appreciation arises when guests acknowledge the artistry in each cocktail and value personal service. The impact we as bartenders have on others through presence and human connection is a very unique thing about our industry. The joy of hosting people and creating a welcoming atmosphere amplifies this sentiment, making me feel truly appreciated. Recognizing the dedication behind bartending not only validates the craft but also serves as motivation for future bartenders, inspiring future generations to continue in the bartending craft,” he says.
Adrian Michalcik | Source: Adrian Michalcik
Both bartenders’ answers show that their craft really is dedicated to service, to other people’s joy. So, this World Bartender Day, make sure to show a bartender genuine appreciation with a smile and word of thanks. A generous tip never hurts either.
