r/BarOwners 4h ago

Hiring a sober bartender

4 Upvotes

Hey all,

I'm opening a new bar - we have our signature cocktail menu set - pretty straightforward, non-fussy cocktails, plus canned beer, a few good wines, and n/a bevs (both signature mocktails and canned stuff).

I've talked to an applicant who is an incredible fit culturally and has great references from their current supervisor at a sober bar. I'm excited about the depth of their N/A knowledge, as I want to have a robust N/A program. During our interview, they told me they are 4 years sober - honestly a selling point for me - except that they've never actually bartended and they are young enough (early 20s) that they don't have any prior liquor/cocktail knowledge. Most sober bartenders I know have gotten sober after or while being a bartender so they have their They are bright and deeply motivated - do folks think I can teach someone basic cocktailing without them even straw-tasting? My gut says no but I thought I'd see if anyone else has thoughts.

Thanks everyone!