What is a Cocktail Server?

Introduction

If you love working with people, enjoy a fast-paced environment, and have a passion for drinks, you might be interested in becoming a cocktail server. A cocktail server is a person who works in a bar, nightclub, or restaurant and is responsible for serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to customers. In this article, we will explain what a cocktail server does, what are the benefits and challenges of this job, how to become one, and what are some of the best practices and trends for cocktail servers.

A cocktail server is more than just a person who delivers drinks to customers. They are also:

The face of the establishment

They greet customers, make them feel welcome, and create a positive impression of the place.

The expert on drinks

They know the menu inside out, can make suggestions based on customer preferences, and can answer questions about ingredients, prices, or specials.

The communicator

They take orders accurately, relay them to the bar staff, and deliver them promptly. They also check on customers regularly, handle requests or complaints, and process payments.

The entertainer

They engage customers in friendly conversation, make jokes, and participate in special events or promotions.

Being a cocktail server can be a fun and rewarding job, but it also comes with some challenges. You need to have certain skills and abilities to succeed in this role, such as:

Physical stamina. You have to stand, walk, carry trays, and lift heavy items for long hours.
Customer service. You have to deal with different types of customers, some of whom may be rude, demanding, or intoxicated.
Attention to detail. You have to remember orders, follow safety and hygiene standards, and avoid mistakes or spills.
Teamwork. You have to work well with other servers, bartenders, managers, and kitchen staff.

If you think you have what it takes to be a cocktail server, read on to find out how to get started in this career.

What are the benefits of being a cocktail server?

There are many advantages of working as a cocktail server, such as:

Flexible hours. You can choose your shifts based on your availability and preferences. You can also work part-time or full-time depending on your needs.
Tips. You can earn extra money from tips, which can vary depending on the location, time, and quality of service. Some cocktail servers can make more than $20 per hour from tips alone.
Social interaction. You can meet new people every day, from different backgrounds and cultures. You can also make friends with your co-workers and regular customers.
Variety. You can work in different settings, such as restaurants, bars, nightclubs, hotels, casinos, or cruise ships. You can also learn about different types of drinks and cuisines.
Fun. You can enjoy the atmosphere of your workplace, listen to music, watch sports or shows, and join in the festivities.

Of course, being a cocktail server also has some drawbacks, such as:

Stress. You have to deal with high-pressure situations, such as busy hours, large orders, unhappy customers, or technical issues.
Irregular schedule. You may have to work late nights, weekends, holidays, or split shifts. This can affect your sleep pattern, social life, or family time.
Physical strain. You may experience fatigue, soreness, or injuries from standing or lifting for long periods. You may also be exposed to noise, smoke, or alcohol.

How to become a cocktail server?

To become a cocktail server, you need to meet some basic requirements, such as:

Education. You need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed some college courses or have a degree in hospitality, tourism, or related fields.
Training. You need to obtain a food handler card, which certifies that you know how to handle food safely and hygienically. You may also need to complete an alcohol awareness course, which teaches you how to serve alcohol responsibly and legally. Some employers may provide on-the-job training for new hires, where you learn how to use the equipment, follow the procedures, and perform the tasks of a cocktail server.
Experience. You need to have some experience in serving, preferably in a similar setting as your desired job. You can gain experience by working as a host, busser, runner, or server assistant in a restaurant, bar, or club. You can also take courses or workshops in bartending, mixology, or customer service to enhance your skills and knowledge.

To find and apply for cocktail server jobs, you can:

Network. You can use your personal or professional contacts to learn about job openings or referrals. You can also attend job fairs, trade shows, or industry events to meet potential employers or co-workers.
Create a resume. You can create a resume that highlights your education, training, experience, and skills as a cocktail server. You can also include any awards, certifications, or recommendations that you have received. You can use online tools or templates to create a professional and attractive resume.
Prepare for interviews. You can research the company and the position that you are applying for. You can also practice answering common interview questions or scenarios that relate to cocktail serving. You can dress appropriately and arrive on time for your interview. You can also follow up with a thank-you note or email after your interview.

What are the best practices for cocktail servers?

To be a successful cocktail server, you need to follow some best practices, such as:

Greet customers. You need to greet customers warmly and politely as soon as they arrive. You need to introduce yourself, offer them a seat, and provide them with menus or drink lists. You need to smile, make eye contact, and use positive body language.
Take orders. You need to take orders accurately and efficiently. You need to listen carefully, repeat the order back, and confirm any special requests or modifications. You need to use a pen and paper, a tablet, or a POS system to record the order. You need to suggest upsells, add-ons, or specials to increase sales and customer satisfaction.
Deliver drinks. You need to deliver drinks quickly and safely. You need to use a tray, a coaster, or a napkin to carry and serve the drinks. You need to place the drinks in front of the customers, announce the name of the drink, and ask if they need anything else. You need to avoid spilling, dripping, or breaking the drinks.
Process payments. You need to process payments correctly and promptly. You need to present the bill or check to the customers, thank them for their patronage, and ask how they would like to pay. You need to accept cash, credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, or vouchers as payment methods. You need to return any change or receipts to the customers and collect any tips.
Clean up. You need to clean up after each customer leaves. You need to remove any dirty or empty glasses, plates, napkins, or utensils from the table. You need to wipe down the table, chairs, and floor with a cloth and sanitizer. You need to restock any condiments, napkins, or menus that are missing or low.

What are some of the trends and opportunities for cocktail servers?

The cocktail serving industry is constantly evolving and changing. Some of the current or emerging trends and opportunities for cocktail servers are:

New drinks. Customers are always looking for new and exciting drinks to try. Cocktail servers need to keep up with the latest trends in drinks, such as craft cocktails, mocktails, low-alcohol drinks, hard seltzers, flavored spirits, etc. They also need to learn how to prepare and serve these drinks according to the recipes and standards.
New technologies. Technology is changing the way customers order and pay for their drinks. Cocktail servers need to adapt to new technologies, such as mobile apps, QR codes, touchscreens, kiosks, etc. They also need to use these technologies to enhance their service quality and efficiency.
New events. Events are a great way for customers to enjoy drinks in a social setting. Cocktail servers need to be aware of and participate in new events, such as happy hours, trivia nights, karaoke nights, live music nights, etc. They also need to promote these events to their customers and encourage them to join.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a job that is fun, dynamic, and rewarding, you might want to consider becoming a cocktail server. You will get to interact with different people, work in a lively atmosphere, and earn tips. However, you will also need to be prepared for the challenges and demands of this job, such as working late nights, dealing with difficult customers, and staying alert and focused. To be a successful cocktail server, you will need to have excellent communication skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and customer service skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do cocktail servers do?

Cocktail servers are servers who work in bars, lounges, or nightclubs. They take orders, deliver drinks, and provide customer service to the guests.

What is the difference between a server and a cocktail server?

A server is a general term for someone who works in a restaurant or a food service establishment. They can serve food or drinks, or both. A cocktail server is a specific type of server who works in a bar, lounge, or nightclub. They only serve drinks, usually alcoholic beverages.

What is the difference between a bottle girl and a cocktail server?

A bottle girl is a type of cocktail server who works in high-end nightclubs or lounges. They sell bottles of liquor or champagne to the guests who reserve tables or booths. They also provide ice, mixers, glasses, and other accessories. A cocktail server can also serve bottles, but they usually serve individual drinks or shots.

What should I know as a cocktail server?

As a cocktail server, you should know how to:

Take orders accurately and efficiently
Deliver drinks quickly and safely
Check IDs and follow the alcohol laws
Handle cash and credit transactions
Upsell drinks and specials
Deal with intoxicated or unruly customers
Work as a team with the bartenders and other staff
Maintain a clean and organized work area