Gone are the days when a good memory and a strong pour were all you needed to thrive. Today’s young bartenders are a knowledgeable bunch. They’re diving deep into the world of mixology, exploring flavour profiles, and experimenting with versatile ingredients. We can thank social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok for pushing the need to explore more with flavours. Take Ryan, for example, the Assistant Manager at Birmingham’s Hare and Hounds pub. His story embodies the drive and innovation defining this new wave of cocktail creators.
Q: The Allure of the Mix: What initially ignited your passion for a career behind the bar at the hare and hounds?
A: After the pandemic, I was casting a wide net for job opportunities. But the moment I walked into Hare and Hounds for the interview and met the team, something clicked. The idea of crafting cocktails, being part of a dynamic hospitality environment, and soaking up the energy of live music – that was something I couldn’t resist!
Q: The industry evolves faster than cocktail trends these days! How do young people view bartending as a career path compared to older generations?
A: There’s a definite change in perspective compared to older generations. Traditionally, bartending might have been seen as a temporary gig. But young people today are recognising the potential it offers. They’re not just punching a clock; they’re hungry for growth and see bartending as a springboard for their careers, whether it’s a summer job or a long-term path.
Q: If you could conjure a cocktail that perfectly embodies the millennial and Gen Z experience, what would you name it and what sensory feelings would it evoke?
A: This cocktail would be a play on the sense of change and evolution from older to younger generations in the industry. Imagine a drink that transforms as you sip it starting with a bitter and slightly stale taste, mimicking the sometimes rigid traditions of the past.
But then, a twist! As you continue, the flavour evolves into something sweet and refreshing, reflecting the innovative spirit of young bartenders. Visually, it would be a head-turner, a science experiment happening right in the glass. To achieve this, I’d use a base of sweet rum instead of the classic Old Fashioned whiskey, for a smoother initial taste. A dash of angostura bitters would still be present, a subtle reminder of the original. And for that final flourish, a sprinkle of lustre dust would add a touch of whimsy and fun.
Q: What were some of the most significant challenges you faced as a young professional in the bar industry?
A: Some of the biggest challenges I faced arose in the early stages of my managerial roles. Starting as bar staff at the Hare and Hounds, I developed close friendships with many colleagues, which later became one of the most difficult aspects of managing. Striking a balance between managing friends, keeping everyone happy, and managing expectations proved extremely challenging, especially during the holiday periods when I had to rely heavily on them. Putting people you care about in positions that they struggle with wasn’t easy, especially when they were friends.
However, I always tried my best to remind them that I am always there to support them in whatever ways I can, and I learned to tailor my management style to individual needs as well as company requirements. By showing respect, I earned it in return, rather than expecting it like some managers do.
Q: What do you think is driving the trend of more young people choosing bartending as a career path instead of pursuing traditional office jobs?
A: I think Young adults today prioritise happiness and fulfilment in their careers, and bartending offers both of that. For those looking for a quick summer job, it provides the freedom to enjoy their days while earning a good living. Students, a significant portion of the younger demographic, find the hospitality industry a perfect fit with the flexibility to study during the week and work weekends. Compared to traditional office jobs, bartending offers a breath of freedom, flexibility, and the chance to interact with others.
Q: Shaken, not stirred, but definitely life-changing! We all know young adults are #blessed with wanderlust and a thirst for adventure. What impact does pursuing a career in bartending have on the personal and professional development of young people?
A: Bartending throws you into a whirlwind of characters! You meet everyone from the regular Joe swinging by for a quick one and grumbling about the weather, to the up-and-coming musician fresh off a gig, bursting with stories from the road. It’s crazy how many people you get to chat with that you’d never bump into otherwise. Talk about expanding your horizons!
Plus, you build a ton of confidence and real-world smarts along the way. It’s not just pouring drinks, you know? You pick up a ton of new skills – mixing cocktails, reading people, handling pressure – as easy as learning your ABCs all over again! And the best part? You learn from the old pros who know the bar business inside out. They spill all their secrets, and then you get to pass them on to the next batch of summer newbies, which is pretty cool and helps you develop some leadership skills in the process. The list of perks just keeps growing!
Q: Is Bartending just a pitstop, or a potential launchpad to bigger things?
A: For many young people, bartending initially is a temporary gig, a way to earn a quick income while dealing with studies. However, for a wide number of our staff here at Hare and Hounds, the experience usually evolves into something much more lasting.
THEY DEVELOP A GENUINE INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY AND RECOGNISE THE POTENTIAL FOR CAREER PROGRESSION. SOME GO ON TO BECOME TEAM LEADERS AND SUPERVISORS.
Picking up skills that they didn’t even think about and realise the potential of hospitality is far bigger than what we all think. The nature of the industry means that a lot of staff come and go over time, but the good thing is, that means amazing opportunities for those who stick around. Just like me! I went from barely knowing how to pour a pint to teaching the whole management team the ropes of running the place.
For those that do move on to something new, their CV can be filled with so many transferable skills; leadership, money handling, communication, team building and so many more and I think that’s why over the years more and more younger people are changing from 9-5 and opting for bar life !
“EXCUSE ME I ASKED FOR NO ICE”
Of course, the path of a bartender isn’t all glitter and garnishes. Long hours, demanding schedules, demanding customers and the ever-present temptation of free cocktails. However, the rewards are undeniable. For young individuals seeking a career that’s fast-paced, stimulating, and allows them to express their creativity, bartending offers a unique opportunity. The rise of young bartenders signifies a vibrant shift in the industry. Their passion, knowledge, and dedication are shaking up the status quo, leaving patrons with a more personalised and exciting experience. So, the next time you step into your favourite bar, raise a glass to these young bar stars.
Follow Hare & Hounds on Instagram @hareandhoundsbrum
For More Food and Beverage Article Click Me
Banc Magazine Issue III
