Authentic Bartending School

i was choosing between Authentic and NYC Bartending School, and decided on Authentic only because it was cheaper. I had read online that nobody cares if you went to bartending school but I wanted to do it anyways, so decided not to spend as less as possible. the size of the classes are nice, kept quite small so everyone has a station behind the bar. however, the bar itself is poorly stocked (glass, fake fruit, fake ice) and the soda gun only has one button that works which is leaky and sprays everywhere. it isn't a big deal unless you are really picky. my main issue with Authentic is their inconsistency. they have all the liquor you need to know, but just filled with coloured water that doesn't work for layered drinks. making students clean up is obviously our responsibility, BUT they also have "clean up day" which of course they would never tell you. once, i spent one and a half hours cleaning in the morning, and then my afternoon class was cancelled for an unknown reason. that was a wasted day, and that day cost me more than $100. also, the staff. you don't get the same instructor all the time, so it depends on your luck. some are really great, i absolutely love jonathan, ace, kelly, and melissa. however there are some that are incredibly disrespectful, rude, and not understanding at all. if you don't excel, even if you are a complete beginner, they will be very intimidating and crap on you. one instructor to run from is mercedes. she's known for being a complete bitch. she will talk about you with other staff members while you are in the room, or just is always gossiping. huge superiority complex even though she seems to know the least out of all the instructors. she needs to be fired ASAP! Pros: one of the cheapest of the NYC schools Cons: poorly stocked, instructors inconsistent more

On the recommendation of a friend,I checked this school out a couple of months ago.I had talked about being a bartender for years and finally decided to look into it.The first thing that stood out was how professional they were.I also felt like I was learning something about bartending from my very first appointment.The classes were highly informative.They also allow you to practice constantly any day that the school is open,which is seven days in all.I am happy that I just graduated,but I will miss the environment.Also,job placement is proficient.I have four interviews set-up already,and just graduated this past friday. Pros: great instructors Cons: classes are typically full more

I had an awesome experience at Authentic.The staff was very friendly,and attentive to every students needs.Not only did we get practical everyday situations to learn from,but every Friday,which was a testing day at the school,there was a constant supply of work related opportunites presented to us by their staff.In just two weeks that I was there during their job lecture,I watched students offered everything from bartending jobs(mainly private parties,lots of private parties),and even modeling shoots.Two big guys were even offered information on night clubs that were looking to hire bouncers as well as bartenders.One of them got a job at a busy spot doing both! My friend and I attended the classes together,and we were referred to an energy company that was in need of independant consultants,by one of the staff at Authentic.I attended a company overview in mid-town,and started working with them just two days after I completed my bartending classes.I made back my investment for the bartending classes within my third day.The best part of all is that I was getting paid excellent money just from working from home.Let's face it,any opportunity that is a legitimate way to earn an income in today's ecomomy is an excellent thing! My friend got hired at a popular sports-bar near Yankee stadium yesterday,and I have two bartending interviews tomorrow.Thanks again to the Authentic crew! Pros: very attentive staff,lots of assistance Cons: school could use a slight make-over more

I have been interested in bartending schools for over 5 years now.I have worked in a very stressful corporate banking environment for over 10 year.My stress caused me to take a serious look into bartending and I visited several schools in the manhattan area.I found out that some schools are not licensed by the Department of Education,and are quick to tell you that they are an employment agency,so a school license is not relevant.I contacted the Dept.of Education and was told this is far from the truth.After many disappointing visits at several different schools,I went in for an appointment at Authentic.They were the most informative,and seemed to be much more interested in me.I left there knowing that I made a sound decision.Although I had my mind set on not making a decision that day,I couldn't help it and signed up for the classes while I was still there.Because of my hectic work schedule,I attended their weekend classes.They were also,one of the only schools that offered a weekend schedule.My first bartending job was two weeks after graduating.I was working at two different comedy clubs,owned by the same people,three nights a week.I have not laughed so much while being at work a day in my life prior to my bartending endeavors. Authentic Bartending I wish I started this years ago when I first considered this industry. PS: " the money I earn bartending is equal to my full-time income in banking,plus 25%!" Pros: very warm,and caring staff.classes available 7 days a week Cons: school could use a touch-up,or a slight face-lift more

I must say I did not think I was going to enjoy attending The Authentic Bartending School.At first,I was a little intimidated because I had never bartended before,and my cousin had gone to another bartending school,paid 900 dollars,and to this day,still was never sent on 1 job interview.After checking out numerous schools in New York,the folks at Authentic,seemed to be the most on the ball.I watched them spend meticulous time training their students.I even observed an instructor taking his time after he had already put his coat on,and was leaving the school because his classes to teach had ended,come back into the school to cheer-up and work with a female student that failed her written test.Kelly,you are one compassionate dude!I graduated,and already had a job,after only 2 interviews in the field.I consider the guys at Authentic to be friends.Now,and forever! Thank God they exist. more

The school was by far the best hands on training class I have taken in years!I must say I did my homework when I started looking into bartending schools.The first school I went to was on 29th sreet around 8 or 9th avenue.They never bothered telling me the total price over the phone.When I got there,I understood why.The total cost was 895.dollars!I am sorrÝ,but for a 40 hour,2 week course,this is a financial robbery.The people were also very sales-oriented,and pushy.I also went to another school on 8th avenue near 39th or 40th.As soon as I walked in,I felt like I was there to get a massage.Although they were polite,all they were interested in knowing was,did I check out their website.I was not interested in the fact that their claim to fame was,"we use real ice",and "we have 2 seperate classes".For some reason the "advanced class"was on the 5th floor,of a five floor walk-up.Also,there were no students in the broom-closet,they called a classroom.Yes,it was a "prettier"school,but also very expensive.795.dollars!Authentic was my answer.The classes were inexpensive,only 595.although it wasn't the best looking,or the most pretty,during a recession,and the fact that it was a friendlÝ,easy-going environment,It was well worth the time,and money.I would rather hang out in a grunge bar with real,down-to-earth people who care,than over-priced,to-hell-with you,obnoxious,care nothing about you,5-star phonies,any day.Oh,by the way,Authentic's job placement rocks!I was working on 57th street in mid-town,at a busy,upscale lounge within 2 weeks of leaving Authentic.Thanks again guys!Stay well. more

At first I was a little skeptical about bartending schools. Paying a good chunk of money when I'm trying to make money seems off. After checking around at a bunch of schools, the choice was easy. Their competitors prices were higher and did not offer what Authentic did. I even had a friend who took classes at another bartending school and didn't get much out of it so they came to Authentic with me and took the test and got a7%. I couldn't believe after they paid another school and took Authentic's test they failed....badly. Well she retook classes and we both came out of Authentic with flying colors : ) We both were able to land a job within one week of graduating and I'm finally making the money I've always wanted to!! Pros: best money spent! Cons: wasting my time checking out other schools more

I came to Authentic not knowing what to expect,and found their staff to be very friendly and helpful.They took their time with the students,and understood that we were all new.I think what sold me on their program is that they were very upfront with me,and did not promise me that I would get a job making 10,000 dollars a night within a week,the way that another school tried to convince me of.They did tell me that if I had confidence in my abilities,and could commit to learning,showing up for class,and practicing,that I would have a great chance of getting a job that I would want.Well I am happy to say that I graduated within 1 week.I also got a job at a busy lounge in mid-town,and have not made less than 300 dollars a night.By the way,I referred my cousin,and girlfriend to the school,and both of them completed the course and are working.One full-time in City-Island in the bronx.The other near the South Street Seaport.Thanks Authentic! more

Came here to answer a job ad, but it's not a job, it's a school. Classroom is hot and stinky. No thanks. Cons: misleading advertising come-on more

I am very happy that I chose to enroll in authentic's training. I finished my training at the end of January and became certified as a bartender. I had a great time in classes. The instructor were extremely helpful. They're experienced bartenders that make class informative as well as a fun experience. I learned to mix a wide variety of drinks and learned all the skills i now use daily at work. With the help of Catherine in Job Placement I was interviewing within the first week of being certified. She worked with me one on one for 2 weeks till i found employment. I have no doubt, if and when I am ready to change my place of employment, the directors and job counselors at authentic bartending will be just as helpful as they were the first time around. Pros: helpful instructors and real placement more

Authentic bartending school was a great place to jump start my career as a professional bartender. I took the 2 week program and learned a lot. I also attended "barnight" its when we go to a real bar and make drinks for costumers, i believe that's what gave me the extra boost of confidence, and there is an instructor there with you just in case you need help with anything. A week before graduation i got a job, and I went there with a lot of knowledge and confidence. JZ more

Having been a graduate of Authentic Bartending School myself, I can personally verify that the school is 100% legit and delivers what they promise. I was floored when I landed my first bar job in the heart of Manhattan (Times Square!) one week after I graduated. The amazing tips and advice offered from Catherine in job placement as well as the directors are top draw!. Times are really tough right now to say the least but they still manage to come through which is more than I can say for the other schools I checked out. Thank you Authentic for everything! more

I graduated Authentic still feeling unsure of myself. I don't really know if that helps but I really thought that I would walk out of class and find a job. I now know that a lot of establishments don't hire fresh out of bartending school students, and I tried to call today on two different numbers and got the machine on both lines. Why is there no one available to take my call? Please don't get me wrong, if there is a school for bartending in NYC this is it (I did my research), I just don't feel the after graduation support that they promised. I am heading into the city today, because one of the instructors asked me to, but because nobody answered the phone I don't know if they will be there, and it is an hour one way. Listen you will learn how to mix, and pour over one hundred drinks, and all the instructors are competent bartenders. However, I still feel that you could get this kind of training on the job, and that this just might be a waste of time and money. I had fun. I learned how to tend a bar but I need more than that for $600. I actually tried to sign up for TIPS training which is included in the class and they told me that it would be at least six weeks before I could take the course(I thought it was included in the one/two week course.NO) and that I couldn't even sign up yet. All in all I feel discouraged. The class is fun and seriously informing. If you want to be a bartender this just might be the edge you need, but it is a lot of money and so far I really see no promise. Pros: Fun classes and instructors. Convenient practice and refresher classes. Cons: Costly, Hard to get ahold of, Discouraging. more

So, my sister and I finally agreed that we'd do a bartending course to become certified (but she had to find the school). Who doesn't need quick cash these days? As the foot-soldier, she shortlisted a couple of schools. With a few recommendations from friends who'd attended Authentic, we agreed to make appointments to go in. From our initial research, Authentic offered more than their higher-priced counterparts. But we were sold after the first meeting with one of the school's directors. Aunthetic is run like efficiently like 3 things: a school, a business, and a bar. A triple-feat, but one well done! Karen (the school's director) was receptive and professional and insightful. There was absolutely no sales pitch involved at Authentic & we were encouraged to make our decision on our own time. Her attitude was the deal cincher- so was the price, the lure of job placement, and their committment to your excellence-lifetime refresher courses. And this was no idle rhetoric, I saw past students constantly while there on my 2 week course. The training was intense, relaistic and fun, mixing "drinks" with coloured water did wonders for my confidence. The instructors were amazing and as varied as the drinks you learn, but their individual styles really help you achieve your goals (Faye is still my favourite, wink wink). You're going to learn essential tips from each of them, and this is going to be what sets you apart from your competition, the stuff you learn that's not written in the text you get as part of your material. I mean sure there are shortcomings, the place needs a minor nip & tuck here & there, but it's being worked on, & the text needs some revision, but writing in some recipes aids your retention, so that for every step backward there are like 150 steps forward! There are timed & untimed drills, attentive ears in & out of the classroom, endless willingness to answer and re-answer each question asked, more than you can dream of. It's the REAL DEAL PPL! more

I've wanted to be a bartender since the first time I saw that Tom Cruise movie Cocktail (back when Tom Cruise was still cool)! But I wanted to do it right. I visited all four accredited bartending schools in the city but Authentic was the choice for me! Why? The people, absolutely 100%. They didn't pressure me into giving them money like another school did, the instructors are awesome, and months after I finished my class they still remember me when I come in to visit! The classes are fun and friendly. The opportunity to work at a real bar while you're taking classes is a huge advantage and their job placement service has an actual person who will work with you and help you out, not just a list. And it's actually one of the least expensive places around. more

they are the best because they take you out to real NY bars to work at while you are still a student. Nobody else offers that. Their job office is very impressive, their price is the cheapest, and I felt they were the most honest and legit. Pros: professional. Real bar training more

training at other schools is "like training behind a real bar", but training at Authentic IS training behind real bars. And Authentic is fully licensed by NY state. And they have real job placement(I'm working at Jeckle & Hyde, making good money), not re-cycled newspaper ads. There's only one Authentic school in NY as far as I'm concerned, and they don't charge you for all their hype. Their price is the best available. Pros: real training in real bars! No lies on their website or in their offices. Best price Cons: nothing. totally satisfied. more

ONLY school where part of the training takes place at real bars. You work next to your instructor, waiting on real customers, and that's something that no amount of classroom hours can compare with Pros: price, staff, real experience gained, resume service & JOB PLACEMENT more

just passed my exams, and I'm into the rsume/job placement process. What a great program--fun, informative, and well-organized. I already have experience behind a few bars thanx to Authentic's "on the job training" program, and I'm ready and confident Pros: classy and professional, nice staff, entertaining, INEXPENSIVE Cons: ---- more

I've dreamed of learing to bartend ever since I was 16. I FINALLY had the time to go 2 summers ago. I searched around, and asked around, and visted different bartending schools here in NYC, and decided to go with Authentic Bartending School. They are the best priced, they looked to be very professional, and they are the only ones that didn't PUSH me to sign up, and they offer life time support. You can take the classes as much as you need, you can take refresher courses at any time, you can come and practice, practice, practice as much as you'd like. And there's always a counselor willing and ready to help you with any questions you may have. I LOVED every class, and every day that I had at Authentic. My favorite instructor was Adrienne, so was AWESOME. The instructors are bartenders themselves, and I feel that adds such flavor to the course. They gave us real life examples in class, I loved that. Today, I am enjoying bartending, and miss going to class at Authentic. It was so much more than I could have ever expected or dreamed of a bartending class. I was very nervous but very excited about learing to bartend, and Authentic made it that much more of a wonderful memory for me. Pros: Hands on, great schedule options, lifetime support more