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San Francisco School of Bartending
Categories: Education Specialty Schools Education Adult Education Specialty Schools, Adult Education [Edit]
944 Market StSte 410
(between 5th St & Cyril Magnin St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
Neighborhood: Union Square
(415) 362-1116
Announcement
Find us at our new location 944 Market St. Ste. 410
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sat-Sun 10 am - 5 pm
86 reviews for San Francisco School of Bartending
86 reviews in English
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Review from EJ C.
Honolulu, HI
12/11/2011
Thanks SFSOB!
I am a graduate from July this year and I just wanted to say that I am now a
bartender at the hottest Karaoke bar in Waikiki Hawaii called Wang Chung's!
I owe my skills to the school. Prior to attending the training, I had very little knowledge in bartending. I chose SFSOB over all the other schools in town for its high ratings by reviewers and for its excellent reputations. When I asked some of my classmates back then why they chose to attend the school, they all agreed that it was the best in town for its training and job resources.
Shortly after I graduated, I found a part time job bartending for an event. I was so excited because it was my very first bartending job and I totally loved it ... not to mention the huge tips I received.
At first, some of my friends in the industry were trying to discourage me from wasting my time and money in receiving training because they insisted that I could learn it all on the job. Well, My goal is to become a professional bartender and I knew that bar backing until I learned the ropes would take a long time. Plus picking up bad habits from other bartenders was not in my agenda. I wanted to learn this trade properly from actual professional bartenders/instructors.
Now as a bartender, I am so proud that I attended training because when I am out to bars and clubs, I see so many bartenders with poor skills in pouring and serving. I did not want to be that one barback who stood out with third class skills.
Graduating from SFSOB provided me with an excellent reference experience. It is the most prestigious school of bartending in San Francisco and I'm very proud to have completed the program.
Now I get to enjoy working with people, networking, hosting and singing...while bartending! How awesome is that? Plus,our bar (Wang Chung' Karaoke Bar) has the highest ratings on Yelp and Google for its quality, customer satisfaction and enjoyment in Hawaii. I'm very proud of this because although our location is tucked away in an alley, people find us online or through word of mouth no matter what and it's packed every night! Hope to someday see you all again. Come down for a vacation and stop by and ask for me... I'll make you guys my famous 'to die 4- Keylime Pie' cocktail.
EJ Castro -
Review from Savier M.
Updated - 12/7/2011
I said I would re-review and I am not one to skimp on my word...
SFSOB, like the bar industry it compliments, breeds douchebags. Be ready to witness high levels of suckitude from this school and/or any bar you may work at. Good character is not a leading trait in this industry but boasting -- OMFG boasting -- is like a constant sex coo from a hooker who frequents your apt. block... You will hear the most conceited motherfuckers, talking about themselves ALL THE FUCKING TIME! "SHUT THE FUCK UP!"
The school did lead to work in the service industry as a bartender but I was too picky with where I wanted to work and that did hamper my search at times. Don't be picky with your jobs. Serving food, barbacking, cocktail serving, catering, and etc. can all lead to being a full on bartender. Gaining trust with your employers is huge, especially if you aren't coming into industry with much experience and your resume is basically a hot fart.
Luck was and still is a crucial component to doing well for me. None of the employees at SFSOB are job fountains but the connections with other students and a good resume are definitely effective job search tools.
If I were to reflect on the experience positively, I would say it was a great way to initiate my drive for working in the industry, but not a bonafide career booster or some lofty shit like that. Come for the thrill, enjoy the chase, and then go home and take a dose of reality.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/21/2011
I can be a fairly mute individual if life permits but the recent years of post-teen life have kick… Read more »
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Review from Shiho F.
Carmel by the Sea, CA
11/24/2011
Good place to learn basic bartending if you are bored and have nothing better to do. Price was steep when I attended in 2004 but class size was small... I think I was the only one... private lessons baby.
You don't need to go to bartending school to get a job in bartending... I don't think it really helps unless you are applying to work on a cruise or want to show your certificate off when you move and try to work abroad. But I did it for shits and giggles at t the time since I wanted to learn the correct way to make a few cocktails. I think I've learned a lot more on my own in the years since I attended but it gave me a solid foundation and for that I thank them.
I didn't ask them for help with job assistance although I think you could ask them to try and help you, not sure if it would do any good during this shitty time to find a job but luckily I don't have to deal with that.
My advice is to work at a solid restaurant and work your way to the bartender and or if you are hot and skinny (ladies) just go to Vegas and become a bartender or cocktail server on or off the strip and you can walk home on a shitty day with $500 cash.... how do I know? I have friends that work 3 or 4 days a week and make 4 to 5K every 2 weeks... must be nice! -
Review from Jennifer W.
San Francisco, CA
9/26/2011
First off: SFSOB pays super close attention to their Yelp page. If you ever write anything bad about SFSOB, they will do whatever they can (which admittedly isn't very much) to make your life difficult. They totally review themselves on here too, so take a lot of what you read with a grain of salt!
This school is a waste of time and money. Their job placement program is an absolute joke. Almost every establishment they list is not actually looking for any help and is completely confused as to why anyone would think otherwise.
Some of the staffers are ignorant and homophobic - expect to feel really uncomfortable if you're a gay male or be creepily hit on by the interns if you're an attractive female. The one intern with the earring and the spiked hair just winks really obviously. Over and over again until he decides you've noticed. It is uncomfortable for everyone involved.
Shawn has a really overinflated ego and can't really figure out a non-condescending way to teach - if you want to work at gaudy and lame bars like Infusion, be prepared to suck up to him hugetime. He'll try and sell you on overpriced tastings and his expensive advanced mixology courses. You should just go to the Library at Bourbon and Branch or something instead. V and the Cruise Boat guy are both pretty cool, but the interns are hilariously sketchy and incompetent.
Most of the drinks included in the curriculum are incredibly stupid and would probably only ever be served in obscure fratty bars.
There are tons of hidden fees built into your tuition - you are basically forced to buy their overpriced flashcards. Before you are "allowed" to apply to work for their affiliated caterer, you have to buy their professional bartenders kit.
You're better off spending that money on liquor and just messing around on your own - pouring colored waters is not a substitute for actually making the drinks. If you're worried about style, just watch your favorite bartenders mix or go through YouTube videos. And if you want a bartending job?
This is what got me mine:
http://www.jeffreymorg...
This review got filtered for some reason? -
Review from Lorrayne L.
Oakland, CA
5/23/2011
I was given a challenge over the weekend. A challenge to write just as awesome of a review as S_. But I'm not the competitive sort. No, really. Hokays, so you don't believe me. Fine then.
But truth be told, S_ wrote a fantabulous review just now, and I wholeheartedly believe that you should read his. Just scroll down. He goes way into depth, and has more experience and insight to lend you. My review will be brief.
I discovered SFSOB whilst browsing the internet a few years back to send the X through. He loved alcohol and loved making drinks; why not become a bartender, I had thought. He loved the program and the school. Now I know why.
With the economy crashing and our state officials threatening heavy budget cuts, I started to feel like I needed a back-up plan just in case my job got cut. A girl's got bills to pay and mouths to feed, after all. Plus, with my planning to return to school next year, bartending part-time would be a perfect way to balance out a heavy class load, as I'm prone to do when schooling. Even schooling, I'll still have mouths to feed and bills to pay. The line of work also falls succinctly with my personality; I'm of the friendly, flirtatious sort, and I love getting to know new people, as long as they know their boundaries.
Discovering that S_ was of like mind and want, we both quickly jumped on the bandwagon and signed up for classes. The monies spent on these classes are more than worth it. Actually fairly inexpensive compared to other schools (remember, I researched this), SFSOB not only has their shit straight, they offer you WAY more educationally than any other school can. And that's mainly because of the resources they have at their disposal.
But let me put it plainly to you, dearest Yelpers. If you're hungering for some bartending education, Shawn, who teaches the evening classes at the school, is the one you should sign up with. Period. No ifs, ands or buts. I'm telling you, not suggesting it. Shawn is extremely knowledgeable in the subject, and great fun to listen to as he lectures. He's never boring. Not only is he a professional bartender, but he studies the chemistry and history of it in his other life. How many bartenders can tell you off the bat the chemical properties and reactions of a drink based purely on scientific measurements and study? Not many, that I can assure you. And how many bartenders can go back in history and quote you the profile of a single drink, stemming from the 1800's? Again, not that many.
Shawn also has connections that not many other teachers can offer you, even at the school. He even had one guy who's the assistant to the foremost rare wine expert come in and give a lecture on wines for us. How amazing is that?! I learned so much from both of them my head is still exploding even after graduation. In addition to this, we're given the opportunity as students and alumni (by the way, once you graduate, you have a membership with the school for life) to attend and work SFSOB Live. SFSOB Live is where once a week, students get to work behind a real bar serving real people real drinks to gain experience and practice for the real world. This by itself has GOT to be the single best thing about this school. Name another school that does this for you. Go ahead, I dare you.
I also want to make sure that I give a shout out to all the interns Shawn had - Chris, Christina and Dave. Not only are they all extremely competent at what they do, they're super sweet and patient with us as they help us learn our crafts as best we can. They guide; they don't yell, they don't patronize. For that, I give you three my wholehearted thanks for helping me throughout the class. You guys rock!
So if you're thinking about bartending, or even just learning the craft to pour at home for friends and family, I strongly urge you to go to SFSOB, and even more to make sure you have Shawn as your instructor. The investment and return you get is priceless. -
Review from Jordan P.
San Francisco, CA
8/4/2011
I took the 2 week 35 hr certificate course and I had a blast. This was a lot of fun. I had V, Tim, and Kristin(?) I learned like 113 drinks and some useful tips & tricks of the trade. I nailed the tests at the end so i can't really say they fudge you through if you don't hack it. Their job placement info is useful but not fantastic.
This class was a good distraction from Grad school and a nice intro to an employment opportunity. I'm glad I did it and I'm glad I can use their resources from now on. -
Review from Zoey R.
Berkeley, CA
1/3/2011
Once a week I meet up with my parents for dinner and pub trivia. We're a pretty competitive team; everyone has their own talents. My talent? History, popular culture, music, oh... and alcohol.
Say what?
Yeah, that was my mom's reaction too.
You see, this past spring before receiving my degrees from UC Berkeley in History and Political Science, I first graduated class valedictorian from the esteemed San Francisco School of Bartending, with a degree in Mixology. If that isn't enough, I then moonlit as a bartender for a small club in San Francisco -- all the while behind my parents' back.
Until, that is, 'Potent Potables' was the theme for our weekly match-up of trivia.
"What is the most widely produced bourbon?" -- Jim Beam.
"What does VSOP mean?" -- Very Special Old Pale.
"What is the name of the liqueur flavored with blackthorn berries?" -- Sloe Gin.
We won first place and a case of beer that night.
But it's not just about trivia. The San Francisco School of Bartending is a real school for bartending and mixology. They provide you with the tools, knowledge, and know-how to become professional bartenders. Add a dash of live practice and a shot of real bar experience, shake, pour, and serve -- it's more marketable than my four-year college degree from Berkeley. -
Review from Chris Y.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 5/18/2010
*Review for their Job Placement Services*
About time for an update since it's been 3 months since I graduated. The placement coordinator, Kristen, was very helpful when I asked her to check my resume. Being a former bar manager, she gives you the 411 on how to write a smashing resume to catch the attention of a prospective employer. Thanks to Kristen, my revised resume received more hits than my original one. It's regrettable to say though that their online employment database is a wee bit slow on job leads and the ones already listed can easily be found on Craigslist.
Since graduating from SFSOB I've worked a few gigs here and there for friends and family. But I kid you not.....if you want to make a serious career out of bartending in San Francisco you HAVE TO HAVE TO HAVE TO be in the good graces of the comically unfunny Napoleon aka WOOFY. I've been to several interviews already where they asked me, "do you know WOOFY? He's a good friend of mine." Yeah, I didn't get the job (lol) and yeah he probably bad mouthed me when they called for references but whatever (no, I didn't list him as a reference). I try my best not to laugh out loud when I hear his name. It's like when everyone's stifling their giggles because one poor soul isn't in on the practical joke that's about to occur.
So remember kids - you have to like him or pretend to like him if you want to land a bartender job in the city. Thank god I have a full-time job already because I don't know if I could live with myself for incessantly stroking someone's ego. In essence, if he doesn't like you he'll bad mouth you just like he did in class on Day 1 when he referred to Ashley G's review dated 7/6/2008 (I have two witnesses who were there with me). But then again, why am I acting surprised? LOL.
Oh, and I also saw him again at a Margarita Contest. Not surprised that he TOTALLY ignored me since my last review and didn't even try to make amends. How professional.
SFSOB is still the best though. Do it.
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If A.B.C.D.E.F.G.H.I.J.K.L.M.N.O.P.Q.R.S.T.U.V.W.X.Y. Z
Is equal to 1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20 .21.22.23.24.25.26
Then HARDWORK = 8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%
And ATTITUDE = 1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%
Thus ASSKISSING = 1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 127%
So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that whilst hard work will get you close and attitude will get you there, it's the asskissing that will put you over the top.
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edit: i wish some of ya'lls would share whatever you're smoking so I can write a positive review about him too! *end sarcasm*2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/19/2010
An absolutely phenomenal school! I can't think of any other place where you can learn AND have fun… Read more »
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Review from Arthur R.
San Mateo, CA
10/19/2010
I've been meaning to write this review for awhile, but felt compelled to write after reading 'madalyn's' over dramatized review.
I graduated from SFSOB in late September, and let me tell you...the whole entire experience was a BLAST. I had more fun in those 2 weeks than I've had in a long time. The school itself is super conveniently close to Powell Street Bart, in a very nice/safe building in a 'happening' part of the city. The actual facilities mimic a real bar, from the ice trays to your speed rail, to the role playing that we do, to the friendships that you make.
And the instructors?? Well, I've only shown up in the evening class which is run by Shawn. Shawn is a hilarious character who knows how to drill information into your head in a way that allows you to have fun at the same time. He is also SUPER approachable and a fun guy to have as a friend.
Speaking of friends, I've made about 2 dozen from the two weeks I was in the class and every Wednesday night that has followed since I've graduated, while mixing drinks at Azul lounge. And when I say friends, I don't mean just facebook friends...these are people who've Ive hung out with and spent nights at their house. There is a real culture and comradery amongst bartenders (and bartending hopefuls).
Since graduation I've made my way to Azuls every Wednesday night with the same group of friends I've made in class and we serve drinks and dance until last call. Sometimes I try to show up for a refresher course too, but can't seem to manage my time right.
This is where i want to clarify something about refresher courses and the time behind the bar at Azuls. I feel that both of things should be seen as privileges, NOT rights. I've tried to show up at 8:30pm for some time behind the bar and sometimes there's just no room, and if there is room I already know Shawn has about 20 newbies he's teaching and my time for interrupting him with questions is best adhered to AFTER class. This is why the WEBSITE says its BEST TO CALL IN AHEAD OF TIME BEFORE YOU SHOW UP FOR REFRESHERS. So if I show up unexpectedly to I get mad when Shawn doesn't have time for me?? NO way.
When you meet Shawn you'll learn 2 things. One, he is a hilarious guy...and Two, he takes his mixology VERY seriously. If he calls you out for crossing your arms or putting your hands in your pocket, its not because he's being mean, its because in the REAL WORLD of bartending, those things are BIG NO-NO's and he doesn't want you to pick up bad habits.
Also while we're talking about privileges, Azul's is also a privilege. If you show up any later than 9:40pm...you're getting a late shift. And if you're there to support the bartenders...please order some drinks!!! We have a limited amount of time behind the bar and it goes to waste if you don't test us!!
Anyways, to sum it all up...it was AMAZING and the friendships I made will last a LIFETIME. I've gotten more interviews in the two weeks after SFSOB than I did in the last two years with my BA in Tech.
Don't hesitate for a minute...do the damn thing, and take the plunge. YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT. -
Review from David P.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/15/2008
This is my second edit to my original review, and I'm sad to say, I have to reduce my star count to 1...from the original 5 I gave it a few weeks ago.
Sure, the course was fine and taught me a lot. I do feel like I became a solid, smart, well-rounded, skilled bartender. But WHAT is the USE of knowing how to properly shake and pour a martini or how to make a Rusty Nail when I'm not implementing these skills?? I did NOT take this course just for fun - I took it because they boasted a job placement program that was above and beyond that of their competition.
Once I graduated, I relied on their job placement program and coordinator to help me find a position. The school has their success stories plastered all over their walls (literally), so I thought that I wouldn't have much trouble finding something AT LEAST part time. They certainly bragged about their connections that, apparently, no one else has. No problem then, right?
Yes, problem. For the first few weeks after graduation, I was on a wild goose chase, taking buses, trains and walking all over the city from bar to bar, hearing the same thing from every single bar manager: "Your school said they were hiring? Weird. We haven't been for a while." Odd, since these bars were featured on the SFSOB job placement website as "actively hiring." I wasn't mad though - just a bit annoyed. I didn't expect to land a job my first time out, but I thought I would at least be going to bars that were ACTIVELY HIRING.
After I initially reduced my star count to 3, I was immediately contacted by the job placement coordinator AND the head of the school, apologizing profusely for my troubles. Apparently, the guy they had hired to update the listings hadn't been doing his job properly for some time now. What kind of management is that??? They assured me that they have great placement rates, and their students usually find positions quickly after graduation. Sounds great, but how about at least helping me find a bar that is ACTIVELY HIRING so I have a CHANCE to get hired?
Then, to add insult to injury, I was PROMISED a job by the job placement coordinator the other week (verbatim, he said "You essentially have this job. Just call xxx and you'll be good to go") and, unbelievably, I get a call back from the bar manager telling me that the open position had been filled.
I was offered no sort of apology, but, instead, a crass note from the placement coordinator telling me that the reason I was having problems finding a job is because my "frustration" was coming across during interviews. HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE WHEN I'M NOT EVEN INTERVIEWED TO BEGIN WITH because I keep going to bars that AREN'T HIRING??? He also wrote (verbatim - I'm cut and pasting from his actual email):
"Just put some stuff on your resume about experience, like a year somewhere and get a job."
Apparently, I now have to lie on my resume because these people who PROMISED that they have such a wonderful job placement program can't put their money where their mouth is. I thought the whole point of taking this course was so that I DIDN'T have to lie on my resume and so that the job placement coordinator could use one of his connections to find a bar manager who would be willing to hire me, understanding that the course is equivalent to experience of about a year behind a bar.
BEWARE - FALSE LEADS AND FALSE EXPECTATIONS. I'm furious and $400 short. I feel duped and particularly saddened because I did have a good time during the program. But if I had known that I would have ended up wasting literally WEEKS of my life running around the city under the SFSOB's direction only to hit dead end after dead end, I would have just taken an online course.
I have bills to pay which I am now weeks (soon to be MONTHS) behind in thanks to this mess.
Disappointed. Discouraged. Disheartened.Comment from Mark H. of San Francisco School of Bartending 5/21/2009
Ultimately, there are many variables that are out of our… More » -
Review from Meghan S.
San Francisco, CA
2/1/2009
I had a blast at SFSOB. On top of learning over 150 drinks and obtaining important bartending skills, I met great people and got real behind the bar experience.
I took the night class with Shawn, which was more than worth it. One Friday we had an in-class wine lesson with one of the most intelligent wine guys in the city. The next Friday we had a hard core mixologist/bartender come in and teach us some awesome cocktails.
Basically, if you're going to take a bartending course, go to SFSOB. You can continue attending classes after you've graduated and can get behind a real bar for practice before you're tossed out into the bar world. Worth the money! -
Review from Jill K.
Rockville, MD
6/9/2006 1 photo
I've been meaning to Yelp this forever! Please read this if you're considering bartending school or are even a bit curious about it...
I turned 21 at the end of my junior year of college, and I thought that bartending would be an excellent way to spend the summer.
Since I had just caught up to legal drinking age, I really didn't know much about the industry. I was under the EXTREMELY false assumption that I could go to bartending school and just start moonlighting at some hot bar in SF (I know, I know, I was young and naive, but I digress...). I looked at a bunch of the websites and decided on National Bartenders School. I liked what they said on the website:
"On site job placement staff
-We assist you with your resume.
-We help set up the interview.
-We assist you in the proper way to present yourself for the interview.
-We will help you get into the place of your dreams. "
Sounded ideal to me!
I went through the 2 week, 40-hour course with Ralph, who taught us well. He told us great anecdotes and we learned a whole bunch about liquor laws, not to mention helping us learn to crank out some great drinks. By the time the course was finished, I could do 12 drinks in under 5 minutes (4 orders of 3 drinks each). Although the cost is no longer on the site, I remember it costing somewhere between $500 and $600. I thought it would be worth if I could be bartending all summer...
I was super confident upon my completion of the course, and immediately started handing out my resume all over. Most bars basically looked at it and said "Don't call us, we'll call you."
I called the school to ask for assistance but they basically said nothing and offered no kind of help. It was like "umm sorry you're having a hard time... anyway, keep us posted," or something of that nature. I felt totally left in the dust!
As I went to more and more bars and talked with bartenders about their background, not ONE that I spoke with had actually gone to bartending school. They had all worked as barbacks and/or waiters/waitresses in the establishments and were trained on-site. This was infuriating, because I shelled out all that cash and they promised assistance with job placement.
My 2 cents? If you want to bartend, hang out at some bars you like, talk to the bartenders, see how they got into it, ask for their advice, make friends, seek out a position as a barback. I learned the hard way, and am $600 the poorer for it. But hey, at least I can make a mean cocktail! :)
People I've talked to who went to other bartending schools in the area report very similar experiences... they were also promised job placement assistance and found little to no support. Bummer, huh??Listed in: Don't Touch With a Ten Foot…
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Review from Lauren L.
San Francisco, CA
4/11/2008
I was born to be a bartender. My grandma owned a bar in the boonies of Pennsylvania and worked there until her 60s. As a child when I used to visit, I'd hang out and play shuffleboard with the toothless locals. My mom continued on the tradition and was a legendary bartender in San Jose where she met my dad. Therefore, not only is bartending in my blood, I owe bartending for my very existence. So naturally, when I graduated from four challenging years at Berkeley, I put my degree to good use -- and became a bartender.
If you want to go to bartending school, GO HERE. Even if you've never considered it, or if you think, as my mom put it, "Bartending school is for losers -- just get a job at a bar and learn as you go", I still recommend it.
My class was full of fun social people which helped make the early morning class bearable. Lee, my instructor, is the epitome of cool, and extremely knowledgable and helpful. Tia (I think she left) was really helpful with getting you interviews and informing you of potential jobs. Mark, the owner (I think), is also a great guy, and he hooked me up with a temporary catering job before I even finished the week-long program.
You learn a ton, but most importantly, you gain confidence and inside tips on how and where to look for jobs. You can go back and brush up on your skills whenever you want and they will always send emails about new learning opportunities (like the weekly chance to bartend at a real bar for a few hours).
Best part is - you'll get a job quickly and pay back the cost of the school in a night. -
Review from Charlene R.
Oakland, CA
3/5/2008
Re-posting, as I am locked out of my first yelp account...
I had so much fun at this school. My teacher, Shawn, was awesome. I graduated back in Feb of 2006 and I still keep in touch with Shawn and my classmates. I now bartend at a busy club and everything I learned at the school I use now. I highly recommend the school because one of it's core concepts is to work on speed and accuracy of mixing drinks. It's an important concept when you work in a busy bar. The more drinks you make, the more tips you get! If you are looking to attend a bartending school, go here. You'll love it! -
Review from Michelle L.
Pleasanton, CA
7/31/2008
I found this place on Google and looked it up on Yelp and it is all the great things that people say it is. I came here for the night class after my day job and am currently in my 2nd week of the course and already giving it 5 stars. They give you a first day trial for you to decide if you like it or not, and that roped me in...thank goodness because I've met and become great friends with my diverse and absolutely wonderful classmates that will last long after this course is over. I suggest talking to your classmates and initiating going out after class or on breaks together because it makes the experience so much more fun.
When you get there, you might feel like it's a drill school, but they give you plenty of resources (in and out of class) to learn the history and background of different alcohols and drinks as well as good-practice habits and ways to remember everything you do. Bartending takes a lot of memory and patience!
Our class had Jessica, Leslie, and Shawn as our instructors, and they have all been great. You can't really say one is better than another because they're too different to compare lol. I can tell you though that they are all very encouraging and knowledgeable. There is a post below about Shawn not being that great, but I totally disagree. He was moving through material a bit quickly one day and one girl didn't understand something and she said it's okay move on, but Shawn made sure she understood before moving on. That is the sign of a great teacher and he really wants us to do well out in the real world. He's also very engaging and funny...some people just have to lighten up. Keep in mind that it's hard to teach effectively to such a diverse crowd of faces that come in every week, but all the instructors get 5 stars.
As for the price...yea it seems a little bit pricey...but only at first. You get all your money's worth in the material you learn and resources you get in the class. And THEN, I'm sure you go out and make it all back after a few nights. I'm saying this, and I'm a student not making huge money and I took the class for kicks not even expecting a consistent bartending job since I leave town in a month. And I still think it's worth it. You can go learn without the class, but it'll probably take you years to learn through trial and error what I have in two weeks. -
Review from Eric W.
San Francisco, CA
3/21/2008
Great School! Great Teachers!
Props to Shawn during my night class. He was always fun and full of energy.
They taught you ever thing you needed to know to get your foot into bartending. Shawn even offered a intro wine class. Some great points:
- Free practice time even after you grad
- Helpful job placement by Teia
- Flexible class times
Great Experience! -
Review from Albert B.
CA
2/25/2009
This school, Shawn, and the rest of its laid back teachers changed my life. Im saying this in hindsight after taking the course in July of 2007.
Several months later Shawn implemented what I called a "real bar internship" where alumni were invited to practice at a real bar every tues or weds night. The class taught me the basics of technique, presentation, and recipes. The "internship" taught me everything else. But only because I showed up every single week for 6 months... until I got the job AT THE INTERNSHIP.
Since then i've met people from all around the world, flirted with some of the most beautiful and interesting women, and received an income that supplemented a fabulous lifestyle.
I don't bartend anymore because im moving on to start an online business (greatly contributed to my experiences bartending). But its good to know that the school is always there waiting for me if I want to regain my skills and live that life all over again. I still receive the great newsletter emails and internship invites. And I know that there will always be a fresh network of bars looking for new hires.
Don't listen to anyone who says that they don't guarantee a job after you graduate. Nothing in life comes easy, even if you are a "hot female aspiring bartender." If you are willing to spend the money, time, and effort, you can get what you want. And this class provides a venue for that.
In the end, bar managers and owners want speed and money, and this school provides the best foundation there is in the form of a grandiose network of bars, bartenders, and fellow students. And then there's the internship.
There's a saying in the "industry:" Once you get in, you're in.
But you have to work to get it. -
Review from Jessica C.
9/22/2010
I've had a great experience. I am a small girl and I haven't been that strong, social or liquor-knowledgeable; however, I do feel more confident about bartending coming out of the two-week course and have been offered a gig on my last day of the course.
All of the teachers are industry experts and have different styles of teaching. Due to my schedule and commute from the South Bay, I was in the afternoon class most of the time (1:30-5 p.m.) and got to attend an evening class (6-9:30 p.m.). Shawn always teaches the evening class, Yael I believe teaches the Thursday and Friday morning and afternoon classes, and then it fluctuates weekly between Tim, Lee, Chris and V. If you want, you can call the school to check who's going to be teaching in the coming days.
Yael is very disciplined and will encourage students to make mistakes inside the classroom so they will know how to deal with similar challenges in a real bar. She explains things in a methodical process and will take time to help if you're having problems. Shawn is equally generous with his help; when I got the last shift at Azul (where students learn to work behind a real bar with customers), Shawn was thoughtful in making sure I get some experience and so he told me to make three orders of two types of mixed shots. In the process, he taught me how to work faster and smoother to make those shots. I haven't had as many opportunities to learn from the other teachers due to my schedule, but again, they're all masters of the trade and have a great sense of humor. Some have poker faces, but that's part of their craft and charm.
I will be going to go back to the classroom and to Azul, as students can take as many refreshers/solo practicing as they want for free after finishing the course. I'm excited for what's to come! -
Review from Brent D.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2010
In search of: Bartender for a private party.
Found!
The San Francisco School of Bartending referred me to Jess Jenkins, a recent graduate. Jess served a wide variety of drinks to my 35 guests over the course of several hours, working tirelessly, exuding professionalism, displaying joy in her work, taking good care of the guests and pouring a wide variety of tasty drinks.
Jess communicated with me by phone and email for the month ahead of time, and her preparation proved fruitful. Despite the small kitchen and guests congregating there (don't people always wind up in the kitchen at your parties, too?), Jess mixed all sorts of drinks from a list of 20 or so she was able to make based upon the contents of my liquor cabinet. The Sidecar was unexpectedly popular! The Mojitos and Cosmos flowed freely, and I saw more than a few Lemon Drops. She poured me a Margarita that was perfect.
Reasonably priced, and a perfect fit for a festive night.
[If you contact the San Francisco School of Bartending, they will connect you with a recent graduate or two who fit a basic description. Thanks, SFSB for connecting me with Jess!] -
Review from Tina N.
Daly City, CA
11/30/2010
bartending school is believed to be a good way to "get your foot in the door." that is true because it is all about networking and it's definitely not impossible to get hired as a bartender right off the bat. you meet a lot of people, acquire a lot of information and the practice nights at Azul Nightclub are helpful and fun but unless you are in a hurry to land a bartending job without having to work your way up, I don't think this is worth your money.
if you have time to spare, start off as a server somewhere. you're getting paid because it's A JOB and it's your way of learning the trade and "networking." unless you want to pay $400 or so to attend classes to learn what you can learn on the job while GETTING PAID for it, then sure this school could be an investment for you. bartending school doesn't look impressive on a resume, it's what you have to offer as part of any job title and your willingness to work for that position. I would say yes only if you have extra money to spare and can talk up a storm with Shawn to help get you in somewhere.
I attended this school based off the reviews on yelp and trusted that it would be an asset to my resume and that I would learn something useful. I am a bartender now not because of this school but because I actually took the time to look for job postings on Craigslist (the same thing they do for their students on their "job database") and found a place that was willing to train me. they told me bartending school does not count for experience but I'm sure every manager thinks differently. in this case, they wanted to make sure I could work efficiently and well, rather than doing it at a bartending school or for free at Azul Nightclub. I now work at a bar of a fine dining restaurant at Santana Row in San Jose with no prior serving experience. I was trained in 2 weeks at most and was getting paid for it.
so in all honestly and looking at the ratings/reviews of this school, I felt that these ppl on here have probably befriended Shawn and he helped them get in somewhere, ie: you're paying to hopefully get connections. I attended weekend classes and was never able to make it to his classes (I had a different instructor, Varinia who is a very sweet girl & knowledgeable). when I attended Azul, I could tell favoritism played a roll in choosing who got to bartend first, at the better hours. I mostly got to bartend when everyone was gone or done drinking. I've tried starting a conversation with Shawn several times, and I would say hi to him if he ever popped into my class but he would fail to remember me. so to notice how consistently his name shows up on many of these reviews, this just leads to my opinion.
the knowledge, practice & "experience" can make the job easier for you once you land it but is it really worth $400? I really don't think so. everything requires work and putting yourself out there. If you have extra money to spare, then sure this could be an investment for you to network, meet ppl of the trade, have fun/socialize and if lucky, have them refer you somewhere...I just felt the need to stop by and put in my 2cents after reading many of these reviews. I hope for those who are considering attending that this was helpful in giving you another side of opinion about this school. -
Review from Sydney L.
San Francisco, CA
10/17/2006
tried their free intro class. Students get behind bar with containers holding colored liquid and make drink the very first day.
Before you know it, you will be shoving ice, pouring from two bottles at the same time, counting beat, reaching for fake cherry and shoving straw in that taquela sunrise.
I feel like a scientist in lab conjuring up different chemicals but hey, give people what they want! -
Review from Mariel C.
Oakland, CA
7/2/2007
Ok - my turn....I read a few of the reviews; can't get through all of 'em yet. But I agree ~ it was a wonderful experience and like another person mentioned "no joke"
Ev'rybody raves about Shawn, but I gotta tell you, Jess was my instructor and she's awesome ~ she's extremely friendly, always supportive and very on top of her game!
I too have had little luck landing a p/t bartending gig, it's kinda like the "entertainment industry "all about who you know and who's gonna give you a chance but I wouldn't trade what I've learned. Better to have some knowledge then to think I could bartend without SFSOB! -
Review from Hye L.
Berkeley, CA
4/19/2007
AMAZING LEARNING EXPERIENCE!
I took weekend course for 5 wks
Each saturday 11-5.
Cost: $295
Shaw taught my class and he makes it serious but fun at the same time! He also has great connections with employers in the field, so he would help you get a job after you get your certificate and some skills.
If you wanna start off fresh, this is where you would go! -
Review from Kellie O.
Phoenix, AZ
9/3/2008
So, you want to be a bartender?
Well, this is the chance you've been looking for.
I'm taking the two week course to refresh my skills
and to learn new drinks.
I haven't been behind a bar for over 10 years and now I
feel like I never left!
** LEE ** ** LEE ** ** LEE **
\ (^O^) / \ (^O^) / \ (^O^) /
She is a superstar instructor. A true professional with 25 years +
in all aspects of the business. Two weeks with her is invaluable.
She tells you like it is and what to really expect
as a professional bartender. Her funny and cool style keeps the
information in your head and at your finger tips!
She teaches what you REALLY NEED to know to make money $$$$$
and be successful and HAPPY in your new career.
This course is worth every cent and is sure to pay for its self quickly.
Thanks to SFSOB job placement, I've gotten a bartending job already!
I had a job offer, and interview and start date
by the middle of the 2nd week!
WHY? SFSOB has an amazing reputation. Bar owners/ managers
want grads just because they have been trained right.
GO FOR IT! IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
Oh, ask Lee about a 'French Margarita' !
Kellie -
Review from Britt H.
San Francisco, CA
3/9/2009
I took this class purely out of interest, and definitely got more than I bargained for- in a good way.
When searching for a bartending school, I looked at a couple others, but went to the free introductory class at SFSoB and decided to enroll right there. It is a bit pricier than some of the other schools, but you get what you pay for. You want crap, go to to ABC. You want an excellent bartending school with incredible instructors, go to SFSoB.
I took the evening class with Shawn, and absolutely loved it! He is an incredibly talented instructor and brings a lot to the class. His classes are funny and I learned so much. Also, he puts on a wine night and cocktail night, which are both amazing. I particularly enjoyed the cocktail night because it gives you a chance to taste different specialty cocktails. You will not be disappointed.
Also, the Wednesay nights at Azul are worth it! You can sign up to get behind a real bar, or if you bring 5 friends, then you can go behind without signing up. Putting into practice the skills you learned is extremely important, and this is a great opportunity to do so.
Thanks SFSoB! -
Review from Joyce L.
San Bruno, CA
8/19/2007
I had shawn who is AWESOME!! he truly cares about his students and how much fun they are having but also that they are learning. We had a subsitute teacher for two nights, mary ann, i was apprehensive at first because shawn was so great, but she was just as awesome in her own way. Shawn goes out of his way for his students, really trying to get us all the most experience possible! I was skeptical at first because I didn't want to "waste" my money, and regardless of whether I get a job or not, I'll always have this skill!
job placements real koo too, their database is alright, but if u really go in, teia will help you with your resume and give you tips!
updated: i actually have a job now, but i'm not sure whether or not that's because my interview went well or because I had a bartending certificate, both of which i think are pluses..but i had to look for this myself through craigslist, which i later noticed the job posting was also in their job search database...as for experience, nothing is the same as a real bar, but the make it pretty damn close -
Review from L J.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/3/2008
Thank you SFBOB staff! You all are rockstars and have gotten me great gigs since completing the course! I feel so confident in my drink making skills, and I can't believe how many drinks I know how to make!!
I had 3 friends recommend this place to me before I started. I was deciding between this school and another in the city. After talking to 2 people who worked here, I just had a good feeling about it. Everyone I spoke to was super cool, and talked to me like they already knew me =)
I fealt at home from day one, and know that I have a home (because I can go back as much as I want). Awesome experience. If you don't live close you need to commute!!!!!!!! This school definately works and will get you well above and beyond to where you want to be veteran bartender or newbee!
Keep up the good work! -
Review from Lauren V.
San Francisco, CA
5/3/2009
I loved my experiance at the SF School of Bartending!
Not only did they teach you how to pour drinks, but they taught you the skills of the trade. I'm looking forward to putting all my new formed skills into getting a part time job as a bartender.
Other things I love about the class is that they give you the chance to get behind a real bar at Azul, they help you with job placement and give you a chance to come back and refresh whenever you'd like.
Also the instructor I had was amazing! She was a great teacher and made everything really fun. (Katie who teaches the Sunday class). We also got to meet one of the other teachers Shawn who was also very good at teaching and informative :).
Overall I must say. Money well spent. -
Review from Jordan S.
Villa Park, CA
4/30/2010
I'm just finishing up week one of SFSOB's two-week curriculum. This place has continued to impress me each and every time I walk in for my afternoon class. I go in every day looking forward to a new and exciting challenge. The teacher's are passionate and intimately familiar with the profession of bar-tending, from pour techniques and mixology to flair and customer service.
No one is ever bored! Like today I learned from Yael (My favorite instructor so far, just behind Chris) the skinny on how to pour the perfect cocktail. (By the way, all the instructors are actual veteran bartenders about town, you can check her out at Rex Hotel for example!) Shawn is also a really great instructor with tons of energy and a genial personality; I really enjoy learning from him. The video cocktailer and speed pours are always happening, so the entire time you are practicing building drinks and developing muscle memory, speed, and fluidity. I always leave feeling like I've been there the whole day when in reality my 'shift' was only 3.5 hours. By the way, the place is like a real bar, you walk out feeling as though you've just been in some sort of simulator, it's really fun.
I can't wait until next week when I get to go to Otis Bar as part of an agreement with SFSOB to actually stand behind a bar and bar-tend to REAL PEOPLE! Okay, I'll be honest, I'm nervous, but I know I'm well prepared to make Screaming Orgasms and Slow Comfortable Screws with the best of 'em. I can't WAIT to take the Advanced Mixology course and learn some of the theory!
Also, if you are going to take their 2-week course, basically budget your time so that you leave a good hour on the end of every class. There are a ton of after-class workshops where they explain essential, need-to-know info for you. For example I'm really excited to participate in the wine tasting by a pro sommelier this Friday. -
Review from Somaly B.
Castro Valley, CA
1/21/2008
SFSOB was a great experience. I took the evening course monday-friday for two weeks. I work full time during the day in Oakland and went straight to the school afterwards without trouble..I think the class was from 6:30-9:30 pm. I suggest bart-ing it because parking is ridiculous.
There was a lot to learn and there was never a dull moment. Our instructor Shawn kept things fun and interesting and I loved my classmates! Definately made some cool friends.
Although the real world in any job is slightly different from school, the things I learned from the course really helped me be better prepared. The job placement program is pretty awesome too. It's been months since I've completed the course and I still get emails from SFSOB in regards to jobs available!!! -
Review from Scott C.
San Francisco, CA
2/28/2007
I completed the 2 week course a couple weeks back under the guidance of instructor Shawn- who I highly recommend. This 2 week comprehensive course is great for anyone interested in the service industry. Additionally I would recommend it to anyone who has behind the bar experience to sharpen there skills and learn tips and techiques from instructors who have done it for years.
Bartending is a great skill to have on any resume and with this class you can feel good about listing it. Worth every penny and I would be happy to elobarate on my expereice further with anyone who is interested.
-Scott Caroen
Project Coordinator & Floor Manager
Infusion Lounge -
Review from Carlos K.
San Francisco, CA
1/14/2009
Five stars is an understatement. Being your classic "overachiever" (Stanford and Morgan Stanley), I did a lot of research before deciding that this was the best school in San Francisco. The legwork proved to be true...
After the one-week class (and one flair class), I started a company called "Stanford's Bartender" which bartended for private events on the University campus. Over the last two years I was an undergrad, I ran 30+ events and made over $10,000.
SFSOB gave me an amazing education and the class truly "paid off". Much love to Shawn, who continues to teach me tips and tricks (three years later), and has helped me get behind the bar at some of SF's best clubs! -
Review from Brent W.
San Francisco, CA
4/5/2010
Came here with my friend Chris.(see last review) If you wanna learn to bar tending for fun or career this is the school you must sign up for. Not a very big school. Its about a 150 max cap room. For about $400 you can take the 2 week course of the 1 week accelerate course. Each class runs for 3.5 hour including break. Every Wed you get the chance to tend bar at a real bar. Otis on Maiden Lane. Friday nights Shawn takes you out to good clubs or bars.
Who you'll meet.
Mark - Director of SFSOB. Never talked to him but seems very chilled.
Kristen - Employment Advisor. Blond girl with the piercing.
Timmy - Morning Instructor. Check out him out at the Dirty Trix Saloon over on Clement st & 5th. Customize his own shirts! The most real to Earth instructor. Sweats like crazy tho.
Viviana (aka V) - Afternoon Instructor. She can tell you the secrets of bar tending. Ask her about a$$hole tax.
Shawn - Night Instructor. Great instructor wonderful mixologist. Hes knows his places around SF. Funny guy too.
Yale- Very nice little flirtatious i think but can be feisty woman. Shes very detailed.
I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone remotely interested in the food and beverage industry! You will meet/ make new friends with alot of cool people too. -
Review from Robert M.
San Francisco, CA
6/16/2010
I graduated from SFSOB in March. I felt confident enough to get out there and apply for some positions. Within a month, I was working at a bar making great money.
I took the accelerrated course and there was a ton of information. Our instructor V was entirely gracious and helpful. So much of what she said didnt' quite stick until I was actually working and had the terriffic "ah ha" moment when I thought, "This is what she meant."
This is a great investment. If you have a good personality and are willing to work hard, you'll earn your investment back quickly! -
Review from Alan C.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/21/2009
I went to this school already for basic bartending and flair bartending, and last night I just attended the advanced bartending/basic mixology class. This is great for those who may already have experience bartending but want an extra edge in competition. Many believe this is important since San Francisco is under a mixology renaissance right now and traditional pour and serve may not be enough to cut it.
This class goes over a lot of things that aren't covered in regular bartending establishments (i.e. nightclubs and dive bars) that may be required for high-end lounges and restaurants. Techniques such as julep straining and speed jiggering and concepts such as stirring vs mixing are explained.
The best part of the class is actually one that I wasn't aware of until I attended the class, and that was the liquor tasting and the behind the bar experience. We tested the balancing of tastes (sweet only, sour only, and sweet and sour), and tasted the difference between single malts aged in French barrels vs American barrels. This bar used for the behind the bar experience was stocked with premium liquor such as Hangar One citron, Elijah Craig bourbon, and Vya vermouth. Also available were limes, oranges, and mint.
I highly recommend this class. The price was a great value since it came with a mixing kit (mixing tin/glass, a graduated jigger used in Clock Bar, julep and Hawthorne strainer, and a European mixing spoon with flat end) as well as the available premium liquor used in the second half of the class. Be sure you have a dependable ride home because these tasty drinks are hard to spit into the spittoon!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/24/2008
I took the course over a year ago, and within a week, I got a part-time bartending gig that on my… Read more »
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Review from dianne t.
Hayward, CA
2/6/2009
I decided to take a bartending class when I was drinking and that's what influenced me to become a bartender in the first place. I thought about what type of school to go to, and this place sounded pretty legit, I mean it might be kind of hard to even get that name San Francisco School of Bartending. Right? So I looked into it, and I spoke to Shawn over the phone and was really hesitant about joining but he convinced me that the first day of class was free and if I don't like it then it whatever because it's free.
Monday rolls around, I come in, find a spot. Started making the drinks and bam I was enjoying myself. It was so much fun. I had the afternoon class with Jake. Before I knew it, it was already 5 o'clock time to go. I paid upfront, of course you have to option of doing it in payments. I learned so much, enjoyed myself, met new people. Fun. Then that weds. we rolled around to azul to sign up to do a bar run there the follwoing weds. When I came up and around the bar that follwing weds, I was scared and nervous that I was going to f**k up those drinks, but after getting behind it, I had so much fun! Not so much fun drinking and trying to go to class the next day making drinks...so tired. BUt other than that it was a blast.
Best part about this place you can always come back to the school and touch up on making drinks or even sign up to get some hours at azul. Its great, the instructors are so nice and kind.
Glad I came to this school it was worth the money spent. Now I am on the hunt for a BARTENDING job. Woo WoO. -
Review from Jamie L.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2006
I sat in on the intro course a year ago because my friend wanted to check it out, not so long ago I signed up to take the program and here's what I expected:
- supplies and techniques
- access to equipment etc
- answers to my questions
basically the help I need to learn how to pour drinks and be confident behind a bar.
what I don't expect is being hand held in finding my first job. While SF school of bartending, like many other schools, offers help in locating people hiring, I would warn against anyone who thinks any school is the definite shoe in on a job, that's not how it works. I have been self-employed since I have been out of school and in many ways being assertive and pro-active is as important as how good your lemon drop tastes.
I don't know what it's like out there in the bar world since I havn't tried it yet. I am in the school to get information and training and I figure any help I get as far as getting a job is good, but I don't expect a lot, but then again I am very assertive and already have simply catering gig lined up so I will be pouring drinks already. overall I expect to run around and sell my personality as well as what I already know about bartending as a way to show...commitment to the industry I guess? don't know, I personally like the idea of working 1-2 nights a week only, but that's me.
Personally I am very impressed by the instructor Gretchen, she is very knowledgeable and energetic. the class times are also convinient: classes run three times a day, you can make up class if you want. this is not a rigid school- people here have own ideas on how they want to pass on the knowledge and it's a very friendly place, that I do like. I think part of running a good school is offering easy access to students, and SF school of bartending does it wonderfully. I feel learning at my own pace is a big deal for me.
soon I will be handed the sheet with employment leads etc. and meeting with the placement assistant to get my resume in line and get ready to face the barworld! ahhh! scary! or not, it's actually quite exciting. Private parties are fun but after a while I want to make Magaritas an cosmos, something harder than pouring vodka tonic all night long.
bottom line: holiday party gigs + future earning potential, totally worth the $300 and loads of fun too, in my opinion anyways. We are also given CDs and some help in resumes, and a good amount of graduate seems to have located bar job. I am amazed to learn that, seems that my own bar shift may not be so far away after all, but then again, I want to warn everyone that it takes initiative and work to land gigs, don't expect the school to do all the work for you. one tip is to stake out huge drinking days like nye when everyone is just scouring for bartenders, get in with that catering gig and get some experience! I know more than a few grads who will be pouring drinks this new years eve! -
Review from Jonathan L.
San Francisco, CA
2/12/2010
Great place to learn all the basic skills you need to work behind a bar or at home! The teachers are very friendly and super helpful. The classroom is very representative of an actual bar, with a full stock of glassware, soda gun, well, and all the other essentials of a bar. You learn useful things like how to twist a lemon, using a boston shaker, and also some cool bar tricks. Exercises are very realistic as you do lots of role playing (one student as a bartender, the other as a customer). Even after you graduate, you are welcome to come back any time (there's space) and practice if you feel out of touch. They also offer a weekly event where you can work behind a real bar.
Classes are flexible in the sense that you can take a one or two week class.
A bit on the pricey side but worth the cost.
Cheers! -
Review from Mister T.
San Francisco, CA
9/20/2009
I am writing this review to say how cool I think this school is. My girlfriend just attended end of July and already she has landed guest spots as well as a permanent position in the city. She has made it very clear that the school gave her the knowledge and the resume chops to land these gigs. Special points to Shawn for getting the trainees some real world experience at a couple different bars and for offering advanced classes to keep one in the game! I attended an event at Azul twice and it was a very well run training exercise.
This program does exactly what is advertised, and I have seen first hand results. Recommended. -
Review from saroj y.
San Francisco, CA
2/26/2008
We had our ladies night out at this place.
Jack was our teacher and we learned how to make cocktails for 2 hours...total fun :)Listed in: M&M
